UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
x☒ ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20142016
o☐ TRANSACTION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)
For the transaction period from ________ to ________
Commission file number 000-50385
GrowLife, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | 90-0821083 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
500 Union Street, Suite 810, Seattle,5400 Carillon Point
Kirkland, WA 9810198033
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
(800) 977-5255(866) 781-5559
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. o☐ Yes ý☒ No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. o☐ Yes ý☒ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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. ý☒ Yes o☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant 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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). ý☒ Yes o☐ No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o☐
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. (Check one):
| Large accelerated filer | o☐ | Accelerated filer | o☐ | Non-accelerated filer | o☐ | Smaller reporting company | ý☒ |
| | | | | (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | | | |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). o☐ Yes ý☒ No
As of June 30, 20142016 (the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter), based upon the last reported trade on that date, the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates (for this purpose, all outstanding and issued common stock minus stock held by the officers, directors and known holders of 10% or more of the Company’s common stock) was $74,452,264.$17,064,082.
As of September 30, 2015March 31, 2017 there were 902,116,4961,944,843,172 shares of the issuer’s common stock, $0.0001 par value per share, outstanding.issued and outstanding,
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The following discussion, in addition to the other information contained in this report, should be considered carefully in evaluating us and our prospects. This report (including without limitation the following factors that may affect operating results) contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange Act") regarding us and our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying forward-looking statements in this report. Additionally, statements concerning future matters such as revenue projections, projected profitability, growth strategies, development of new products, enhancements or technologies, possible changes in legislation and other statements regarding matters that are not historical are forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements in this report reflect the good faith judgment of our management and the statements are based on facts and factors as we currently know them. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and actual results and outcomes may differ materially from the results and outcomes discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences in results and outcomes include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" as well as those discussed elsewhere in this report. Readers are urged not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date of this report. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date of this report.
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| PART 1 | | 1 |
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| ITEM 1. | Description of Business | 12 |
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| ITEM 1A. | Risk Factors | 67 |
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| ITEM 1B | Unresolved Staff Comments | 1516 |
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| ITEM 2. | Properties | 1516 |
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| ITEM 3. | Legal Proceedings | 1617 |
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| ITEM 4. | Mine Safety Disclosures | 1617 |
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| PART II | | 17 |
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| ITEM 5. | Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities | 1718 |
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| ITEM 6. | Selected Financial Data | 2021 |
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| ITEM 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 2022 |
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| ITEM 7A. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk | 2629 |
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| ITEM 8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data | 2629 |
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| ITEM 9. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure | 2629 |
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| ITEM 9A. | Controls and Procedures | 2629 |
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| ITEM 9B. | Other Information | 2730 |
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| PART III | | 28 |
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| ITEM 10. | Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance | 2831 |
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| ITEM 11. | Executive Compensation | 3334 |
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| ITEM 12. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters | 4341 |
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| ITEM 13. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence | 4542 |
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| ITEM 14. | Principal Accounting Fees and Services | 4844 |
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| PART IV | | 49 |
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| ITEM 15. | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules | 4945 |
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| | SIGNATURES | 5450 |
PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
THE COMPANY AND OUR BUSINESS
GrowLife, Inc. (“GrowLife” or the “Company”) wasis incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware and areis headquartered in Seattle,Kirkland, Washington. We were founded in 2012 with the Closing of the Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation. We have authorized common stock of 3,000,000,000 shares at $0.0001 par value and 3,000,000 shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 were authorized by the shareholders. There is no preferred stock issued and the terms have not been determined as of September 30, 2015.
Our goal of becoming the nation’s largest cultivation facility service provider for the production of organics, herbs and greens and plant-based medicines has not changed.continues to guide our decisions. Our mission is to best serve more cultivators in the design, build-out, expansion and maintenance of their facilities with products of high quality, exceptional value and competitive price. Through a nationwide network of knowledgeable representatives, regional centers and its e-commerce website, GrowLife provides essential and hard-to-find goods including growing media, (i.e., farming soil), industry-leading hydroponics equipment, organic plant nutrients, and thousands more products to specialty grow operations across the United States.
We primarily sell through our wholly owned subsidiary, GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. In addition to the promotion and sales of GrowLife owned brands, GrowLife companies distribute and sell over 3,00015,000 products through its e-commerce distribution channel, Greners.com,GrowLifeEco.com, and through our regional retail storefronts. GrowLife and its business units are organized and directed to operate strictly in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws.
Overcoming Company Challenges
We grew throughare focusing on future success. In that regard, we believe that the hydroponics supply industry will experience significant growth and, as a series of acquisitionsresult, operating in 2012this industry has become highly competitive, cash intensive and 2013 leadingcustomer centric. However, we have plans to seven retail stores. In 2013 we expectedaddress these challenges.
First, the opportunity to grow throughsell both infrastructure equipment and recurring supplies to the following three key initiatives (i) expanding to 30 retail stores at an expected average annual revenue of $1.25 million with 12 stores in 2014 resulting in sales of $15 million; (ii) educating the investment community of theindoor cultivation industry is constantly increasing as demand for indoor cultivation grows across the United States. GrowLife believes the demand will continue to grow and more and more states and municipalities, including California enact rules and regulations allowing for more indoor cultivation activities. GrowLife continues with its multi-faceted distribution strategy, which we believe serves customers in the following manner: Direct sales to large commercial customers, retail in some markets for local convenience, and e-commerce via GrowLifeEco.com to fulfill orders across the nation from customers of all sizes.
Second, serving what GrowLife sees as an increasing number of cultivators has become cash intensive because of the need for large inventory levels at retail, extensive e-commerce online marketing, and supporting payment terms to large accounts. Currently, GrowLifeEco.com offers over 15,000 products, far beyond the 3,000 found in Greners.com, its former online store. This on-line website was expanded by the fall of 2016.
Third, GrowLife’s customers come in different stages from caregiver cultivators to 80,000+ square foot commercial operations. With the use of e-commerce, GrowLife endeavors to reach as many customers as possible in areas where we do not have stores or a direct sales presence. Last year GrowLife built GrowLifeEco.com, our new e-commerce website, that is optimized for mobile devices. GrowLife put web marketing in place to increase awareness, traffic and conversions.
GrowLife started the expansion of sales and store personnel and marketing efforts with the new funding vehicle with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. Chicago Venture is supportive in the expansion of the sales and marketing teams in a growing equipmentmarket. GrowLife is expecting growth in several markets, including California. GrowLife receives funding twice a month for such costs. As the personnel were hired late in the December 2016 quarter, the impact is expected to start in the March 2017 quarter.
GrowLife also considered the lack of capital access since 2014 and the new funding vehicles with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. Operations were significantly impacted during 2014- 2016 as a result of the lack of access to capital. GrowLife did not have cash to ship orders. With the addition of GrowLife’s new partners, we have access to capital and are growing our sales again.
Also, we recognize demand is increasing from small, aspiring cultivation consumers across the cannabis industry;country seeking to learn and (iii) engaginguse a joint venture investor willingcomplete indoor growing solution. To address this demand, we packaged GrowLife Cube, an entry-level offering for consumers to get hands-on experience with indoor growing. Although many still buy the components separately, we are working on developing videos and supplier tools to attract them to this one-stop shop program. Given the election results in California GrowLife Cube is expected to provide financial resources for acquisitionsgreater value and strategic investments. These three initiatives were expected to help position us as the leading supplier and participating investor to the emerging cannabis industry and were therefore announced and allocated resources with those goals in mind.
The retail expansion plan, starting in July 2013, was expected to maintain the pre-acquisition revenue pace of GrowLife Hydroponic’s earlier purchase of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“RMC”), and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, a Maine limited liability company (“EGC”), and generate sales of $5.5 million in 2013. For several reasons, GrowLife Hydroponics achieved 2013 revenue of $4.8 million. In addition, GrowLife Hydroponics opened two more stores in Plaistow, New Hampshire and Peabody, Massachusetts. This seven store expansion across five states exposed three issues with the retail expansion plan: (i) the cost of inventory, integration and ramp up in offsetting revenue was understated; (ii) the laws, policies and resulting customer purchase process across the five states varied greatly and lowered the expected economies of scale; and (iii) the competitive hydroponic supplier market lowered expected operating margins. The lack of financial resources to offset the operating losses from the retail expansion initiative necessitated a change of our plans.
An education initiative was formed where we engaged Grass Roots Research and Distribution, Inc., a market research and marketing firm, to study our 2013 plan, the emerging growth of the cannabis industry and estimate the possible financial impact to GrowLife and its valuation. Sets of reports were published and supported with GrowLife press releases to educate the new industry and generate greater awareness of GrowLife. While this initiative proved successful in 2013, we ceased to engage Grass Roots in 2014, after we changed our business strategy.
The third investor initiative was formed in November 2013, through the Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a joint venture, between GrowLife and CANX USA LLC (“CANX”). CANX would provide the financial resources for OGI to facilitate acquisitions and strategic investments. GrowLife issued warrants for 240 million GrowLife shares to CANX and CANX would provide up to $40 million in mutually agreed upon investments, $1 million in a convertible note and a $1.3 million commitment towards the GrowLife Infrastructure Funding & Technology (“GIFT”) program. GrowLife received the $1 million as a convertible note in December 2013, received the $1.3 million commitment but not executed and by January 2014 OGI had Letters of Intent with four investment and acquisition transactions valued at $96 million. Before the deals could close, the SEC put a trading halt on our stock on April 10, 2014, which resulted in the withdrawal of all transactions. The business disruption from the trading halt and the resulting class action and derivative lawsuits ceased further investments with the OGI joint venture.
Starting in June 2014 we focused on cost reductions with minimal revenue loss as our focus. The primary reduction in operating costs came from (i) streamlining non-profitable personnel, lowering expenses by replacing the Woodland Hills, Californiaspecialty services.
Resumed Trading of our Common Stock
headquarters with that of Seattle, Washington that serves more people at a lower cost; (ii) closing
On February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the unprofitable Peabody, Massachusetts, Woodland Hills, California and Plaistow, New Hampshire stores; (iii) relocatingOTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Greners e-commerce operation from Santa Rosa, CaliforniaFinancial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently taking the appropriate steps to uplist to the Boulder, Colorado store until a new Denver facilityOTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is set up; (iv) reducing full-time employees from 46 to 8 as of September 30, 2015; and (v) closing the Phototron subsidiary in California. While transition costs were paid out, the repurposing of company resources is expected to reduce our operating expenses and allows for greater market reach and efficiencies.
However, the challenges of operating a public company under the strains grey market trading and lawsuits, as well as limited access to investment capital kept the company lean. We also chose to convert about three months of inventory into cash. This reduced our inventory level from $1.8 million to $924,000 and lowered our gross margins to 16.5%. This conscientious decision was made to help us transition through this period. As for our $7.7 million of our general and administrative expenses, there were approximately $3.6 million in non-recurring/non-cash stock expenses, which resulted in net cash expenses at approximately $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.
We remain focused on hiring the best people to expand our direct sales personnel. These personnel are knowledgeable in using the most progressive growing technologies that fit our customer’s needs. Whether they are small-scale local cultivation facilities or large-scale regional cultivators, our customer service team recommends smart medium, cost-effective lighting and ventilation, and the right nutrients that are best suited for the crop objective. Our knowledge layer is strategic for the evolution of the indoor growing industry. Unlike an outdoor superstore, GrowLife serves the specialty cultivation business as indoor crops are designed to deliver multiple grow cycles with greater quality and yield not available in outdoor agriculture. Technologies will be available to provide our customers with a way to further tune their ordering process and crop development using their own experience.
Customer Insights
GrowLife has the unique advantage of working with many cultivators of all sizes across most states that have differing laws and policies for indoor growing. This advantage has given us insights into our customers changing needs. During the last twelve months we have seen a dramatic change in many key areas that required us to adjust our strategies even faster than expected. For example, we expected the retail business to be eclipsed by e-commerce and direct sales combined, however, we now see that each one is surpassing retail sales. While localized, on-hand inventory has a benefit to most cultivators; price, by far, is driving most purchasing decisions. Simply putting up an e-commerce website without a presence in the retail and direct channels is not enough to engage the leading suppliers. Therefore, it remains critical that GrowLife continues to execute its multi-channel strategy, albeit at a different composition.
The driving force behind the customer’s pricing pressure is not that cultivators are greedily seeking to increase their profits or capitalize on the expected commoditization of growing equipment and supplies. Instead, cultivators are quickly adjusting their business models to make a profit. Also, the innovation of optimized indoor growing equipment and supplies is keeping them from becoming a commodity. Indoor cultivation business models, whether they are organic fruits and vegetables or cannabis, have been based on supplying a premium priced crop to serve increasing demand. The dynamics where most of the volume produced is based on supplying a premium crop that is saturating premium demand means that the premium price will drop. Only 18 months ago, a 1/8 of a pound of premium cannabis was selling for about $70. Today, the same crop in the same market sells for less than half that price and the surplus that is being sold in the non-premium market is selling for about 25% of the price; in some cases, for less.
Our observations from customers reveal that the more sophisticated cultivators have made the business model adjust and most new cultivators have not distinguished the new price elasticity of demand. In the chart below, the demand line (green) for high grade intersected supply line (red) to define an equilibrium price point. As new cultivators entered the market they assumed that demand would increase for high grade and create what we call a phantom demand (gray) so that the increase in overall supply would lead to an increase in price (Pp). However, many reports support that the increase in supply stayed aligned with the original demand (green) and has led to the lower new price (Pn). The overall increase in demand that is commonly mentioned is not for high grade but for commercial grade, which is used for edibles and a less sophisticated palate.able.
narcoticnews.com/drug-prices/marijuana/
bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-06-22/this-survey-says-that-marijuana-prices-are-crashing-in-colorado
The cost of indoor growing, which included equipment, supplies, water, electricity, housing and skilled labor, requires capital. The risk and limited supply of the capital demanded a higher cost for the cannabis market than that of common fruits and vegetables. The cultivator has found themselves needing to pay more from their crop than expected and needing to sell at close to last year’s prices to achieve a reasonable return. Many customers have indicated that they were prepared to accept a 20-30% drop in selling price, but a 50% drop has created business challenges.
Another unanticipated issue is the separation of dispensaries (cannabis retailers) from the cultivation process. Cultivators now must market their crop to dispensaries that make higher margins, but have many supplier choices. This is leading to the segmentation between boutique premiums versus large commercial grade operations. Thus, the business model adjustments those cultivators are going through. Premium growers seek to scale in order to cover expenses and commercial grade cultivators must decrease prices or introduce quality production to win over dispensaries.
We are working with cultivators of all sizes, across all states at different stages; all of which are seeking to lower operating costs. Since resources such as water and electricity are limited and expensive, we help cultivators get more with less. Vertical farming has become a real and practical cultivation process for volume where a 20-by-30 square foot room that normally houses about 150 plants can now grow over 550 plants, almost three times more. Specially designed vertical lighting with 360-degree coverage and using 35% less power now delivers the necessary light with less heat, thus lowering the HVAC power demand. Finally, specially designed pots automatically control both watering and drainage efficiently. We have both the expertise and supplier relationships to help cultivators scale up with configurations like these.
Market Size and Growth
AsWhile there is a great deal of purchasing of indoor cultivation equipment for non-Cannabis cultivation, many of our investors have a high-interest in the direction of the Cannabis industry as it may directly affect GrowLife’s growth. Therefore, the following market information is provided.
Twenty eight states acrossand the country approve medicinalDistrict of Columbia currently have laws legalizing marijuana in some form. Three other states will soon join them after recently passing measures permitting use of medical marijuana.
Seven states and the District of Columbia have adopted more expansive laws legalizing marijuana for recreational use. Most recently, California, Massachusetts, Maine and Nevada all passed measures in November legalizing recreational marijuana. California’s Prop. 64 measure allows adults 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow up to six plants in their homes. Other tax and licensing provisions of the law will not take effect until January 2018.
Several legislatures in states recently passing legalization measures are debating regulatory proposals around the use and sale of marijuana. Massachusetts lawmakers are weighing bills that would lower the amount that residents can legally possess or place restrictions on retails stores. In Nevada, one proposal calls for businesses to obtain permits allowing for the public use of marijuana.
A number of states have also decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. Other states have passed medical marijuana laws allowing for limited use of cannabis. Some medical marijuana laws are broader than others, with types of medical conditions that allow for treatment varying from state to state. Others states (not shown on the map below) have passed laws allowing residents to possess cannabis usage, with different THCoil if they suffer from certain medical illnesses.
Our map shows current state laws and CBD compositions, cultivators purchase equipment and supplies from us and similar indoor supply companies. Therefore, as the cannabis market grows so does the revenue growth opportunity for us. Researchers from The ArcView Group, a cannabis industry investment and research firm based in Oakland, California, found that the U.S. market for cannabis grew 74 percent in 2014 to $2.7 billion, up from $1.5 billion in 2013. Today, 23 states plus Washington, DC have legalized cannabisrecently-approved ballot measures legalizing marijuana for medical useor recreational purposes. Medical marijuana laws recently passing in Arkansas, Florida and four states plus Washington, DCNorth Dakota have passed recreational use into law.yet to become effective.
We serveInformation is current as of January 30, 2017.
Source: www.governing.com/gov-data/state-marijuana-laws-map-medical-recreational.html
GrowLife serves a new, yet sophisticated community of commercial and urban cultivators growing specialty crops including organics, greens and plant-based medicines. Unlike the traditional agricultural industry, these cultivators use innovative indoor growing techniques to produce specialty crops in highly controlled environments. This enables them to produce crops at higher yields without having to compromise quality - regardless of the season or weather and drought conditions.
Indoor growing techniques have primarily beenis commonly used to cultivatefor plant-based medicines. Plant-based medicines because they often require high-degree of regulation and controls including government compliance, security, and crop consistency, makingconsistency. This makes indoor growing techniques a preferred method. Cultivators of plant-based medicines often make a significant investment to design and build-out their facilities. They look to work with companies such as GrowLife who understand their specific needs, and can help mitigate risks that could jeopardize their crops.
The ArcView report indicates that plant-based medicines are the fastest-growing market in the U.S., and conservatively predicts the market could be worth more than $10 billion within five years. Several industry pundits including Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN believe that plant-based medicines may even displace prescription pain medication by providing patients with a safer, more affordable alternative.
Indoor growing techniques, however, are not limited to plant-based medicines. Vertical farms producing organic fruits and vegetables are beginning to emerge in the market due to a rising shortage of farmland, and environmental vulnerabilities including drought, other severe weather conditions and insect pests. Indoor growing techniques enables cultivators to grow crops all-year-round in urban areas, and take up less ground while minimizing environmental risks. Indoor growing techniques typically require a more significant upfront investment to design and build-out these facilities, than traditional farmlands. If new innovations lower the costs for indoor growing, and the costs to operate traditional farmlands continue to rise, then indoor growing techniques may be a compelling alternative for the broader agricultural industry.
| State | Year Passed How Passed (Yes Vote) Possession Limit |
1.Alaska | 1998 Ballot Measure 8 (58%) 1 oz usable; 6 plants (3 mature, 3 immature) |
2.Arizona | 2010 Proposition 203 (50.13%) 2.5 oz usable; 12 plants |
3.Arkansas | 2016 Ballot Measure Issue 6 (53.2%) 3 oz usable per 14-day period |
4.California | 1996 Proposition 215 (56%) 8 oz usable; 6 mature or 12 immature plants |
5.Colorado | 2000 Ballot Amendment 20 (54%) 2 oz usable; 6 plants (3 mature, 3 immature) |
6.Connecticut | 2012 House Bill 5389 (96-51 H, 21-13 S) 2.5 oz usable |
7.Delaware | 2011 Senate Bill 17 (27-14 H, 17-4 S) 6 oz usable |
8.Florida | 2016Ballot Amendment 2 (71.3%) Amount to be determined |
9.Hawaii | 2000 Senate Bill 862 (32-18 H; 13-12 S) 4 oz usable; 7 plants |
10.Illinois | 2013 House Bill 1 (61-57 H; 35-21 S) 2.5 ounces of usable cannabis during a period of 14 days |
11.Maine | 1999 Ballot Question 2 (61%) 2.5 oz usable; 6 plants |
12.Maryland | 2014 House Bill 881 (125-11 H; 44-2 S) 30-day supply, amount to be determined |
13.Massachusetts | 2012 Ballot Question 3 (63%) 60-day supply for personal medical use (10 oz) |
14.Michigan | 2008 Proposal 1 (63%) 2.5 oz usable; 12 plants |
15.Minnesota | 2014 Senate Bill 2470 (46-16 S; 89-40 H) 30-day supply of non-smokable marijuana |
16.Montana | 2004 Initiative 148 (62%) 1 oz usable; 4 plants (mature); 12 seedlings |
17.Nevada | 2000 Ballot Question 9 (65%) 2.5 oz usable; 12 plants |
18.New Hampshire | 2013 House Bill 573 (284-66 H; 18-6 S) Two ounces of usable cannabis during a 10-day period |
19.New Jersey | 2010 Senate Bill 119 (48-14 H; 25-13 S) 2 oz usable |
20.New Mexico | 2007 Senate Bill 523 (36-31 H; 32-3 S) 6 oz usable; 16 plants (4 mature, 12 immature) |
21.New York | 2014 Assembly Bill 6357 (117-13 A; 49-10 S) 30-day supply non-smokable marijuana |
22.North Dakota | 2016 Ballot Measure 5 (63.7%) 3 oz per 14-day period |
23.Ohio | 2016 House Bill 523 (71-26 H; 18-15 S) Maximum of a 90-day supply, amount to be determined |
24.Oregon | 1998 Ballot Measure 67 (55%) 24 oz usable; 24 plants (6 mature, 18 immature) |
25.Pennsylvania | 2016 Senate Bill 3 (149-46 H; 42-7 S) 30-day supply |
26.Rhode Island | 2006 Senate Bill 0710 (52-10 H; 33-1 S) 2.5 oz usable; 12 plants |
27.Vermont | 2004 Senate Bill 76 (22-7) HB 645 (82-59) 2 oz usable; 9 plants (2 mature, 7 immature) |
28.Washington | 1998 Initiative 692 (59%) 8 oz usable; 6 plants |
| Washington, DC | 2010 Amendment Act B18-622 (13-0 vote) 2 oz dried; limits on other forms to be determined |
| Source: Marijuana State Laws – Summary Chart from ProCon.org |
Strategy
Our long-term strategy revolves around three premises: First, the indoor growing market for fruits, vegetables and medical plants is here to stay. We see an opportunity for it to double for several years, especially after last year’s election raising the number of states that support Cannabis; Second, GrowLife will continue to establish itself as a national brand to provide the much-needed advisory services and sell lighting, nutrients, mediums and other equipment, supplies and services to cultivators across the country; And third, the demand for more healthy, safer and economical ways to run indoor growing operations will dramatically increase and require innovative products to intelligently drive down costs without compromising quality. These are critical premises for the Company’s growth.
Our growth plan consists of adding more knowledgeable, talented and committed people, creating greater access to equipment and supplies, and offering more and better choices. We must sequence our steps in a timely and deliberate manner.
Our Base business provides GrowLife with a solid high-growth foundation, especially as we see interest increase for the GrowLife Retail License Program that was announced at the end of 2016. This License Program creates financial and operating efficiencies for GrowLife. We are shifting our retail store business from a fixed to variable cost structure, which allows us to apply our indoor cultivation competency to other retail partners, and reach more cultivators in markets across the US faster. The License Program offerings range from a Store-within-the-store, such as the one in place in Philadelphia at Fairmount Hardware, an Ace Hardware franchisee, located at 2011 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA, to partnering with retail investors who seek to set up new GrowLife-licensed hydroponic stores. We are pleased with the initial response and lessons learned from the License Program, which have helped refine our offerings, customer engagement and operating process.
The other two channels for our Base business, Online e-commerce and Direct Sales, continue to be refined as we apply more talent to them. We plan to serve the Base business with these channels by helping those price-sensitive customers drive down their equipment and supply costs. While this puts great price pressure on our manufacturers, we closely watch metrics move to the lowest cost per gram. One of the largest cultivators recently shifted their lights from a popular 1,000W to 315W where the electricity savings alone drove down their production cost by 35% and production increased by 20%.
In addition, our Expansion business efforts are equally capable of revenue growth. However, Expansion investments come with great risk not too different than building a start-up. Our Expansion efforts are intended to be game-changers.
The Cannabis industry itself is a game-changer. Many people are discovering great benefits with the plant that are far beyond its commercial growth. Even with all the government challenges we believe that both business and consumer will persevere because the demand and benefit of the plant are genuine based on scientific research conducted throughout the world. Consistent safety measures and standards are on their way. Therefore, we see the greatest opportunities and challenges to be in helping to address the mainstream acceptance and management of the plant…the game-changers.
GrowLife will therefore be pursuing such game-changers to help propel the industry forward on several fronts. Acquisitions may range from innovations that significantly drive down the operating costs for commercial cultivators to the desperately needed cloud-based tools for the government to extensively coordinate its policies with the industry in a safe and responsible manner. We expect to see some of these Expansion game-changers come to market in 2017. The caveat is that there are many moving parts and these game-changers may or may not come to pass.
GrowLife’s greatest growth may come from a business that is not a significant contributor today. We see three key areas that may be game-changers for us in 2017: Mergers & Acquisitions and Partnerships (MAP); Consumer with GrowLife Cube; and plant-related services. Each of these areas will require us to add the right people at the right time. Many talented individuals are ready to join GrowLife.
MAP in our Base business with Retail Licensing Program has quickly taught us to invest in new procedures and people. Growth from M&A is the most obvious expansion move. Over the last year we explored a half-a-dozen acquisition opportunities. However, we found that they were all over-priced. Even after factoring in the possible valuation lift to the PHOT share price, the risk/reward did not make sense.
The most visible example was Go Green Hydroponics, where we had entered into a non-binding letter of intent last year. We recently announced in an SEC 8-K/A filing that the non-binding letter of intent had expired and GrowLife does not expect to close the acquisition of Go Green Hydroponics. We will therefore not be pursuing this acquisition since our retail strategy has shifted to the GrowLife Retail Licensing Program.
Another area we are continuing to develop is demand from new consumers entering the industry, where they seek to learn how to build indoor operations. We have tested GrowLife Cube, an entry-level growing package that provides the basic set-up for an indoor farming operation. GrowLife provides all the necessary growing equipment and supplies. We have determined that there are many consumers without growing experience, knowledge and local access to hydroponic equipment and supplies. Therefore, we are tuning GrowLife Cube to more effectively reach and satisfy these new consumers.
Finally, in January we spent a few days at the Seed to Sale Show in Denver to explore the plant and seed business. Our conclusion is that it is an attractive business that needs to be further explored but in an indirect manner. GrowLife is not ready to directly touch the plant due to Federal interstate laws. We are instead considering how to legally support it through state based-partners.
We see the indoor cultivation industry as growing faster than other industries due to increasing demand for and legalization of non-toxic pain relief medicines. For years GrowLife has built its brand through experience with leading commercial cultivators. We continue to assemble the best team in the industry to create a great opportunity. Our investors and shareholders have shown strong loyalty and support even through difficult times.
Overall, GrowLife is in a stronger position than it has been for some time. With continued work and support, we are encouraged with the prospect of bringing growth back to the company and increase shareholder value.
Key Market Priorities
Our goal is to becomeof becoming the nation’s largest cultivation facility service provider for the production of organics, herbs and greens and plant-based medicines. We intendmedicines requires GrowLife to achieve(i) expand our goal by (i) offeringnationwide, multi-channel sales network presence, (ii) offer the best terms for the full range of build-out equipment and consumable supplies, (ii) maintain a nationwide, multi-channel sales network presence, and (iii) deliver superior, innovative products exclusively.products.
First, we serve the needs of all size cultivators and each one’s unique formulation. We provide thousands of varieties of supplies from dozens of vendors and distributors. More importantly is our experience of knowing which products to recommend under each customer’s circumstance. Grow expansions may also qualify for leasing terms by one of our financing partner.
Second, we provide distribution through retail, e-commerce and direct sales to have national coverage and serve cultivators of all sizes. Each channel offers varying pricing for differing benefits. Retail sells at list price by offering inventory convenience, e-commerce provides the lowest pricelower prices without requiring local inventory, and direct sales delivers the best bid price for high-volume purchasers. Additional points of service may be added through existing distribution locations and services. This may be done in several manners and programs that may incorporate cultivator-centric locations with other retailer store owners.
Second, we serve the needs of all size cultivators and each one’s unique formulation, or ‘recipe’. We provide thousands of varieties of supplies from dozens of vendors and distributors. More importantly is our experience of knowing which products to recommend under each customer’s circumstance.
And third, our experience with hundreds of customers allowallows us to determine specific product needs and sources to test new designs. Lights, pesticides, nutrients, extraction and growing systems are some examples of products that GrowLife has obtained exclusive accesscan provide. Popular name branded products are seeking to purchase and distribute.be part of the GrowLife company in many forms. In exchange, we can market their products in a unique manner over generic products.
Our company willcan expand onwith these strategies until it serves all themore indoor cultivators throughout the country. Once a customer is engaged, we willcan gradually expand their purchasing market share.
Key Market Priorities
Demand for indoor growing equipment is currently high due to legalization of plant-based medicines, primarily cannabis, which is mainly due to equipment purchases for build-out and repeated consumables. This demand is projected to continue to grow as a result of the supporting state laws in 23 states and the District of Columbia. Continued innovation in more efficient build-out technologies along with larger and consolidated cultivation facilities will further expand market demand for our products and services.
We expect for the market to continue to segment into urban farmers serving groups of individuals, community cultivators, and large-scale cultivation facilities across the states. Each segment will be optimized to different distribution channels that we currently provide. Our volume purchasing will allow us to obtain the best prices and maximize both our revenues and gross margins.
The nature of the cannabis industry’s inefficiencies dueshare by providing greater economic benefit to the lack of interstate commerce imposed by the Federal government has segmented the market opportunities by State laws, population and demand. Currently, Colorado laws and population demand make it the most progressive and top market in the industry. We have elected to have two major regional retail stores in Boulder and Vail, Colorado direct sales team and centralized our national e-commerce operations in Boulder, Colorado. We are currently reaching into over 17 states using both direct sales of exclusive supplier contracts and customers who buy more products from GrowLife eco products tothan from other hydroponic retailers.suppliers.
Employees
Starting the three months ended September 30, 2014, we reduced our manpower count from 46 to 8 as of September 30, 2015 by leveraging all our manpower across many areas. All company operations are continually reviewed for growth opportunities and direct sales along with GrowLife eco, a premium line of eco-friendly products, is enabling the Company to expand its coverage in a cost-effective manner.
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, we had one full-time employee and two consultantsone consultant at our Seattle, Washington office. Marco Hegyi, our President,Chief Executive Officer, is based in Seattle,Kirkland, Washington. Mark E. Scott, our consulting CFO, is based out ofprimarily in Seattle, Washington and Atlanta, Georgia.Washington. In addition, we have 710 employees located throughout the United States who operate our e-commerce, direct sales and retail businesses. None of our employees is subject to a collective bargaining agreement or represented by a trade or labor union. We believe that we have a good relationship with our employees.
We remain focused on hiring the best people to expand our direct sales personnel. These personnel are knowledgeable in using the most progressive growing technologies that fit our customer’s needs. Whether they are small-scale local cultivation facilities or large-scale regional cultivators, our customer service team recommends smart medium, cost-effective lighting and ventilation, and the right nutrients that are best suited for the crop objective. Our knowledge layer is strategic for the evolution of the indoor growing industry. Unlike an outdoor superstore, GrowLife serves the specialty cultivation business as indoor crops are designed to deliver multiple grow cycles with greater quality and yield not available in outdoor agriculture. Technologies will be available to provide our customers with a way to further tune their ordering process and crop development using their own experience.
Key Partners
Our key customers varyingvary by state and are expected to be more defined as the company moves from its retail walk-in purchasing sales strategy to serving cultivation facilities directly and under predictable purchasing contracts.
Our key suppliers include distributors such as HydroFarm, Urban Horticultural Supply and Sunlight Supply to product specific suppliers such as Solis-Tek and CAN USA.product-specific suppliers. All the products purchased and resold are applicable to indoor growing for organics, greens, and plant-based medicines.
Competition
Certain large commercial cultivators have found themselves willing to assume their own equipment support by buying large volume purchased directly from certain suppliers and distributors such as Sunlight Supplies HydraFarm, and UHS.HydroFarm. Other key competitors on the retail side include Way to Grow, Cultivate Coloradoconsist of local and many local productregional hydroponic resellers of hydroponicindoor growing equipment. On the e-commerce business, GrowersHouse.com, Hydrobuilder.com, HorticultureSource.com and smaller online resellers using Amazon and eBay e-commerce sub-systems.market systems.
Intellectual Property and Proprietary Rights
Our intellectual property consists of brands and their related trademarks and websites, customer lists and affiliations, product know-how and technology, and marketing intangibles.
Our other intellectual property is primarily in the form of trademarks and domain names. We also hold rights to more than 30several website addresses related to our business including websites that are actively used in our day-to-day business such as www.growlifeinc.com www.stealthgrow.com, www.greners.com,, www.growlifeeco.com and www.urbangardensupplies.com.www.greners.com.
We have a policy of entering into confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements with our employees and some of our vendors and customers as necessary.
Government Regulation
Currently, there are currently twenty-threetwenty eight states plus the District of Columbia that have laws and/or regulation that recognize in one form or another legitimate medical uses for cannabis and consumer use of cannabis in connection with medical treatment. About a dozen other states are considering legislation to similar effect. There are currently fourseven states that allow recreational use of cannabis. As of the date of this writing, the policy and regulations of the Federal government and its agencies is that cannabis has no medical benefit and a range of activities including cultivation and use of cannabis for personal use is prohibited on the basis of federal law and may or may not be permitted on the basis of state law. Active enforcement of the current federal regulatory position on cannabis on a regional or national basis may directly and adversely affect the willingness of customers of GrowLife to invest in or buy products from GrowLife. Active enforcement of the current federal regulatory position on cannabis may thus indirectly and adversely affect revenues and profits of the GrowLife companies.
All this being said, many reports show that the majority of the American public is in favor of making medical cannabis available as a controlled substance to those patients who need it. The need and consumption will then require cultivators to continue to provide safe and compliant crops to consumers. The cultivators will then need to build facilities and use consumable products, which GrowLife provides.
THE COMPANY’S COMMON STOCK
Our common stock tradestraded on the grey market under the symbol “PHOT.”“PHOT” through February 17, 2016. While the company is currentlywas without a market maker, its stock does trade directly between buyers and sellers.sellers on the grey sheets. The quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail markup, markdown or commission, and may not represent actual transactions. Consequently, the information provided below was not be indicative of our common stock price under different conditions.
On February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently taking the appropriate steps to uplist to the OTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is able.
PRIMARY RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
We are exposed to various risks related to legal proceedings, our need for additional financing, the sale of significant numbers of our shares, the potential adjustment in the exercise price of our convertible debentures and a volatile market price for our common stock. These risks and uncertainties are discussed in more detail below in Part I,II, Item 1A.
WEBSITE ACCESS TO UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION REPORTS
We file annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). You may read and copy any document we file at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. The SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information concerning filers. We also maintain a web site at http://www.growlifeinc.com that provides additional information about our Company and links to documents we file with the SEC. The Company's charters for the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, and the Nominating Committee; and the Code of Conduct & Ethics are also available on our website. The information on our website is not part of this Form 10-K.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There are certain inherent risks which will have an effect on the Company’s development in the future and the most significant risks and uncertainties known and identified by our management are described below.
Risks Related to Our Business
Risks associatedAssociated with Securities Purchase Agreement with Chicago Venture
The Securities Purchase Agreement with Chicago Venture will terminate if we file protection from its creditors, a Registration Statement on Form S-1 is not effective, and our market capitalization or the trading volume of our common stock does not reach certain levels. If terminated, we will be unable to draw down all or substantially all of our $2,500,000 Chicago Venture Note.
Our ability to require Chicago Venture to fund the Chicago Venture Note is at our discretion, subject to certain limitations. Chicago Venture is obligated to fund if each of the following conditions are met; (i) the average and median daily dollar volumes of our common stock for the twenty (20) and sixty (60) trading days immediately preceding the funding date are greater than $100,000; (ii) our market capitalization on the funding date is greater than $17,000,000; (iii) we are not in default with respect to share delivery obligations under the note as of the funding date; and (iv) we are current in its reporting obligations.
There is no guarantee that we will be able to meet the foregoing conditions or any other conditions under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note or that we will be able to draw down any portion of the amounts available under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note.
If we not able to draw down all $2,500,000 available under the Securities Purchase Agreement or if the Securities Purchase Agreement is terminated, we may be forced to curtail the scope of our operations or alter our business plan if other financing is not available to us.
Risks Associated from TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”). Funding Transactions.
We have entered into various funding transactions with TCA. On July 9, 2015,January 10, 2017, Chicago Venture, at our instruction, remitted funds of $1,495,901 to TCA in order to satisfy all debts to TCA. On or around January 11, 2017, we closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements withwere notified by TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP, an accredited investor, whereby we agreedthat $13,540 were due to sellTCA in order for TCA to release its security interest in the Company’s assets. On February 1, 2017, TCA notified the Company that all funds were received and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 may be purchasedwould release its security interest our assets. TCA has confirmed that it is paid in additional closings. The closing of the Transaction occurred on July 9, 2015.
On August 6, 2015, we closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP, whereby we agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior secured convertible redeemable debenturefull and we agreedare not aware of any other obligations that the we have as to issueTCA. The funds received under the Chicago Venture Agreements and sellprevious Chicago Venture Agreements were used to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from us up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a Committed Equity Facility. The closing of the Transaction occurred on August 6, 2015.pay-off TCA.
Failure to operate in accordance with the Agreements with TCA could result in the cancellation of these agreements, result in foreclosure on our assets in event of default and would have a material adverse affecteffect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Suspension of trading of the Company’s securities.
On April 10, 2014, we received notice from the SEC that trading of the Company’sour common stock on the OTCBB was to be suspended from April 10, 2014 through April 24, 2014. The SEC issued its order pursuant to Section 12(k) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. According to the notice received by us from the SEC: “It appears to the Securities and Exchange Commission that the public interest and the protection of investors require a suspension of trading in the securities of GrowLife, Inc. because of concerns regarding the accuracy and adequacy of information in the marketplace and potentially manipulative transactions in GrowLife’s common stock.” To date, the Company haswe have not received notice from the SEC that it is being formally investigated.
On February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently taking the appropriate steps to uplist to the OTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is able.
The suspension of trading eliminated our market makers, resulted in our trading on the grey sheets, resulted in legal proceedings and restricted our access to capital. This action has had a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. If we are unable to obtain additional financing when it is needed, we will need to restructure our operations, and divest all or a portion of our business.
SEC chargescharged outsiders with manipulating our securities.
On August 5, 2014, the SEC charged four promoters with ties to the Pacific Northwest for manipulating our securities. The SEC alleged that the four promoters bought inexpensive shares of thinly traded penny stock companies on the open market and conducted pre-arranged, manipulative matched orders and wash trades to create the illusion of an active market in these stocks. They then sold their shares in coordination with aggressive third party promotional campaigns that urged investors to buy the stocks because the prices were on the verge of rising substantially. This action has had a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. If we are unable to obtain additional financing when it is needed, we will need to restructure our operations, and divest all or a portion of our business.
On July 9, 2015, the SEC entered into settlements with two of the promoters. In connection with the settlement of their SEC action, the two men are liable for disgorgement of approximately $2.1 million and $306,000 in illicit profits, respectively. Earlier this year the two men were also sentenced to five and three years in prison, respectively, for their participation in the scheme.
We are involved in Legal Proceedings.
We are involved in the disputes and legal proceedings as discussed in this Form 10-K.annual report. In addition, as a public company, we are also potentially susceptible to litigation, such as claims asserting violations of securities laws. Any such claims, with or without merit, if not resolved, could be time-consuming and result in costly litigation. There can be no assurance that an adverse result in any future proceeding would not have a potentially material adverse on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Our Joint Venture Agreement with CANX USA, LLC is important to our operations.
On November 19, 2013, we entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding our operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitating additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000.
We initially owned a non-dilutive 45% share of OGI and the Company could acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Joint Venture Agreement. In accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby the we delivered to CANX a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of our common stock that is convertible at $0.033 per share, subject to adjustment as provided in the warrant. The five-year warrant expires November 18, 2018. Also in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, on February 7, 2014, the Company issued an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of our common stock that is convertible at $0.033 per share, subject to adjustment as provided in the warrant. The five-year warrant expires February 6, 2019.
GrowLife received the $1 million as a convertible note in December 2013, received the $1.3 million commitment but not executed and by January 2014 OGI had Letters of Intent with four investment and acquisition transactions valued at $96 million. Before the deals could close, the SEC put a trading halt on our stock on April 10, 2014, which resulted in the withdrawal of all transactions. The business disruption from the trading halt and the resulting class action and derivative lawsuits ceased further investments with the OGI joint venture. The Convertible Note was converted into our common stock as of the year ended December 31, 2016.
On July 10, 2014, we closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company. The Agreements require the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
Previously, we entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX USA LLC, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding the Company’s operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitating additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000. In connection with the closing of the Agreement, CANX agreed to provide a commitment for funding in the amount of $1,300,000 for a GrowLife Infrastructure Funding Technology program transaction and provided additional funding under a 7% Convertible Note instrument for $1,000,000, including $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III Investments LLC, entities that are unaffiliated with CANX and operate as separate legal entities. We initially owned a non-dilutive 45% share of OGI and we may acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Joint Venture Agreement. In accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby the Company delivered to CANX a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of the Company common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share. Also in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, we issued an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of our common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share on February 7, 2014.
On April 10, 2014, as a result of the suspension in the trading of our securities, we went into default on our 7% Convertible Notes Payable for $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III. As a result, we accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 24% per annum. Furthermore, as a result of being in default on these notes, the Holders could have, at their sole discretion, called these notes.
Waiver and Modification Agreement
We entered into a Waiver and Modification Agreement dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works LLC whereby the 7% Convertible Note with Logic Works dated December 20, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) a waiver of the default under the 7% Convertible Note; (ii) a conversion price which is the lesser of (A) $0.025 or (B) twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable Conversion Date on which the Holder elects to convert all or part of this Note; (iii) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014; and (iv) continuing interest of 24% per annum. China West III converted its Note into common stock on June 4, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement
We entered into anThe Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement dated July 1, 2014 with CANX wherebymodified the Joint Venture Agreement dated November 19, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) up to $12,000,000 in conditional financing subject to review by GrowLife and approval by OGI for business growth development opportunities in the legal cannabis industry for up to sixnine months, subject to extension; (ii) up to $10,000,000 in working capital loans with each loaning requiring approval in advance by CANX; (iii) confirmed that the five year warrants, subject to extension,adjustment, at $0.033 per share for the purchase of 140,000,000 and 100,000,000 were fully earned and were not considered compensation for tax purposes by the Company; (iv) granted CANX five year warrants, subject to extension,adjustment, to purchase 300,000,000 shares of common stock at the fair market price of $0.033 per share as determined by an independent appraisal; (v) warrants as defined in the Agreement related to the achievement of OGI milestones; and (vi) a four year term, subject to adjustment and (vi) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.adjustment.
Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility
We entered into a Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works whereby Logic Works agreed to provide up to $500,000 in funding. Each funding requiresrequired approval in advance by Logic Works, provides for interest at 6% with a default interest of 24% per annum and requiresrequired repayment by June 26, 2016. The Note is convertible into our common stock of the Company at the lesser of $0.007$0.0070 or (B) 20%twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the 20twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which Logic Works elects to convert all or part of this 6% Convertible Note, subject to adjustment as provided in the Note. The 6% Convertible Note is collateralized by our assets. We also agreed to file a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and have the registration statement declared effective within ninety days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
On July 10, 2014, we closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholderassets of the Company. As of June 30, 2015, we have borrowed $350,000 underMarch 31, 2017, the Securedoutstanding balance on the Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works.was $39,251.
Failure to operate in accordance with the Agreements with CANX could result in the cancellation of these agreements, result in foreclosure on our assets in event of default and would have a material adverse affecteffect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
The restatement of our unaudited financial statements may result in litigation or government enforcement actions. Any such action would likely harm our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.
In connection with the review of our Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2014, management determined that previously issued unaudited consolidated financial statements issued for the three months ended March 31, 2014 contained an error, which was non-cash in nature. We reviewed the impact of this error and determined that the impact of this error for the three months ended March 31, 2014 unaudited consolidated financial statements was material. On June 19, 2014, after review by our independent registered public accounting firm and legal counsel, our Audit Committee of our Board of Directors concluded that we should restate our unaudited interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2014 to reflect the correction of the previously identified error in the unaudited consolidated financial statements for this period.
We filed Form 10Q/A on June 27, 2014 and restated the consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2014, and the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2014 to reflect the correcting book entry as described below. There was no impact to our actual cash balances as a result of these errors, and these errors do not change net cash flows from financing activities. There was no impact of this error on net cash flows from operating activities.
The restatement of our unaudited financial statements may expose us to risks associated with litigation, regulatory proceedings and government enforcement actions. In addition, securities class action litigation has often been brought against companies, which have been unable to provide current public information or which have restated previously filed financial statements. Any of these actions could result in substantial costs, divert management's attention and resources, and harm our business, prospects, results of operation and financial condition.
Our proposed business is dependent on laws pertaining to the marijuana industry.
Continued development of the marijuana industry is dependent upon continued legislative authorization of the use and cultivation of marijuana at the state level. Any number of factors could slow or halt progress in this area. Further, progress, while encouraging, is not assured. While there may be ample public support for legislative action, numerous factors impact the legislative process. Any one of these factors could slow or halt use of marijuana, which would negatively impact our proposed business.
As of September 30, 2015, 23December 31, 2016, twenty eight states and the District of Columbia allow its citizens to use medical marijuana. Additionally, 4seven states have legalized cannabis for adult use. The state laws are in conflict with the federal Controlled Substances Act, which makes marijuana use and possession illegal on a national level. The Obama administration haspreviously effectively stated that it is not an efficient use of resources to direct law federal law enforcement agencies to prosecute those lawfully abiding by state-designated laws allowing the use and distribution of medical marijuana. The Trump administration position is unknown. However, there is no guarantee that the Trump administration will not change its statedcurrent policy regarding the low-priority enforcement of federal laws. Additionally, any new administration that follows could change this policy and decide to enforce the federal laws strongly. Any such change in the federal government’s enforcement of current federal laws could cause significant financial damage to us and its shareholders.
Further, while we do not harvest, distribute or sell marijuana, by supplying products to growers of marijuana, we could be deemed to be participating in marijuana cultivation, which remains illegal under federal law, and exposes us to potential criminal liability, with the additional risk that our business could be subject to civil forfeiture proceedings.
The marijuana industry faces strong opposition.
It is believed by many that large, well-funded businesses may have a strong economic opposition to the marijuana industry. We believe that the pharmaceutical industry clearly does not want to cede control of any product that could generate significant revenue. For example, medical marijuana will likely adversely impact the existing market for the current “marijuana pill” sold by mainstream pharmaceutical companies. Further, the medical marijuana industry could face a material threat from the pharmaceutical industry, should marijuana displace other drugs or encroach upon the pharmaceutical industry’s products. The pharmaceutical industry is well funded with a strong and experienced lobby that eclipses the funding of the medical marijuana movement. Any inroads the pharmaceutical industry could make in halting or impeding the marijuana industry harm our business, prospects, results of operation and financial condition.
Marijuana remains illegal under Federal law.
Marijuana is a schedule-ISchedule-I controlled substance and is illegal under federal law. Even in those states in which the use of marijuana has been legalized, its use remains a violation of federal law. Since federal law criminalizing the use of marijuana preempts state laws that legalize its use, strict enforcement of federal law regarding marijuana would harm our business, prospects, results of operation and financial condition.
Raising additional capital to implement our business plan and pay our debts will cause dilution to our existing stockholders, require us to restructure our operations, and divest all or a portion of our business.
We need additional financing to implement our business plan and to service our ongoing operations and pay our current debts. There can be no assurance that we will be able to secure any needed funding, or that if such funding is available, the terms or conditions would be acceptable to us.
If we raise additional capital through borrowing or other debt financing, we may incur substantial interest expense. Sales of additional equity securities will dilute on a pro rata basis the percentage ownership of all holders of common stock. When we raise more equity capital in the future, it will result in substantial dilution to our current stockholders.
If we are unable to obtain additional financing when it is needed, we will need to restructure our operations, and divest all or a portion of our business.
We were in default on our convertible notes payable.Potential Convertible Note Defaults.
On April 10, 2014, as a resultSeveral of the SEC suspension in the tradingCompany’s convertible promissory notes remain outstanding beyond their respective maturity dates. This may trigger an event of our securities, we went into default on our 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable and our 7% Convertible Notes Payable. As a result, we accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 12% and 24% per annum, respectively. Furthermore, as a result of being in default on these notes, the Holders could have, at their sole discretion, called these notes.
During July 2014, we reached settlement agreements with our holders of the 7% Convertible Notes Payable and we are not in default under any of our convertiblethe respective agreements. The Company is working with these noteholders to convert their notes payable. We are accruing interest at the interest rate in the settlement agreements.into common stock and intends to resolve these outstanding issues as soon as practicable. Any default could have a significant adverse affecteffect on our cash flows and should we be unsuccessful in negotiating an extension or other modification, we may have to restructure our operations, divest all or a portion of its business, or file for bankruptcy.
Closing of bank accounts could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and/or results of operations.
As a result of the regulatory environment, we have experienced the closing of several of our bank accounts since March 2014. We have been able to open other bank accounts. However, we may have other banking accounts closed. These factors impact management and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and/or results of operations.
Federal regulation and enforcement may adversely affect the implementation of medical marijuana laws and regulations may negatively impact our revenues and profits.
Currently, there are 23twenty eight states plus the District of Columbia that have laws and/or regulation that recognize in one form or another legitimate medical uses for cannabis and consumer use of cannabis in connection with medical treatment. Many other states are considering legislation to similar effect. As of the date of this writing, the policy and regulations of the Federal government and its agencies is that cannabis has no medical benefit and a range of activities including cultivation and use of cannabis for personal use is prohibited on the basis of federal law and may or may not be permitted on the basis of state law. Active enforcement of the current federal regulatory position on cannabis on a regional or national basis may directly and adversely affect the willingness of customers of GrowLife to invest in or buy products from GrowLife that may be used in connection with cannabis. Active enforcement of the current federal regulatory position on cannabis may thus indirectly and adversely affect revenues and profits of the GrowLife companies.
Our history of net losses has raised substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a going concern. If we do not continue as a going concern, investors could lose their entire investment.
Our history of net losses has raised substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, and as a result, our independent registered public accounting firmsfirm included an explanatory paragraph in their reportsits report on our financial statements as of and for the yearsyear ended December 31, 20142016 and 20132015 with respect to this uncertainty. Accordingly, our ability to continue as a going concern will require us to seek alternative financing to fund our operations. This going concern opinion could materially limit our ability to raise additional funds through the issuance of new debt or equity securities or otherwise. Future reports on our financial statements may include an explanatory paragraph with respect to our ability to continue as a going concern.
We have a history of operating losses and there can be no assurance that we can again achieve or maintain profitability.
We have experienced net losses since inception. As of December 31, 2014,2016, we had an accumulated deficit of $111$.0124.4 million. There can be no assurance that we will achieve or maintain profitability.
We are subject to corporate governance and internal control reporting requirements, and our costs related to compliance with, or our failure to comply with existing and future requirements, could adversely affect our business.
We must comply with corporate governance requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, as well as additional rules and regulations currently in place and that may be subsequently adopted by the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. These laws, rules, and regulations continue to evolve and may become increasingly stringent in the future. We are required to include management’s report on internal controls as part of our annual report pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We strive to continuously evaluate and improve our control structure to help ensure that we comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The financial cost of compliance with these laws, rules, and regulations is expected to remain substantial.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to fully comply with these laws, rules, and regulations that address corporate governance, internal control reporting, and similar matters. Failure to comply with these laws, rules and regulations could materially adversely affect our reputation, financial condition, and the value of our securities.
Our management has concluded that we have material weaknesses in our internal controls over financial reporting and that our disclosure controls and procedures are not effective.
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of a company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. A significant deficiency is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting that is less severe than a material weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those responsible for oversight of the company's financial reporting. During the auditreview of our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, our management identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. If these weaknesses continue, investors could lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and other disclosures.
Our inability to effectively manage our growth could harm our business and materially and adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
Our strategy envisions growing our business. We plan to expand our product, sales, administrative and marketing organizations. Any growth in or expansion of our business is likely to continue to place a strain on our management and administrative resources, infrastructure and systems. As with other growing businesses, we expect that we will need to further refine and expand our business development capabilities, our systems and processes and our access to financing sources. We also will need to hire, train, supervise and manage new and retain contributing employees. These processes are time consuming and expensive, will increase management responsibilities and will divert management attention. We cannot assure you that we will be able to:
| | ● | expand our products effectively or efficiently or in a timely manner; |
| | ● | allocate our human resources optimally; |
| | ● | meet our capital needs; |
| | ● | identify and hire qualified employees or retain valued employees; or |
| | ● | incorporate effectively the components of any business or product line that we may acquire in our effort to achieve growth. |
Our inability or failure to manage our growth and expansion effectively could harm our business and materially and adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
Our operating results may fluctuate significantly based on customer acceptance of our products. As a result, period-to-period comparisons of our results of operations are unlikely to provide a good indication of our future performance. Management expects that we will experience substantial variations in our net sales and operating results from quarter to quarter due to customer acceptance of our products. If customers don’t accept our products, our sales and revenues will decline, resulting in a reduction in our operating income.
Customer interest for our products could also be impacted by the timing of our introduction of new products. If our competitors introduce new products around the same time that we issue new products, and if such competing products are superior to our own, customers’ desire for our products could decrease, resulting in a decrease in our sales and revenues. To the extent that we introduce new products and customers decide not to migrate to our new products from our older products, our revenues could be negatively impacted due to the loss of revenue from those customers. In the event that our newer products do not sell as well as our older products, we could also experience a reduction in our revenues and operating income.
As a result of fluctuations in our revenue and operating expenses that may occur, management believes that period-to-period comparisons of our results of operations are unlikely to provide a good indication of our future performance.
If we do not successfully generate additional products and services, or if such products and services are developed but not successfully commercialized, we could lose revenue opportunities.
Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to expand our product and service offerings. To that end we have engaged in the process of identifying new product opportunities to provide additional products and related services to our customers. The process of identifying and commercializing new products is complex and uncertain, and if we fail to accurately predict customers’ changing needs and emerging technological trends our business could be harmed. We may have to commit significant resources to commercializing new products before knowing whether our investments will result in products the market will accept. Furthermore, we may not execute successfully on commercializing those products because of errors in product planning or timing, technical hurdles that we fail to overcome in a timely fashion, or a lack of appropriate resources. This could result in competitors providing those solutions before we do and a reduction in net sales and earnings.
The success of new products depends on several factors, including proper new product definition, timely completion and introduction of these products, differentiation of new products from those of our competitors, and market acceptance of these products. There can be no assurance that we will successfully identify new product opportunities, develop and bring new products to market in a timely manner, or achieve market acceptance of our products or that products and technologies developed by others will not render our products or technologies obsolete or noncompetitive.
Our future success depends on our ability to grow and expand our customer base. Our failure to achieve such growth or expansion could materially harm our business.
To date, our revenue growth has been derived primarily from the sale of our products and through the purchase of existing businesses. Our success and the planned growth and expansion of our business depend on us achieving greater and broader acceptance of our products and expanding our customer base. There can be no assurance that customers will purchase our products or that we will continue to expand our customer base. If we are unable to effectively market or expand our product offerings, we will be unable to grow and expand our business or implement our business strategy. This could materially impair our ability to increase sales and revenue and materially and adversely affect our margins, which could harm our business and cause our stock price to decline.
If we incur substantial liability from litigation, complaints, or enforcement actions resulting from misconduct by our distributors, our financial condition could suffer. We will require that our distributors comply with applicable law and with our policies and procedures. Although we will use various means to address misconduct by our distributors, including maintaining these policies and procedures to govern the conduct of our distributors and conducting training seminars, it will still be difficult to detect and correct all instances of misconduct. Violations of applicable law or our policies and procedures by our distributors could lead to litigation, formal or informal complaints, enforcement actions, and inquiries by various federal, state, or foreign regulatory authorities against us and/or our distributors. Litigation, complaints, and enforcement actions involving us and our distributors could consume considerable amounts of financial and other corporate resources, which could have a negative impact on our sales, revenue, profitability and growth prospects. As we are currently in the process of implementing our direct sales distributor program, we have not been, and are not currently, subject to any material litigation, complaint or enforcement action regarding distributor misconduct by any federal, state or foreign regulatory authority.
Our future manufacturers could fail to fulfill our orders for products, which would disrupt our business, increase our costs, harm our reputation and potentially cause us to lose our market.
We may depend on contract manufacturers in the future to produce our products. These manufacturers could fail to produce products to our specifications or in a workmanlike manner and may not deliver the units on a timely basis. Our manufacturers may also have to obtain inventories of the necessary parts and tools for production. Any change in manufacturers to resolve production issues could disrupt our ability to fulfill orders. Any change in manufacturers to resolve production issues could also disrupt our business due to delays in finding new manufacturers, providing specifications and testing initial production. Such disruptions in our business and/or delays in fulfilling orders would harm our reputation and would potentially cause us to lose our market.
Our inability to effectively protect our intellectual property would adversely affect our ability to compete effectively, our revenue, our financial condition and our results of operations.
We may be unable to obtain intellectual property rights to effectively protect our business. Our ability to compete effectively may be affected by the nature and breadth of our intellectual property rights. While we intend to defend against any threats to our intellectual property rights, there can be no assurance that any such actions will adequately protect our interests. If we are unable to secure intellectual property rights to effectively protect our technology, our revenue and earnings, financial condition, and/or results of operations would be adversely affected.
We may also rely on nondisclosure and non-competition agreements to protect portions of our technology. There can be no assurance that these agreements will not be breached, that we will have adequate remedies for any breach, that third parties will not otherwise gain access to our trade secrets or proprietary knowledge, or that third parties will not independently develop the technology.
We do not warrant any opinion as to non-infringement of any patent, trademark, or copyright by us or any of our affiliates, providers, or distributors. Nor do we warrant any opinion as to invalidity of any third-party patent or unpatentability of any third-party pending patent application.
Our industry is highly competitive and we have less capital and resources than many of our competitors, which may give them an advantage in developing and marketing products similar to ours or make our products obsolete.
We are involved in a highly competitive industry where we may compete with numerous other companies who offer alternative methods or approaches, may have far greater resources, more experience, and personnel perhaps more qualified than we do. Such resources may give our competitors an advantage in developing and marketing products similar to ours or products that make our products obsolete. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully compete against these other entities.
Transfers of our securities may be restricted by virtue of state securities “blue sky” laws, which prohibit trading absent compliance with individual state laws. These restrictions may make it difficult or impossible to sell shares in those states.
Transfers of our common stock may be restricted under the securities or securities regulations laws promulgated by various states and foreign jurisdictions, commonly referred to as "blue sky" laws. Absent compliance with such individual state laws, our common stock may not be traded in such jurisdictions. Because the securities held by many of our stockholders have not been registered for resale under the blue sky laws of any state, the holders of such shares and persons who desire to purchase them should be aware that there may be significant state blue sky law restrictions upon the ability of investors to sell the securities and of purchasers to purchase the securities. These restrictions may prohibit the secondary trading of our common stock. Investors should consider the secondary market for our securities to be a limited one.
We are dependent on key personnel.personnel and we are default under Employment and Consulting Agreements
Our success depends to a significant degree upon the continued contributions of key management and other personnel, some of whom could be difficult to replace. We do not maintain key man life insurance covering our officers except for Marco Hegyi, our President.officers. Our success will depend on the performance of our officers and key management and other personnel, our ability to retain and motivate our officers, our ability to integrate new officers and key management and other personnel into our operations, and the ability of all personnel to work together effectively as a team. Our failure to retain and recruit officers and other key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have limited insurance.
We have limitedno directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and limited commercial liability insurance policies. Any significant claims would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to our Common Stock
CANX and Logic Works and China WestTCA could have significant influence over matters submitted to stockholders for approval.
CANX and Logic Works
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, CANX and Logic Works and China West in the aggregate hold shares representing approximately 53.8%29.9% of our common stock on a fully-converted basis and could be considered a control group for purposes of SEC rules. However, their agreements limit their ownership to 4.9%4.99% individually and each of the parties disclaims its status as a control group or a beneficial owner due to the fact that their beneficial ownership is limited to 4.9%4.99% per their agreements. Beneficial ownership includes shares over which an individual or entity has investment or voting power and includes shares that could be issued upon the exercise of options and warrants within 60 days after the date of determination.
TCA and Chicago Venture
As a result of funding from TCA and Chicago Venture as previously detailed, they exercise significant control over us.
If these persons were to choose to act together, they would be able to significantly influence all matters submitted to our stockholders for approval, as well as our officers, directors, management and affairs. For example, these persons, if they choose to act together, could significantly influence the election of directors and approval of any merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets. This concentration of voting power could delay or prevent an acquisition of us on terms that other stockholders may desire.
Trading in our stock is limited by the lack of market makers and the SEC’s penny stock regulations.
On April 10, 2014, as a result of the SEC suspension in the trading of our securities, we lost all market makers and currently tradetraded on the grey market of OTCBB. Until we complycomplied with FINRA Rule 15c2-11, we will tradetraded on the grey market, which limitshas limited quotations and marketability of securities. Holders of our common stock will continue to findfound it more difficult to dispose of, or to obtain accurate quotations as to the market value of, our common stock, and the market value of our common stock will likely decline.declined.
AlthoughOn February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently does not meettaking the definition of a “penny stock” dueappropriate steps to an increase in our revenues for past two years, inuplist to the recent past ourOTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is able.
Our stock wasis categorized as a penny stock and it is possible that our stock may become a penny stock again in the future. The SEC has adopted Rule 15g-9 which generally defines "penny stock" to be any equity security that has a market
price (as defined) less than US$ 5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than US$ 5.00 per share, subject to certain exclusions (e.g., net tangible assets in excess of $2,000,000 or average revenue of at least $6,000,000 for the last three years). If our securities were to become aThe penny stock in the future, they would be covered by the penny stock rules which impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell to persons other than established customers and accredited investors. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document in a form prepared by the SEC, which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction, and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer's account. The bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information, must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to effecting the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customer's confirmation. In addition, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from these rules, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser's written agreement to the transaction. Finally, broker-dealers may not handle penny stocks under $0.10 per share.
These disclosure requirements reduce the level of trading activity in the secondary market for the stock that is subject to these penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules would affect the ability of broker-dealers to trade our securities if we become subject to them in the future. The penny stock rules also could discourage investor interest in and limit the marketability of our common stock to future investors, resulting in limited ability for investors to sell their shares.
FINRA sales practice requirements may also limit a shareholder’s ability to buy and sell our stock.
In addition to the “penny stock” rules described above, FINRA has adopted rules that require that in recommending an investment to a customer, a broker-dealer must have reasonable grounds for believing that the investment is suitable for that customer. Prior to recommending speculative low priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customer’s financial status, tax status, investment objectives and other information. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA believes that there is a high probability that speculative low priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. The FINRA requirements make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that their customers buy our common stock, which may limit your ability to buy and sell our stock and have an adverse effect on the market for our shares.
The market price of our common stock may be volatile.
The market price of our common stock has been and is likely in the future to be volatile. Our common stock price may fluctuate in response to factors such as:
●
| Halting of trading by the SEC or FINRA. |
| | |
| ● | Announcements by us regarding liquidity, legal proceedings, significant acquisitions, equity investments and divestitures, strategic relationships, addition or loss of significant customers and contracts, capital expenditure commitments, loan, note payable and agreement defaults, loss of our subsidiaries and impairment of assets, |
| | |
| ● | Issuance of convertible or equity securities for general or merger and acquisition purposes, |
| | |
| ● | Issuance or repayment of debt, accounts payable or convertible debt for general or merger and acquisition purposes, |
| | |
| ● | Sale of a significant number of shares of our common stock by shareholders, |
| | |
| ● | General market and economic conditions, |
| ● | Quarterly variations in our operating results, |
| | |
| ● | Investor relation activities, |
| | |
| ● | Announcements of technological innovations, |
| | |
| ● | New product introductions by us or our competitors, |
| | |
| ● | Competitive activities, and |
| | |
| ● | Additions or departures of key personnel. |
These broad market and industry factors may have a material adverse affecteffect on the market price of our common stock, regardless of our actual operating performance. These factors could have a material adverse affecteffect on our business, financial condition, and/or results of operations.
The sale of a significant number of our shares of common stock could depress the price of our common stock.
Sales or issuances of a large number of shares of common stock in the public market or the perception that sales may occur could cause the market price of our common stock to decline. As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, there were approximately 902.1 million1.645 billion shares of our common stock issued and outstanding. In addition, as of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, there are also (i) stock option grants outstanding for the purchase of 40.612 million common shares at a $0.058$0.010 average strikeexercise price; (ii) warrants for the purchase of 565.0595 million common shares at a $0.035$0.031 average exercise price; and (iii) 235.6207.8 million shares related to convertible debt that can be converted at 0.0070.0036 per share;share. Subsequent to December 31, 2016, (i) Brighton Capital LLC converted debt of $127,148 into 15,893,500 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.008; (ii) During the three months ended March 31, 2017, Chicago Venture converted principal and (iv) 6.0 millioninterest of $1,253,000 into 190,189,197 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007; and (iii) Logic Works converted principal and interest of $291,044 into 82,640,392 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $.004.
In addition, we have an unknown number of common shares to be issued under the TCA and Chicago Venture financing agreements because the number of shares ultimately issued to TCA depends on the price at which TCA converts its debt to shares. The lower the conversion price, the more shares that maywill be issued to a former executive relatedTCA or Chicago Venture upon the conversion of debt to a severance agreement.shares. We are obligatedwon’t know the exact number of shares of stock issued to issue $2 million in common stockTCA or approximately 115.1 million shares relatedChicago Venture until the debt is actually converted to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against us in United States District Court, Central District of California.equity. If all stock option grant, warrant and contingent shares are issued, approximately 1.8642.471 billion of our currently authorized 3 billion shares of common stock will be issued and outstanding. For purposes of estimating the number of shares issuable upon the exercise/conversion of all stock options, warrants and contingent shares, we assumed the number of shares and average share prices detailed above.
These stock option grant, warrant and contingent shares could result in further dilution to common stock holders and may affect the market price of the common stock.
Significant shares of common stock are held by our principal shareholders, other Company insiders and other large shareholders. As affiliates as defined under Rule 144 of the Securities Act or Rule 144 of the Company, our principal shareholders, other Company insiders and other large shareholders may only sell their shares of common stock in the public market pursuant to an effective registration statement or in compliance with Rule 144.
Some of the present shareholders have acquired shares at prices as low as $0.007 per share, whereas other shareholders have purchased their shares at prices ranging from $0.007$0.0036 to $0.78 per share.
These stock option grant, warrant and contingent shares could result in further dilution to common stock holders and may affect the market price of the common stock.
Some of our convertible debentures may require adjustment in the conversion price.
Our 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable, our 7% Convertible Notes Payable and our 6% Convertible Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic WorksNotes may require an adjustment in the current conversion price of $0.0036 per share if we issue common stock, warrants or equity below the price that is reflected in the convertible notes payable. Any adjustment in theThe conversion price also could affectof the convertible notes will have an impact on the market price of theour common stock. Specifically, if under the terms of the convertible notes the conversion price goes down, then the market price, and ultimately the trading price, of our common stock will go down. If under the terms of the convertible notes the conversion price goes up, then the market price, and ultimately the trading price, of our common stock will likely go up. In other words, as the conversion price goes down, so does the market price of our stock. As the conversion price goes up, so presumably does the market price of our stock. The more the conversion price goes down, the more shares are issued upon conversion of the debt which ultimately means the more stock that might flood into the market, potentially causing a further depression of our stock.
We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our capital stock in the foreseeable future.
We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain all of our future earnings, if any, to finance the growth and development of our business, and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our capital stock in the foreseeable future. In addition, the terms of any future debt agreements may preclude us from paying dividends. As a result, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock will be your sole source of gain for the foreseeable future.
Anti-takeover provisions may limit the ability of another party to acquire our company, which could cause our stock price to decline.
Our certificate of incorporation, as amended, our bylaws and Delaware law contain provisions that could discourage, delay or prevent a third party from acquiring our company, even if doing so may be beneficial to our stockholders. In addition, these provisions could limit the price investors would be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock.
We may issue preferred stock that could have rights that are preferential to the rights of common stock that could discourage potentially beneficially transactions to our common shareholders.
An issuance of additional shares of preferred stock could result in a class of outstanding securities that would have preferences with respect to voting rights and dividends and in liquidation over our common stock and could, upon conversion or otherwise, have all of the rights of our common stock. Our Board of Directors' authority to issue preferred stock could discourage potential takeover attempts or could delay or prevent a change in control through merger, tender offer, proxy contest or otherwise by making these attempts more difficult or costly to achieve. The issuance of preferred stock could impair the voting, dividend and liquidation rights of common stockholders without their approval.
If the company were to dissolve or wind-up, holders of our common stock may not receive a liquidation preference.
If we were totoo wind-up or dissolve the Company and liquidate and distribute our assets, our shareholders would share ratably in our assets only after we satisfy any amounts we owe to our creditors. If our liquidation or dissolution were attributable to our inability to profitably operate our business, then it is likely that we would have material liabilities at the time of liquidation or
dissolution. Accordingly, we cannot give you any assurance that sufficient assets will remain available after the payment of our creditors to enable you to receive any liquidation distribution with respect to any shares you may hold.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable. None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Current Operating Leases
UponOn December 7, 2016, we entered into entered into a Consent to Judgement and Settlement Agreement related to our acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, we assumed the lease for the RMH/EGC retail hydroponics store located in Portland, Maine. TheThis Agreement provides for a monthly lease commencement date waspayment of $4,668 through May 2, 2017. If we are in compliance with the Settlement Agreement, we can extend the lease from May 2, 2017 to May 1, 2013 with an expiration date2020 at the monthly lease payment of April 30, 2016. The monthly rent$5,373. We also agreed to a repayment schedule for year one of the lease was $4,917, with monthlypast due rent of $5,065 in year two, and monthly rent of $5,217 in year three of the lease.$70,013. We do not have an option to extend the lease for two three year terms as long it is not in default under the lease.after May 1, 2020.
On October 21, 2013, we entered into a lease agreement for retail space for our retail hydroponics store in Avon (Vail), Colorado. The lease expires on September 30, 2018. Monthly rent for year one of the lease is $2,606 and increases 3.5% per year thereafter through the end of the lease. We do not have an option to extend the lease.
On January 23, 2014, we entered into a lease agreement for retail space for its hydroponics store in Boulder, Colorado. The lease commenced on February 1, 2014 and expires on May 31, 2017. Monthly rent for year one of the lease was $4,051, with monthly rent of $4,173 in year two, $4,298 in year three, and $4,427 for month 37 through 39. We have an option to extend the lease for one three year terms as long it is not in default under the lease.
On June 18, 2014, we rented space at 500 Union Street, Suite 810, Seattle, Washington for our corporate office on a month to month basis at the current monthly payment of $1,700 per month.
Terminated Operating Leases
In May 2011, we entered into a lease for our Phototron business unit to rent a warehouse facility in Gardena, California. The terms of the lease provide for monthly rental expense of $4,065 with annual rent increases through the expiration of the lease on May 31, 2014. During the last twelve months of the lease the monthly rent was $4,313. We terminated this lease as of May 31, 2014.
Upon our acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, we assumed the lease for the RMH/EGC retail hydroponics store located in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The lease commencement date was May 1, 2013 with an expiration date of January 31, 2016. The monthly rent throughout the term of the lease is $2,105. We vacated this store and expect to terminate this lease during 2015.
On June 5, 2013, we entered into a lease to rent office space in Woodland Hills, California for our corporate headquarters. The landlord was 20259 Ventura Blvd LP, which was a previous affiliate of a stockholder of our company. The term was for ninety days and can be renewed, or terminated, by either party with thirty days written notice. The monthly rent was $6,758. We terminated this lease as of June 30, 2014.
On May 30, 2013, we entered into a lease to rent retail space in Woodland Hills, California for its Urban Garden Supply (Soja, Inc.) hydroponics store. The term was for ninety days and can be renewed, or terminated, by either party with ninety days written notice. The monthly rent was $3,257. We terminated this lease as of June 1, 2015.
On August 26, 2013, we entered into a lease agreement for warehouse and retail space for its Greners (Business Bloom, Inc.) business unit in Santa Rosa, California. The lease commencement date was September 1, 2013 with an expiration date of August 31, 2015. The monthly rent is $3,000. We terminated this lease as of November 25, 2014.
On September 23, 2013, we entered into an Assignment and Assumption and Amendment of Lease Agreement for our retail hydroponics store in Peabody, Massachusetts. The original lease between the landlord and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC was assigned from Evergreen Garden Center, LLC to GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. In addition, the term of the lease was extended from the original expiration date of October 31, 2013 to October 31, 2014. The monthly rent remained at $4,500 through October 31, 2014. This lease expired on October 31, 2014.
We are in default on our Portland, Maine and Boulder, Colorado store leases for non-payment of the lease payments and are negotiating with the landlords.
On May 31, 2016, the Company rented space at 5400 Carillon Point, Kirkland, Washington 98033 for $1,539 per month for its corporate office. The Company’s agreement expires May 31, 2017 and can be extended.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are involved in the disputes and legal proceedings described below. In addition, as a public company, we are also potentially susceptible to litigation, such as claims asserting violations of securities laws. Any such claims, with or without merit, if not resolved, could be time-consuming and result in costly litigation. We accrue any contingent liabilities that are likely.
Class Actions Alleging Violations of Federal Securities Laws
Beginning on April 18, 2014, three class action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws were filed against usthe Company in United States District Court, Central District of California (the “Court”). At a hearing held on July 21, 2014, the three class action lawsuits were consolidated into one case with Lawrence Rosen as the lead plaintiff (the “Consolidated Class Action,” styled Romero et al. vs. GrowLife et al.). On May 15, 2014 and August 4, 2014, respectively two shareholder derivative lawsuits were filed against usthe Company with the Court (the “Derivative Actions”). On October 20, 2014, AmTrust North America, our insurer, filed a lawsuit contesting insurance coverage on the above legal proceedings. On January 20, 2015, the Court ordered all of the above actions stayed pending completion of mediation of the dispute.
The parties then worked diligently to finalizeWe accrued $2,000,000 as settlement documentation on the above actions. On April 27, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Consolidated Class Action.
On June 1, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Derivative Actions pursuant to a proposed stipulated settlement agreement.
On August 3, 2015, the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Consolidated Class Action litigation in its entirety. The Consolidated Class Action was thereby dismissed in its entirety with prejudice and without costs.
On August 10, 2015, pursuant to a settlement by and between the Company and AmTrust North America, AmTrust’s lawsuit contesting insurance coverage of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Actions was dismissed in its entirety with prejudice pursuant to a Stipulation for DismissalAction lawsuits alleging violations of Entire Action with Prejudice executed by and between AmTrust andfederal securities laws that were filed against the Company.
On August 17, 2015,Company during the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Derivative Actions in their entirety. The Derivative Actions were thereby dismissed in their entirety with prejudice.
As a result of the foregoing, all litigation discussed herein is resolved in full at this time.
year ending December 31, 2015. We are obligated to issueissued $2 million in common stock or approximately 115.1 million115,141,048 shares relatedof our common stock on April 6, 2016 pursuant to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against us in United States District Court, Central District of California.
Section 16(b) Claims
We received four demand letters from potential plaintiffs regarding alleged Section 16(b) short-swing violations by Sterling Scott in July 2014. We believe the claims are without merit and responded to the Section 16(b) claims accordingly. Two of the four claims have acknowledged our position and have been withdrawn. There has been no response to our position from the remaining two potential plaintiffs.
Sales, Payroll and PayrollOther Tax Liabilities
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, we owe approximately $87,000$129,000 in sales tax and $20,000 in payroll taxes primarily from early 2014.tax.
Potential Convertible Note Defaults
Several of our convertible promissory notes remain outstanding beyond their respective maturity dates. This may trigger an event of default under the respective agreements. We are currently negotiating or operating under payment plans onworking with these liabilities.noteholders to convert their notes into common stock and intends to resolve these outstanding issues as soon as practicable.
Other Legal Proceedings
We are in default on our Portland, Maine and Boulder, Colorado store leaseshave been sued for non-payment of lease payments at closed stores in Boulder, Colorado and we are negotiating with the landlords.Plaistow, New Hampshire. We are currently subject to legal actions with various vendors.
It is possible that additional lawsuits may be filed and served on us.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
General
The following description of our capital stock and provisions of our articles of incorporation and bylaws are summaries and are qualified by reference to our articles of incorporation and the bylaws. We have filed copies of these documents with the SEC as exhibits to our Form 10-K.
Authorized Capital Stock
We have authorized 3,003,000,0003,010,000,000 shares of capital stock, of which 3,000,000,000 are shares of voting common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, and 3,000,00010,000,000 are shares of non-voting preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share. There are no preferred shares issued and the terms have not been determined.
Capital Stock Issued and Outstanding
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, we have issued and outstanding securities on a fully diluted basis:basis, consisting of:
● | 902,116,496 shares of common stock; |
● | Stock option grants for the purchase of 40,570,000 shares of common stock at average exercise price of $0.058; |
● | Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 565,000,000 shares of common stock with expiration dates between November 2018 and July 2019 at an exercise price of $0.035 per share; |
● | 235,575,286 shares of common stock to be issued for the conversion of Convertible Notes Payables with expiration dates between September 2015 and June 2016 at a conversion price of $0.007 per share; |
● | 6,000,000 shares of common stock that may be issued to a former executive related to a severance agreement; and |
● | We are obligated to issue $2 million in common stock or approximately 115,141,048 shares related to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against us in United States District Court, Central District of California. |
● 1,656,120,083 shares of common stock;● Stock option grants for the purchase of 12,010,000 shares of common stock at average exercise price of $0.010;
● Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 595,000,000 shares of common stock with expiration dates between November 2018 and October 2013 at an exercise price of $0.031 per share;
● 207,812,222 shares of common stock to be issued for the conversion of Convertible Notes Payables at a conversion price of $0.0036 per share; and
● An unknown number of common shares to be issued under the TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP and Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. financing agreements.
Voting Common Stock
Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders and do not have cumulative voting rights. An election of directors by our stockholders shall be determined by a plurality of the votes cast by the stockholders entitled to vote on the election. On all other matters, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the stock present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote is required for approval, unless otherwise provided in our articles of incorporation, bylaws or applicable law. Holders of common stock are entitled to receive proportionately any dividends as may be declared by our board of directors, subject to any preferential dividend rights of outstanding preferred stock.
In the event of our liquidation or dissolution, the holders of common stock are entitled to receive proportionately all assets available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all debts and other liabilities and subject to the prior rights of any outstanding preferred stock. Holders of common stock have no preemptive, subscription, redemption or conversion rights. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of common stock are subject to and may be adversely affected by the rights of the holders of shares of any series of preferred stock that we may designate and issue in the future.
Non-Voting Preferred Stock
Under the terms of our articles of incorporation, our board of directors is authorized to issue shares of non-voting preferred stock in one or more series without stockholder approval. Our board of directors has the discretion to determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences, of each series of non-voting preferred stock.
The purpose of authorizing our board of directors to issue non-voting preferred stock and determine itsour rights and preferences is to eliminate delays associated with a stockholder vote on specific issuances. The issuance of non-voting preferred stock, while providing flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions, future financings and other corporate purposes, could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or could discourage a third party from seeking to acquire, a majority of our outstanding voting stock. ThereOther than the Series B and C Preferred Stock discussed below, there are no shares of non-voting preferred stock presently outstanding and we have no present plans to issue any shares of preferred stock.
Series B Preferred Stock Designation
In connection with the Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Board of Directors, on October 21, 2015, approved the authorization of a Series B Preferred Stock as provided in our Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.
The Series B Preferred Stock has authorized 150,000 shares with a stated value equal to $10.00 per share. Dividends payable to other classes of stock are restricted until repayment of the aggregate value of Series B Preferred Stock. Upon our liquidation or dissolution, Series B Preferred Stock has no priority or preference with respect to distributions of any assets by us. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into common stock by dividing the stated value of the shares being converted by 100% of the average of the five lowest closing bid prices for the common stock during the ten consecutive trading days immediately preceding the conversion date as quoted by Bloomberg, LP.
TCA was issued 150,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. However, in no event will Purchaser be entitled to hold in excess of 4.99% of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company.
In connection with the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, TCA surrendered the Series B Preferred Stock.
Series C Preferred Stock Designation
In connection with the Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Board of Directors, on October 21, 2015, approved the authorization of a Series C Preferred Stock as provided in our Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and the issuance of 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock. These shares only have voting rights in the event of a default by us under the Amended and Restated Transaction Documents. The Series C Preferred Stock is cancelled with the repayment of the TCA debt.
The Series C Preferred Stock Designation authorizes 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock. Series C Preferred Stock is not entitled to dividend or liquidation rights and is not convertible into our common stock.
In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated Transaction Documents, each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall have voting votes equal to 0.019607 multiplied by the total issued and outstanding common stock and preferred stock eligible to vote divided by .49 minus the numerator. For example, if the total issued and outstanding common stock eligible to vote is 5,000,000, the voting rights of one share of Series C Preferred Stock shall be equal to 102,036 (e.g. ((0.019607 x 5,000,000/0.49) – (0.019607 x 5,000,000) = 102,036). In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated TCA Transaction Documents, TCA can exercise voting control over our common stock.
On February 1, 2017, GrowLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), closed the transactions described below with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. (“Chicago Venture”).
In connection with the closing of the Chicago Venture transactions which closed on February 1, 2017, TCA surrendered the Series C Preferred Stock.
Warrants to Purchase Common Stock
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, we had warrants to purchase an aggregate of 565,000,000595,000,000 shares of common stock with expiration dates between November 2018 and July 2019October 2013 at an average exercise price of $0.035$0.031 per share are outstanding.share.
Options to Purchase Common Stock
In fiscal year 2011, we authorized a Stock Incentive Plan whereby a maximum of 18,870,184 shares of the Company’s common stock could be granted in the form of Non-Qualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and Other Stock-Based Awards. On April 18, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors voted to increase to 35,000,000 the maximum allowable shares of the Company’s common stock allocated to the 2011 Stock Incentive Plan. After the exercise of stock option grants, we have 27,522,626 shares available for issuance. We have outstanding unexercised stock option grants totaling 40,570,00012,010,000 shares at an average exercise price of $0.058$0.010 per share as of September 30, 2015.December 31, 2016. All grants are considered non-qualified until the increase is approved by the shareholders.
Dividend Policy
We have not previously paid any cash dividends on our common stock and do not anticipate or contemplate paying dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to use all of our available funds to develop our business. We can give no assurances that we will ever have excess funds available to pay dividends.
Change in Control Provisions
Our articles of incorporation and by-laws provide for a maximum of nine directors, and the size of the Board cannot be increased by more than three directors in any calendar year. There is no provision for classification or staggered terms for the members of the Board of Directors.
Our articles of incorporation also provide that except to the extent the provisions of Delaware General Corporation Law require a greater voting requirement, any action, including the amendment of the Company’s articles or bylaws, the approval of a plan of merger or share exchange, the sale, lease, exchange or other disposition of all or substantially all of the Company’s property other than in the usual and regular course of business, shall be authorized if approved by a simple majority of stockholders, and if a separate voting group is required or entitled to vote thereon, by a simple majority of all the votes entitled to be cast by that voting group.
Our bylaws provide that only the Chief Executive Officer or a majority of the Board of Directors may call a special meeting. The bylaws do not permit the stockholders of the Company to call a special meeting of the stockholders for any purpose.
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws Provisions
Our articles of incorporation, as amended, and bylaws contain provisions that could have the effect of discouraging potential acquisition proposals or tender offers or delaying or preventing a change in control, including changes a stockholder might consider favorable. In particular, our articles of incorporation and bylaws among other things:
● | permit our board of directors to alter our bylaws without stockholder approval; and |
● | ● permit our board of directors to alter our bylaws without stockholder approval; and ● provide that vacancies on our board of directors may be filled by a majority of directors in office, although less than a quorum. |
Such provisions may have the effect of discouraging a third-partythird party from acquiring us, even if doing so would be beneficial to our stockholders. These provisions are intended to enhance the likelihood of continuity and stability in the composition of our board of directors and in the policies formulated by them, and to discourage some types of transactions that may involve an actual or threatened change in control of our company. These provisions are designed to reduce our vulnerability to an unsolicited acquisition proposal and to discourage some tactics that may be used in proxy fights. We believe that the benefits of increased protection of our potential ability to negotiate with the proponent of an unfriendly or unsolicited proposal to acquire or restructure our company outweigh the disadvantages of discouraging such proposals because, among other things, negotiation of such proposals could result in an improvement of their terms.
However, these provisions could have the effect of discouraging others from making tender offers for our shares that could result from actual or rumored takeover attempts. These provisions also may have the effect of preventing changes in our management.
Market Price of and Dividends on Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters
Our common stock tradestraded on the grey market under the symbol “PHOT.”“PHOT” through February 17, 2016. While the company is currentlywas without a market maker, its stock does trade directly between buyers and sellers on the grey sheets. The quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail markup, markdown or commission, and may not represent actual transactions. Consequently, the information provided below maywas not be indicative of our common stock price under different conditions.
| Period Ended | | High | | | Low | |
| Year Ending December 31, 2015 | | | | | | |
| Through September 24, 2015 | | $ | 0.18 | | | $ | 0.01 | |
| June 30, 2015 | | $ | 0.06 | | | $ | 0.01 | |
| March 31, 2015 | | $ | 0.35 | | | $ | 0.02 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ending December 31, 2014 | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2014 | | $ | 0.36 | | | $ | 0.01 | |
| September 30, 2014 | | $ | 0.80 | | | $ | 0.01 | |
| June 30, 2014 | | $ | 0.64 | | | $ | 0.06 | |
| March 31, 2014 | | $ | 0.78 | | | $ | 0.16 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, 2013 | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2013 | | $ | 0.16 | | | $ | 0.05 | |
| September 30, 2013 | | $ | 0.06 | | | $ | 0.03 | |
| June 30, 2013 | | $ | 0.06 | | | $ | 0.01 | |
| March 31, 2013 | | $ | 0.12 | | | $ | 0.04 | |
On February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently taking the appropriate steps to uplist to the OTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is able.
| Period Ended | | |
| Year Ending December 31, 2016 | | |
| December 31, 2016 | $0.021 | $0.007 |
| September 30, 2016 | $0.020 | $0.006 |
| June 30, 2016 | $0.027 | $0.015 |
| March 31, 2016 | $0.058 | $0.003 |
| | | |
| Year Ending December 31, 2015 | | |
| December 31, 2015 | $0.020 | $0.003 |
| September 30, 2015 | $0.180 | $0.010 |
| June 30, 2015 | $0.060 | $0.010 |
| March 31, 2015 | $0.350 | $0.020 |
As of September 24, 2015,March 27, 2017, the closing price of the company's common stock was $0.010 per share. As of September 30, 2015,March 31, 2017, there were 902,116,4961,944,843,172 shares of common stock outstanding held byissued and outstanding. We have approximately 116112 stockholders of record. This number does not include theup to approximately 15,00015,000-80,000 beneficial owners whose shares are held in the names of various security brokers, dealers, and registered clearing agencies.
Transfer Agent
The transfer agent for our common stock is Issuer Direct Corporation located 500 Perimeter Park, Suite D, Morrisville NC 27560, and their telephone number is (919) 481-4000.
Dividends
We have not previously paid any cash dividends on our common stock and do not anticipate or contemplate paying dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to use all of our available funds to develop our business. We can give no assurances that we will ever have excess funds available to pay dividends.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
During the three months ended December 31, 2014, we had the following sales of unregistered sales of equity securities.
Unless otherwise indicated, all of the following sales or issuances of Company securities were conducted under the exemption from registration as provided under Section 4(2)4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 (and also qualified for exemption under 4(5), formerly 4(6) of the Securities Act of 1933, except as noted below).1933. All of the shares issued were issued in transactions not involving a public offering, are considered to be restricted stock as defined in Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933 and stock certificates issued with respect thereto bear legends to that effect.
We have compensated consultants and service providers with restricted common stock during the development of our business and when our capital resources were not adequate to provide payment in cash.
We issued 400,000During the three months ended December 31, 2016, we had the following sales of unregistered sales of equity securities.
On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott, our Chief Financial Officer, converted $40,000 in accrued consulting fees and expenses into 4,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott was granted 6,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share.
On October 12, 2016, we issued 4,000,000 shares of its common stock to consultants and employeesan entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, Chief Executive Officer pursuant to a conversion of debt for services$40,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.053$0.01 per share.
On October 21, 2016, we issued 5,020,000 shares to two former directors and a supplier (unaccredited) for services provided. We valued the 5,020,000 shares at $0.01 per share or $50,200.
During the three months ended December 31, 2016, we issued 1,600,0005,000,000 shares of its common stock relating to the conversiona service provider pursuant to conversions of liabilities$50,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.05$0.010 per share.
During the three months ended December 31, 2016, Holders of our Convertible Notes Payables, converted principal and accrued interest of $235,682 into 65,467,127 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.004.
During the three months ended December 31, 2016, Old Main converted principal and accrued interest of $44,208 into 12,365,872 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.004.
During the three months ended December 31, 2016, Chicago Venture converted principal and accrued interest of $1,275,599 into 242,300,607 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0053.
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
The following table provides information as of December 31, 20142016 related to the equity compensation plan in effect at that time.
| | | | |
| Plan Category | Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plan (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) |
| Equity compensation plan | | | |
| approved by shareholders | - | - | - |
| Equity compensation plans | | | |
| not approved by shareholders | 12,010,000 | 0.010 | - |
| Total | 12,010,000 | 0.010 | - |
| | | (a) | | | (b) | | | (c) | |
| Plan Category | | Number of securities to be issued upon | | | Weighted-average exercise price of | | | Number of securities remaining available | |
| Equity compensation plan | | | | | | | | | |
| approved by shareholders | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | |
| Equity compensation plans | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| not approved by shareholders | | | 40,720,000 | | | | 0.058 | | | | - | |
| Total | | | 40,720,000 | | | | 0.058 | | | | - | |
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
In the following table, we provide you with our selected consolidated historical financial and other data. We have prepared the consolidated selected financial information using our consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2014, 20132016 and 2012.2015. When you read this selected consolidated historical financial and other data, it is important that you read along with it the historical financial statements and related notes in our consolidated financial statements included in this report, as well as Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
| | | Years Ended December 31, | |
| | | 2014 | | | 2013 | | | 2012 | |
| | | (Audited) | | | (Audited) | | | (Audited) | |
| STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: | | | | | | | | | |
| Net revenue | | $ | 8,538 | | | $ | 4,859 | | | $ | 1,451 | |
| Cost of goods sold | | | 7,173 | | | | 4,006 | | | | 1,039 | |
| Gross profit | | | 1,365 | | | | 853 | | | | 412 | |
| General and administrative expenses | | | 7,851 | | | | 11,796 | | | | 1,683 | |
| Operating (loss) | | | (6,486 | ) | | | (10,943 | ) | | | (1,271 | ) |
| Other expense | | | (80,140 | ) | | | (10,437 | ) | | | (915 | ) |
| Net (loss) | | $ | (86,626 | ) | | $ | (21,380 | ) | | $ | (2,186 | ) |
| Net (loss) per share | | $ | (0.10 | ) | | $ | (0.04 | ) | | $ | (0.01 | ) |
| Weighted average number of shares | | | 834,503,868 | | | | 593,034,693 | | | | 245,420,970 | |
21
| | |
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: | | | | | |
| Net revenue | $1,231 | $3,500 | $8,538 | $4,859 | $1,451 |
| Cost of goods sold | 1,276 | 2,981 | 7,173 | 4,006 | 1,039 |
| Gross profit | (45) | 519 | 1,365 | 853 | 412 |
| General and administrative expenses | 2,764 | 2,684 | 7,851 | 11,796 | 1,683 |
| Operating (loss) | (2,809) | (2,165) | (6,486) | (10,943) | (1,271) |
| Other expense | (4,886) | (3,524) | (80,140) | (10,437) | (915) |
| Net (loss) | $(7,695) | $(5,689) | $(86,626) | $(21,380) | $(2,186) |
| Net (loss) per share | $(0.01) | $(0.01) | $(0.10) | $(0.04) | $(0.01) |
| Weighted average number of shares | 1,197,565,907 | 884,348,627 | 834,503,868 | 593,034,693 | 245,420,970 |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our goal of becoming the nation’s largest cultivation facility service provider for the production of organics, herbs and greens and plant-based medicines has not changed.continues to guide our decisions. Our mission is to best serve more cultivators in the design, build-out, expansion and maintenance of their facilities with products of high quality, exceptional value and competitive price. Through a nationwide network of localknowledgeable representatives, regional fulfillment centers and its e-Commerce team,e-commerce website, GrowLife provides essential and hard-to-find goods and services including growing media, (i.e., farming soil), industry-leading hydroponics equipment, organic plant nutrients, and thousands more products to specialty grow operations starting with 17 states.across the United States.
We primarily sell through our wholly owned subsidiary, GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. In addition to the promotion and sales of GrowLife owned brands, GrowLife companies distribute and sell over 3,00015,000 products through its eCommercee-commerce distribution channel, Greners.com, our on-line superstore,GrowLifeEco.com, and through our regional retail storefronts that serve as regional fulfillment centers.storefronts. GrowLife and its business units are organized and directed to operate strictly in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws.
We grew throughare focusing on future success. In that regard, we believe that the hydroponics supply industry will experience significant growth and, as a series of acquisitionsresult, operating in 2012this industry has become highly competitive, cash intensive and 2013 leadingcustomer centric. However, we have plans to seven retail stores. In 2013, we expectedaddress these challenges.
First, the opportunity to grow throughsell both infrastructure equipment and recurring supplies to the following three key initiatives (i) expanding to 30 retail stores at an expected average annual revenue of $1.25 million with 12 stores in 2014 resulting in sales of $15 million; (ii) educating the investment community of theindoor cultivation industry is constantly increasing as demand for indoor cultivation grows across the United States. We believe the demand will continue to grow and more and more states and municipalities enact rules and regulations allowing for more indoor cultivation activities. We plan to continue with our multi-faceted distribution strategy, which we believe serves customers in the following manner: Direct sales to large commercial customers, retail in some markets for local convenience, and e-commerce via GrowLifeEco.com to fulfill orders across the nation from customers of all sizes.
Second, serving what we see as an increasing number of cultivators has become cash intensive because of the need for large inventory levels at retail, extensive e-commerce online marketing, and supporting payment terms to large accounts. We need to arrange for financing support to be competitive. We have learned that retail success is about having the right products on hand, knowledgeable and experienced talent, accessible advisory services and superior turn-over ratios. Currently, GrowLifeEco.com offers over 15,000 products, far beyond the 3,000 found in Greners.com, its former online store.
Third, our customers come in different stages from caregiver cultivators to 80,000 square foot commercial operations. With the use of e-commerce, we endeavor to reach as many customers as possible in areas where we do not have stores or a direct sales presence. Earlier this year GrowLife built GrowLifeEco.com, our new e-commerce website, that is optimized for mobile devices. Our next step is to put web marketing in place to increase awareness, traffic and conversions.
Also, we recognize demand is increasing from small, aspiring cultivation consumers across the country seeking to learn and use a complete indoor growing equipmentsolution. To address this demand, we packaged GrowLife Cube, a development-stage annual subscription service, for consumers to get hands-on experience with indoor growing. Although many still buy the components separately, we are working on developing videos and supplier tools to attract them to this one-stop shop subscription program. Given the election results in California the GrowLife Cube subscription service will evolve with greater value and specialty services to be announced in the fourth quarter.
Resumed Trading of our Common Stock
On February 18, 2016, our common stock resumed unsolicited quotation on the OTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the legal cannabis industry; and (iii) engaging a joint venture investor willingFinancial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on our Form 15c2-11. We are currently taking the appropriate steps to provide financial resources for acquisitions and strategic investments. These three initiatives were expected to help position us as the leading supplier and participating investoruplist to the emerging legal cannabis industryOTCQB Exchange and were therefore announced and allocated their own resources.resume priced quotations with market makers as soon as it is able.
The retail expansion plan, starting in July 2013, was expected to maintain the pre-acquisition revenue pace of GrowLife Hydroponic’s earlier purchase of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“RMC”), and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, a Maine limited liability company (“EGC”), and generate sales of $5.5 million in 2013. For several reasons, GrowLife Hydroponics experienced achieved 2013 revenue at $4.8 million. In addition, GrowLife Hydroponics opened two more stores in Plaistow, New Hampshire and Peabody, Massachusetts. This seven store expansion across five states exposed three issues with the retail expansion plan: (i) the cost of inventory, integration and ramp up in offsetting revenue was understated; (ii) the laws, policies and resulting customer purchase process across the five states varied greatly and lowered the expected economies of scale; and (iii) the competitive hydroponic supplier market lowered expected operating margins. The lack of financial resources to offset the operating losses from the retail expansion initiative led to a change of plan.
An education initiative was formed where we engaged Grass Roots Research and Distribution, Inc., a market research and marketing firm, to study our 2013 plan, the emerging growth of the legal Cannabis industry and estimate the possible financial impact to GrowLife and its valuation. Sets of reports were published and supported with GrowLife press releases to educate the new industry and generate greater awareness of GrowLife. While this initiative proved successful in 2013, we ceased to engage Grass Roots in 2014, after we changed our business strategy.
The third investor initiative was formed in November 2013, through the Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a joint venture, between GrowLife and CANX USA LLC (“CANX”). CANX would provide the financial resources for OGI to facilitate acquisitions and strategic investments. GrowLife issued warrants for 240 million GrowLife shares to CANX and CANX would provide up to $40 million in mutually agreed upon investments, $1 million in a convertible note and a $1.3 million commitment towards the GrowLife Infrastructure Funding & Technology (“GIFT”) program. GrowLife received the $1 million as a convertible note in December 2013, received the $1.3 million commitment but not executed and by January 2014 OGI had Letters of Intent with four investment and acquisition transactions valued at $96 million. Before the deals could close, the SEC put a trading halt in April 10, 2014, which resulted in the withdrawal of all transactions. The business disruption from the trading halt and the resulting class action and derivative lawsuits ceased further investments with the OGI joint venture.
Starting in June 2014 we focused on cost reductions with minimal revenue loss has been our focus. The primary reduction in operating costs came from (i) streamlining non-profitable personnel, lowering expenses by replacing the Woodland Hills, California headquarters with that of Seattle, Washington that serves more people at a lower cost; (ii) closed the unprofitable Peabody, Massachusetts, Woodland Hills, California and Plaistow, New Hampshire stores; (iii) relocated the Greners eCommerce operation from Santa Rosa, California to the Boulder, Colorado store until a new Denver facility is set up; (iv) reducing full-time employees from 46 to 8 as of September 30, 2015; and (v) closing the Phototron subsidiary in California. While transition costs were paid out, the repurposing of company resources is expected to reduce our operating expenses and allows for greater market reach and efficiencies.
However, the challenges of operating a public company under the strains gray market trading and lawsuits, that are in negotiations, as well as limited access to investment capital kept the company lean. We also chose to convert about three months of inventory into cash. This reduced our inventory level from $1.8 million to $924,000 and lowered our gross margins to 16.5%. This conscientious decision was made to help us transition through this period. As for our $7.7 million of our general and administrative expenses, there were approximately $3.6 million in non-recurring/non-cash stock expenses, which resulted in net cash expenses at approximately $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.
We remain focused on hiring the best people to expand our direct sales personnel. These personnel are knowledgeable in using the most progressive growing technologies that fit our customer’s needs. Whether they are small-scale local cultivation facilities or large-scale regional cultivators, our customer service team recommends smart medium, cost-effective lighting and ventilation, and the right nutrients that are best suited for the crop objective. Our knowledge layer is strategic for the evolution of the indoor growing industry. Unlike an outdoor superstore, GrowLife serves the specialty cultivation business as indoor crops are designed to deliver multiple grow cycles with greater quality and yield not available in outdoor agriculture. Technologies will be available to provide our customers with a way to further tune their ordering process and crop development using their own experience.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table presents certain consolidated statement of operations information and presentation of that data as a percentage of change from year-to-year.
(dollars in thousands)
| | | | Years Ended December 31, | | |
| | | | 2014 | | | 2013 | | | $ Variance | | | % Variance | | | | | |
| Net revenue | Net revenue | | $ | 8,538 | | | $ | 4,859 | | | $ | 3,679 | | | | 75.7 | % | $1,231 | $3,500 | $(2,269) | -64.8% |
| Cost of goods sold | Cost of goods sold | | | 7,173 | | | | 4,006 | | | | 3,167 | | | | -79.1 | % | 1,276 | 2,981 | (1,705) | 57.2% |
| Gross profit | Gross profit | | | 1,365 | | | | 853 | | | | 512 | | | | 60.0 | % | (45) | 519 | (564) | -108.7% |
| General and administrative expenses | General and administrative expenses | | | 7,851 | | | | 11,796 | | | | (3,945 | ) | | | 33.4 | % | 2,764 | 2,684 | 80 | -3.0% |
| Operating loss | Operating loss | | | (6,486 | ) | | | (10,943 | ) | | | 4,457 | | | | 40.7 | % | (2,809) | (2,165) | (644) | -29.7% |
| Other income (expense): | Other income (expense): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Impairment of goodwill | | | - | | | | (280 | ) | | | 280 | | | | 100.0 | % | |
| | Impairment of intangible assets | | | - | | | | (262 | ) | | | 262 | | | | 100.0 | % | |
| | Loss on extinguishment of debt | | | - | | | | (961 | ) | | | 961 | | | | 100.0 | % | |
| | Change in fair value of derivative | | | (16,253 | ) | | | (3,701 | ) | | | (12,552 | ) | | | -339.2 | % | |
| | Other income | | | - | | | | 42 | | | | (42 | ) | | | -100.0 | % | |
| | Realized gain on sale of investment | | | 187 | | | | - | | | | 187 | | | | 100.0 | % | |
| | Interest expense, net | | | (64,074 | ) | | | (5,275 | ) | | | (58,799 | ) | | | -1114.7 | % | |
| Total other income (expense) | | | (80,140 | ) | | | (10,437 | ) | | | (69,703 | ) | | | -667.8 | % | |
| Income (loss) before income taxes | | | (86,626 | ) | | | (21,380 | ) | | | (65,246 | ) | | | -305.2 | % | |
| | Income taxes - current benefit | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 0.0 | % | |
| Net income (loss) | | $ | (86,626 | ) | | $ | (21,380 | ) | | $ | (65,246 | ) | | | -305.2 | % | |
| Change in fair value of derivative | | (1,324) | 1,679 | (3,003) | -178.9% |
| Interest expense, net | | (817) | (1,119) | 302 | 27.0% |
| Other income (expense), primarily related to TCA funding | | 145 | (2,003) | 2,148 | 107.2% |
| Loss on debt conversions | | (2,890) | - | (2,890) | -100.0% |
| Loss on class action lawsuit settlements | | - | (2,081) | 2,081 | 100.0% |
| Total other (expense) income | | (4,886) | (3,524) | (1,362) | 38.6% |
| (Loss) before income taxes | | (7,695) | (5,689) | (2,006) | -35.3% |
| Income taxes - current benefit | | - | 0.0% |
| Net (loss) | | $(7,695) | $(5,689) | $(2,006) | -35.3% |
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20142016 COMPARED TO THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20132015
Revenue
Net revenue for the year ended December 31, 2014 increased $3,679,0002016 decreased $2,269,000 to $8,538,000$1,231,000 as compared to $4,859,000$3,500,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. The increasedecrease was due to (i) lower revenue from the retail stores acquired by GrowLife Hydroponics’ acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Evergreen Garden Center on JuneSeptember 7, 2013.2013; (ii) closure of the unprofitable Peabody, Massachusetts, Woodland Hills, California and Plaistow, New Hampshire stores; and (iii) lack of liquidity. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we transitioned funding from TCA funding to Chicago Venture. During the transition, we experienced difficulties in purchasing product and lost or canceled sales.
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2014 increased $3,167,0002016 decreased $1,705,000 to $7,173,000$1,276,000 as compared to $4,006,000$2,981,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. The increasedecrease was due to increased sales, selling our products at a higher discount(i) lower revenue from the retail stores acquired by GrowLife Hydroponics’ acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Evergreen Garden Center on September 7, 2013; (ii) closure of the liquidationunprofitable Peabody, Massachusetts, Woodland Hills, California and Plaistow, New Hampshire stores; and (iii) lack of inventory at lower margins duringliquidity. During the year ended December 31, 2014.2016, we transitioned funding from TCA funding to Chicago Venture. During the transition, we experienced difficulties in purchasing product and ordered product at higher costs and lost or canceled sales.
Gross profit was $1,365,000($45,000) for the year ended December 31, 20142016 as compared to $853,000$519,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. The gross margin was 16.0%(3.6%) for the year ended December 31, 20142016 as compared to 17.6%14.8% for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease was due to selling our products at a higher discount and the liquidation of inventory at lower margins during2015. During the year ended December 31, 2014.2016, we transitioned funding from TCA funding to Chicago Venture. During the transition, we experienced difficulties in purchasing product and ordered product at higher costs and lost or canceled sales.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 decreased $3,945,0002016 increased $80,000 to $7,851,000$2,764,000 as compared to $11,796,000$2,684,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. The decreaseincrease was due to decreased warrant(i) the impairment of GrowLife Hydro, Inc. long-lived assets of $876,000; (ii) and an increase in sales and marketing of $76,000; offset by (iii) reduced legal expense of (i) $7,015,000; offset by (ii) increased payroll$48,000; (iv) reduced wages of $260,000; (v) reduced insurance expense of $1,242,000; increased stock based compensation of $1,252,000; (iii) increased stock option expense of $576,000; (iv) increased legal$188,000; (vi) reduced consulting expenses of $598,000;$143,000; (vii) reduced rent of $78,000; and (v) and increased of(viii) reduced other general expenses of $598,000.$243,000. As part of the general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, we recorded investor relation expenses of $627,000 and did not record any public relation, investor relation or business development expenses.
The increase related to the retail stores acquired in our acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Evergreen Garden Center on June 7, 2013, legal expenses associated with our legal proceedings and stock based compensation related stock option grants.
Non-cash general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 totaled $3,583,000, with2016 were $1,422,000 including (i) depreciation and amortization of $140,000;$115,000; (ii) stock based compensation of $724,000$146,000 related to stock option grants; (iii) increased common stock issued for services expenses of $2,721,000;$285,000; and (iv) change in inventory reservethe impairment of $13,000.GrowLife Hydro, Inc. long-lived assets of $876,000.
Non-cash general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2013 totaled $1,792,000,2015 was $531,000, with (i) depreciation and amortization of $174,000;$120,000; (ii) stock based compensation of $149,000; and$176,000 related to stock option grants; (iii) increased common stock issued for services expenses of $1,469,000.$211,000; and (iii) other of $24,000.
Other Income/ Expense
Other expense for the year ended December 31, 20142016 was $80,140,000$4,886,000 as compared to other expense of $10,437,000$3,524,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. The expensesother expense for the year ended December 31, 20142016 included loss on change – derivative liability warrants of $16,253,000 and(i) interest expense of $64,074,000,$817,000; (ii) loss on debt conversions of $2,890,000; (iii) change in derivative liability of $1,324,000; offset by (iv) and other income of $145,000. The change in derivative liability is the realized gain onnon-cash change in the salefair value and relates to our derivative instruments. The non-cash interest related to the amortization of investment of $187,000.the debt discount associated with our convertible notes and accrued interest expense related to our notes payable. The loss on change-debt conversions related to the conversion of our notes payable at prices below the market price.
The other expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 included change in derivative liability of $1,679,000, offset by interest expense of $1,119,000, other expense of $2,003,000 and loss on class action lawsuit settlements of $2,081,000. The change in derivative liability is the non-cash change in the fair value and relates to our derivative instruments. The non-cash interest related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with our convertible notes, accrued interest expense related to our notes payablepayable. The other expense is primarily related to the TCA funding. We accrued $2,081,000 as loss on class action lawsuits and the issuancecontingent liabilities as of a 100,000,000 share warrant to CANX in February 7, 2014 and a 300,000,000 share warrant to CANX on July 10, 2014.December 31, 2015.
Other expenseNet (Loss)
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 20132016 was $7,695,000 as compared to a net loss of $5,689,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015 for the reasons discussed above.
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 included interestnon-cash expense of $5,275,000, loss on extinguishment$6,271,000, including (i) depreciation and amortization of $115,000; (ii) stock based compensation of $146,000 related to stock option grants; (iii) common stock issued for services of $285,000; (iv) the impairment of GrowLife Hydro, Inc. long-lived assets of $876,000; (v) accrued interest and amortization of debt of $961,000 and change in fair value of derivative of $3,701,000, impairment of goodwill of $280,000 and impairment of intangible assets of $262,000, offset by other income of $42,000. The lossdiscount on change- derivative liability is the non-cash change in the fair value and relates to our derivative instruments. The non-cash interest related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with our convertible notes payable of $635,000; (v) loss on debt conversions of $2,890,000; and (vi) change in derivative liability of accrued interest expense related to our notes payable.$1,324,000.
Net (Loss)
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $86,626,0002015 as compared to a net lossincluded non-cash expense of $21,380,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013 for the reasons discussed above. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 non-cash expenses of $83,883,000,$3,759,000, including (i) loss on change – derivative liability of $16,253,000; (ii) depreciation and amortization of $140,000; (iii)$120,000; (ii) stock based compensation of $724,000$176,000 related to stock option grants; (iv) common stock issued for services expenses of $2,722,000; (v) change in inventory reserve of $13,000; and (vi) interest expense of $64,046,000, offset by the realized gain on the sale of investment of $187,000.
The net loss for the year ended December 31, 2013 included non-cash expenses of $19,341,000 consisting of (i) loss on change – derivative liability of $3,701,000; (ii) depreciation and amortization of $174,000; (iii) common stock issued for services expenses of $1,469,000;$211,000; (iv) warrant expensesinterest expense of $7,015,000;$1,120,000, (v) amortization of debt discount of $5,106,000; (vi) stock based compensation of $149,000; (vii) impairment of goodwill of $280,000 and impairment of intangible assets of $262,000; (viii) loss on extinguishmentclass action lawsuit settlements of debt$2,000,000; (vi) preferred shares issued for services of $961,000;$300,000; (vii) issuance of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of $1,500,000; and (viii) other of $176,000, offset by (ix) other expenseschange in derivative liability of $224,000.$724,000.
We expect losses to continue as we implement our business plan.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We had cash of $286,000$103,000 and a net working capital deficit of approximately $(1,018,000)$4,007,000 (excluding the derivative liability- warrants of $2,101,000$2,702,000 as of December 31, 2014.2016. We expect losses to continue as we grow our business. Our cash used in operations for the yearyears ended December 31, 20142016 and 2015 was $2,123,000.$1,212,000, $1,376,000, respectively.
Shortly after the SEC suspended trading of our securities on April 10, 2014, some of our primary suppliers rescinded our credit terms and required us to pay cash for our product purchases and pay down our outstanding balance with these suppliers.
We will need to obtain additional financing in the future. There can be no assurance that we will be able to secure funding, or that if such funding is available, the terms or conditions would be acceptable to us. If we are unable to obtain additional financing, we may need to restructure our operations, divest all or a portion of our business or file for bankruptcy.
We have financed our operations through the issuance of convertible debentures and the sale of common stock.
TransactionsFebruary 1, 2017 Funding Agreements with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P.
On February 1, 2017, we closed the transactions described below with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. (“Chicago Venture”).
Securities Purchase Agreement, Secured Promissory Notes, Membership Interest Pledge Agreement and Security Agreement
On January 9, 2017, the Company executed the following agreements with Chicago Venture: (i) Securities Purchase Agreement; (ii) Secured Promissory Notes; (iii) Membership Interest Pledge Agreement; and (iv) Security Agreement (collectively the “Chicago Venture Agreements”). The Chicago Venture Agreements are attached hereto, collectively, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 7, 2017, and incorporated herein by reference. The Company entered into the Chicago Venture Agreements with the intent of paying its debt, in full, to TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”), which included any TCA affiliates.
The total amount of funding under the Chicago Venture Agreements is $1,105,000 (the “Debt”). Each Convertible Promissory Note carries an original issue discount of $100,000 and a transaction expense amount of $5,000, for total debt of $1,105,000. The Company agreed to reserve 500,000,000 of its shares of common stock for issuance upon conversion of the Debt, if that occurs in the future. If not converted sooner, the Debt is due on or before January 9, 2018. The Debt carries an interest rate of ten percent (10%). The Debt is convertible, at Chicago Venture’s option, into the Company’s common stock at $0.009 per share subject to adjustment as provided for in the Secured Promissory Notes attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference. As of the date of this report on Form 8-K, Chicago Venture has funded the entire amount of the Debt.
Chicago Venture’s obligation to fund the Debt was secured by Chicago Venture’s 60% interest in Typenex Medical, LLC, an Illinois corporation, as provided for in the Membership Pledge Agreement attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
Payment of All TCA Obligations
On January 10, 2017, Chicago Venture, at the Company’s instruction, remitted funds of $1,495,901 to TCA in order to satisfy all debts to TCA. On or around January 11, 2017, the Company was notified by TCA that $13,540 were due to TCA in order for TCA to release its security interest in the Company’s assets. On February 1, 2017, TCA notified the Company that all funds were received and TCA would release its security interest in Company’s assets. TCA has confirmed that it is paid in full and the Company is not aware of any other obligations that the Company has as to TCA. The funds received under the Chicago Venture Agreements and previous Chicago Venture Agreements were used to pay-off TCA.
Prior Funding Agreements with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P.
Entry into Securities Purchase Agreement with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. As of April 4, 2016, we entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement and Convertible Promissory Note (the “Chicago Venture Note”) with Chicago Venture, whereby we agreed to sell, and Chicago Venture agreed to purchase an unsecured convertible promissory note in the original principal amount of $2,755,000. In connection with the transaction, we received $350,000 in cash as well as a series of twelve Secured Investor Notes for a total Purchase Price of $2,500,000. The Note carries an Original Issue Discount (“OID”) of $250,000 and we agreed to pay $5,000 to cover Purchaser’s legal fees, accounting costs and other transaction expenses.
The Secured Investor Notes are payable (i) $50,000 upon filing of a Registration Statement on Form S-1; (ii) $100,000 upon effectiveness of the Registration Statement; and (iii) up to $200,000 per month over the 10 months following effectiveness at our sole discretion, subject to certain conditions. We agreed to file the Registration Statement within forty-five (45) days of the Closing and agreed to register shares of our common stock for the benefit of Chicago Venture in exchange for the payments under the Secured Investor Notes.
Chicago Venture has the option to convert the Note at 65% of the average of the three (3) lowest volume weighted average prices in the twenty (20) Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion (the “Conversion Price”). However, in no event will the Conversion Price be less than $0.02 or greater than $0.09. In addition, beginning on the date that is the earlier of six (6) months or five (5) days after the Registration Statement becomes effective, and on the same day of each month thereafter, the Company will re-pay the Note in monthly installments in cash, or, subject to certain Equity Conditions, in our common stock at 65% of the average of the three (3) lowest volume weighted average prices in the twenty (20) Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion (the “Installment Conversion Price”).
As discussed above, once effective, we have the discretion to require Chicago Venture to sell to us up to $200,000 per month over the next 10 months on the above terms. We would then have the option to issue shares registered under this Registration Statement to Chicago Venture. Through this prospectus, the selling stockholder may offer to the public for resale shares of our common stock that we may issue to Chicago Venture pursuant to the Chicago Venture Note.
For a period of no more than 36 months from the effective date of the Registration Statement, we may, from time to time, at our sole discretion, and subject to certain conditions that we must satisfy, draw down funds under the Chicago Venture Note.
Our ability to require Chicago Venture to fund the Chicago Venture Note is at our discretion, subject to certain limitations. Chicago Venture is obligated to fund if each of the following conditions are met; (i) the average and median daily dollar volumes of our common stock for the twenty (20) and sixty (60) trading days immediately preceding the funding date are greater than $100,000; (ii) our market capitalization on the funding date is greater than $17,000,000; (iii) we are not in default with respect to share delivery obligations under the note as of the funding date; and (iv) we are current in its reporting obligations. Chicago Venture’ obligations under the equity line are not transferable.
The issuance of our common stock under the Chicago Venture Note will have no effect on the rights or privileges of existing holders of common stock except that the economic and voting interests of each stockholder will be diluted as a result of any such issuance. Although the number of shares of common stock that stockholders presently own will not decrease, these shares will represent a smaller percentage of our total shares that will be outstanding after any issuances of shares of common stock to Chicago Venture. If we draw down amounts under the Chicago Venture Note when our share price is decreasing, we will need to issue more shares to repay the same amount than if our stock price was higher. Such issuances will have a dilutive effect and may further decrease our stock price.
There is no guarantee that we will be able to meet the foregoing conditions or any other conditions under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note or that we will be able to draw down any portion of the amounts available under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note. However, we do believe there is a strong likelihood, as long as we can meet the various conditions to funding, that we will receive the full amount of funding under the equity line of credit. Given our financial challenges and the competitive nature of our business, we also believe we will need the full amount of funding under the equity line of credit in order to fully realize our business plans.
A portion of the funds received from Chicago Venture will be used to pay off TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”), a previous equity financing partner and a portion will be invested in our business. Specifically, we anticipate that approximately $1,400,000 is expected to be used to pay TCA and the remaining funds, if any, will be used for general business purposes such as marketing, product development, expansion and administrative costs. We are not aware of any relationship between TCA and Chicago Venture. We have had no previous transactions with Chicago Venture or any of Chicago Venture’ affiliates. We cannot predict whether the Chicago Venture transaction will have either a positive or negative impact on our stock price. However, in addition to the fact that each Chicago Venture conversion, when and if it occurs, has a dilutive effect on our stock, that should Chicago Venture convert large portions of the debt into registered shares and then sells those shares on the market, that our stock price could be depressed.
Debt Purchase Agreement and First Amendment to Debt Purchase Agreement and Note Assignment Agreement. On August 24, 2016, we closed a Debt Purchase Agreement and a First Amendment to Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements with Chicago Venture and TCA.
On August 24, 2016, TCA closed an Assignment of Note Agreement and related agreements with Chicago Venture. The referenced agreements relate to the assignment of Company debt, in the form of debentures, by TCA to Chicago Venture. The Company was a party to the agreements between TCA and Chicago Venture because the Company is the “borrower” under the TCA held debentures.
Exchange Agreement, Convertible Promissory Note and related Agreements with Chicago Venture. On August 17, 2016, we closed an Exchange Agreement and a Convertible Promissory Note and related agreements with Chicago Venture whereby we agreed to the assignment of debentures representing debt between the Company, on the one hand, and with TCA, on the other hand. Specifically, we agreed that TCA could assign a portion of the Company’s debt held by TCA to Chicago Venture.
According to the Exchange Agreement, the debt is to be assigned in tranches, with the first tranche of debt assigned from TCA to Chicago Venture being $128,000 which is represented by an Initial Exchange Note as defined in the Exchange Agreement.
Funding from TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”).
The First TCA SPA. On July 9, 2015, we closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP (“TCA”), an accredited investor, whereby we agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 may be purchased in additional closings. The closing of the Transactiontransaction (the “First TCA SPA”) occurred on July 9, 2015. Effective as of May 4, 2016, the Company and TCA entered into a First Amendment to the First TCA SPA whereby the parties agreed to amend the terms of the First TCA SPA in exchange for TCA’s forbearance of existing defaults by the Company.
The Second TCA SPA. On August 6, 2015, we closed a second Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP, whereby we agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior secured convertible redeemable debenture and we agreed to issue and sell to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from us up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a Committed Equity Facility.committed equity facility. The closing of the Transactiontransaction (the “Second TCA SPA”) occurred on August 6, 2015. On April 11, 2016, we agreed with TCA to mutually terminate the Second TCA SPA.
Transactions with CANX, LLC and Logic Works LLC
Amendment to the First TCA SPA. On July 10, 2014,October 27, 2015, we closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement,entered into an Amended and Restated Joint VentureSecurities Purchase Agreement Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Noterelated agreements with CANX,TCA whereby we agreed to sell, and Logic Works LLC, a lenderTCA agreed to purchase $350,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures. This was an amendment to the First TCA SPA (the “Amendment to the First TCA SPA”.) As of October 27, 2015, we sold $1,050,000 in Debentures to TCA and shareholderup to $1,950,000 in Debentures remain for sale by us. The closing of the Company.
Operating Activities
Amendment to the First TCA SPA occurred on October 27, 2015. In addition, TCA has advanced us an additional $100,000 for a total of $1,150.000.
Issuance of Preferred Stock to TCA. Also, on October 21, 2015 we issued 150,000 Series B Preferred Stock at a stated value equal to $10.00 per share to TCA. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into common stock by dividing the stated value of the shares being converted by 100% of the average of the five (5) lowest closing bid prices for the common stock during the ten (10) consecutive trading days immediately preceding the conversion date as quoted by Bloomberg, LP. On October 21, 2015, we also issued 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock at $0.0001 par value per share to TCA. The Series C Preferred Stock is not convertible into our common stock. In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated TCA Transaction Documents, TCA can exercise voting control over our common stock with their Series C Preferred Stock voting rights.
TCA’s Forbearance. Due to our default on its repayment obligations under the TCA SPA’s and related documents, the parties agreed to restructure the SPA’s whereby TCA agreed to forbear from enforcement of our defaults and to restructure a payment schedule for repayment of debt under the SPAs. We defaulted because our operating results were not as expected and we were unable to generate sufficient revenue through its business operations to serve the TCA debt. Specifically, the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement made the following material modifications to the existing SPA’s:
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All unpaid debentures were modified as described in more detail below.
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Payments on the debentures shall be made by (i) debt purchase agreement(s) to be entered into by TCA, (ii) through proceeds raised from the transaction(s) with Chicago Venture; or (iii) by the Company directly.
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The due date of the debentures was extended to April 28, 2018.
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TCA agreed that it shall not enforce and shall forbear from pursuing enforcement of any existing defaults by us unless and until a future Company default occurs.
In furtherance of TCA’s forbearance, effective as of May 4, 2016, we issued Second Replacement Debenture A in the principal amount of $150,000 and Second Replacement Debenture B in the principal amount of $2,681,209.82 (collectively, the “Second Replacement Debentures”).
Per the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Second Replacement Debentures were combined, and apportioned into two separate replacement debentures. The Second Replacement Debentures were intended to act in substitution for and to supersede the debentures in their entirety. It was the intent of the Company and TCA that while the Second Replacement Debentures replace and supersede the debentures, in their entirety, they were not in payment or satisfaction of the debentures, but rather were the substitute of one evidence of debt for another without any intent to extinguish the old debt. The maximum number of shares subject to conversion under the Second Replacement Debentures is 383,028,714. This is an approximation. The estimation of the maximum number of shares issuable upon the conversion of the Second Replacement Debentures was calculated using an estimated average price of $.013 per share.
The Second Replacement Debentures contemplate TCA entering into debt purchase agreement(s) with third parties whereby TCA may, at its election, sever, split, divide or apportion the Second Replacement Debentures to accomplish the repayment of the balance owed to TCA by Company. The Second Replacement Debentures are convertible at 85% of the lowest daily volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of our common stock during the five (5) business days immediately prior to a conversion date.
In connection with the above agreements, the parties acknowledged and agreed that certain advisory fees previously paid to TCA as provided in the SPAs in the amount of $1,500,000 have been added and included within the principal balance of the Second Replacement Debentures. The advisory fees related to financial, merger and acquisition and regulatory services provided to us. The conversion price discount on the Second Replacement Debentures will not apply to the advisory fees added to the Second Replacement Debentures. TCA also agreed to surrender its Series B Preferred Stock in exchange for the $1,500,000 being added to the Second Replacement Debenture.
As more particularly described below, we remain in debt to TCA for the principal amount of $1,500,000. The remaining $1,400,000 of principal debt was assigned to Old Main Capital, LLC (see discussion immediately below.) We intend to use the funds generated from the Chicago Venture transaction to fuel its business operations and business plans which, in turn, will presumably generate revenues sufficient to avoid another default in the remaining TCA obligations. If we are unable to raise sufficient funds through the Chicago Venture transaction and/or generate sales sufficient to service the remaining TCA debt then we will be unable to avoid another default. Failure to operate in accordance with the various agreements with TCA could result in the cancellation of these agreements, result in foreclosure on our assets in an event of default which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
TCA Assignment of Debt to Old Main Capital, LLC
On September 9, 2016, we closed a Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements (the “Old Main Transaction Documents”) with TCA and Old Main Capital, LLC (“Old Main”) whereby TCA agreed to sell and Old Main agreed to purchase in multiple tranches $1,400,000 in senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures (the “Assigned Debt”) (the “Old Main Transaction”). The Assigned Debt was our debt incurred in the TCA financing transactions that closed in 2015. We were required to execute the Old Main Transaction Documents as we are the “borrower” on the Assigned Debt.
Debt Purchase Agreement. As set forth above, we entered into the Debt Purchase Agreement on September 9, 2015 with TCA and Old Main whereby Old Main agreed to purchase, in tranches, $1,400,000 of debt previously held by TCA. We executed the Debt Purchase Agreement as it was the “borrower” under the Assigned Debt and was required to make certain representations and warranties regarding the Assigned Debt. The Assigned Debt is represented by a new “10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note” entered into by and between Old Main and the Company (more particularly described below.)
Exchange Agreement. In conjunction with the Debt Purchase Agreement, on September 9, 2016, we entered into an Exchange Agreement whereby we agreed to exchange, in tranches, the Assigned Debt, as well as any amendments thereto, with a 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note (the “Note”) having a principal balance of $1,400,000. The closing dates for the exchanges, scheduled to occur in tranches, are set forth in Schedule 1 attached to the Exchange Agreement.
10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note. Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, we entered into a 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note dated September 9, 2016 with Old Main whereby the Company agreed to be indebted to Old Main for the Assigned Debt. We promised to pay Old Main, by no later than the maturity date of September 9, 2017 the outstanding principal of the Assigned Debt together with interest on the outstanding principal amount under the Note, at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum simple interest.
At any time after September 9, 2016, and while the Note is still outstanding and at the sole option of Old Main, Old Main may convert all or any portion of the outstanding principal, accrued and unpaid interest redemption premium and any other sums due and payable hereunder or under any of the other Transaction Documents into shares of our Common Stock at a price equal to the lower of: (i) sixty-five percent (65%) of the lowest traded price of the Company’s Common Stock during the thirty (30) trading days prior to the Conversion Date; or (ii) sixty-five percent (65%) of the lowest traded price of the Common Stock in the thirty (30) Trading Days prior to the Closing Date.
Option Agreement. In connection with the Old Main Transaction Documents, TCA and Old Main entered into an Option Agreement dated September 8, 2016 whereby TCA agreed to grant Old Main an option to purchase the Assigned Debt, or any portion thereof, under the terms and conditions of the Debt Purchase Agreement. In consideration, Old Main agreed to pay the Option Payment as more particularly described in the Option Agreement.
On August 24, 2016, TCA terminated its Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements with Old Main. The specific termination date is September 25, 2016, and Old Main had a right to purchase an additional $300,000 in debt from TCA.
Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 20142016 was $2,123,000.$1,212,000. This amount was primarily related to a net loss of $86,626,000,$7,695,000, offset by a reduction(i) an increase in account receivable of $184,000 and inventory of $317,000$20,000; (ii) an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $174,000; (iii) other of $17,000; and non-cash expenses of $83,899,000 consisting of$6,271,000 including (i) depreciation and amortization of $140,000;$115,000; (ii) stock based compensation of $724,000$146,000 related to stock option grants; (iii) common stock issueissued for services of $2,722,000;$285,000; (iv) $1,364,000 related to the impairment of GrowLife Hydro, Inc. long-lived assets of $876,000; (v) accrued interest and amortization of the debt discount associated with ouron convertible notes payable;payable of $635,000; (v) $183,000 of accrued interest expense related to our notes payable; (vi) $62,500,000 related to the issuance of a 100,000,000 share warrant to CANX in February 7, 2014 and a 300,000,000 share warrant to CANX on July 10, 2014 ; (vii) loss on debt conversions of $2,890,000; and (vi) change –in derivative liability of $16,253,000; and (viii) other of $13,000.$1,324,000.
Investing Activities
Net cash provided by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $184,000. This amount was primarily related to the net cash proceeds from the sale of shares in Vape Holdings, Inc. of $188,000, offset by capital expenditures of $4,000.
Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 20142016 was $394,000. This$1,255,000. The amount was primarily related to proceeds from the issuance of a convertible note of $350,000, proceeds from options exercised of $45,000, offsetfunding provided by repayment of debt of $1,000.Chicago Venture.
Our contractual cash obligations as of December 31, 20142016 are summarized in the table below:
| Contractual Cash Obligations | | | | | |
| Operating leases | $130,784 | $115,205 | $15,579 | $- | $- |
| Convertible notes payable | 2,920,196 | 2,920,196 | - | - | - |
| Capital expenditures | 25,000 | 25,000 | - | - | - |
| | $3,075,980 | $3,060,402 | $15,579 | $- | $- |
| | | | | | Less Than | | | | | | | | | Greater Than | |
| Contractual Cash Obligations | | Total | | | 1 Year | | | 1-3 Years | | | 3-5 Years | | | 5 Years | |
| Operating leases | | $ | 326,950 | | | $ | 175,080 | | | $ | 151,870 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| Note payable | | | 1,463,431 | | | | 1,103,790 | | | | 359,641 | | | | - | | | | - | |
| Capital expenditures | | | 50,000 | | | | 50,000 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | $ | 1,840,381 | | | $ | 1,328,870 | | | $ | 511,511 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
28
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements (as that term is defined in Item 303 of Regulation S-K) that are reasonably likely to have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenue or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The application of GAAP involves the exercise of varying degrees of judgment. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. We believe that of our significant accounting policies (see summary of significant accounting policies more fully described in Note 3 to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014)2016), the following policies involve a higher degree of judgment and/or complexity:
Cash and Cash Equivalents - We classify highly liquid temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased as cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash balances at various financial institutions. Balances at US banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to $250,000. We have not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant risk for cash on deposit.
Accounts Receivable and Revenue -Revenue is recognized on the sale of a product when the product is shipped, which is when the risk of loss transfers to our customers, the fee is fixed and determinable, and collection of the sale is reasonably assured. A product is not shipped without an order from the customer and the completion of credit acceptance procedures. The majority of our sales are cash or credit card; however, we occasionally extend terms to our customers. Accounts receivable are reviewed periodically for collectability.
Inventories -Inventories are recorded on a first in first out basis. Inventory consists of raw materials, purchased finished goods and components held for resale. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or market. We record a provision for excess and obsolete inventory whenever an impairment has been identified.The reserve for inventory was $50,000 and $90,725$20,000 at December 31, 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively.
Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are stated at cost. Assets acquired held under capital leases are initially recorded at the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments discounted at the implicit interest rate (35% for assets currently held under capital lease) or the fair value of the asset. Major improvements and betterments are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of five years. Assets acquired under capital lease are depreciated over the lesser of the useful life or the lease term. At the time of retirement or other disposition of property and equipment, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated statements of operations.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill, intangible assets, and long-lived assets during the fourth quarter of each year and between annual evaluations if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such circumstances could include, but are not limited to (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, (4) continued losses from operations, (5) continued negative cash flows from operations, and (6) the suspension of trading of the Company’s securities. When evaluating whether goodwill is impaired, we compare the fair value of the reporting unit to which the goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. The fair value of the reporting unit is estimated using a combination of the income, or discounted cash flows, approach and the market approach, which utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then the amount of the impairment loss must be measured. The impairment loss would be calculated by comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill to its carrying amount. In calculating the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the other assets and liabilities of that unit based on their fair values. The excess of the fair value of a reporting unit over the amount assigned to its other assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill.
We amortize the cost of other intangible assets over their estimated useful lives, which range up to ten years, unless such lives are deemed indefinite. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year for impairment, or more often if indicators warrant.
Long Lived Assets – We reviews our long-lived assets for impairment annually or when changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets under certain circumstances are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value. Assets to be disposed of and assets not expected to provide any future service potential to the Company are recorded at the lower of carrying amount or fair value (less the projected cost associated with selling the asset). To the extent carrying values exceed fair values, an impairment loss is recognized in operating results.
Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments - –ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures, defines fair value establishes a frameworkas the exchange price that would be received for measuring fair value, establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurement and enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or paid to transfer a liability as of(an exit price) in the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows:
Level 1 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assetsprincipal or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observablemost advantageous market for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, for substantiallyin an orderly transaction between market participants on the full term of the financial instrument.
Level 3 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to themeasurement date. This topic also establishes a fair value measurement.
The carrying value of cash, accounts receivable, investment in a related party, accounts payables, accrued expenses, due to related party, notes payable,hierarchy, which requires classification based on observable and convertible notes approximates theirunobservable inputs when measuring fair values due to their short-term maturities.
Derivative financial instruments -We evaluate all of its financial instruments to determine if such instruments are derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at itsvalue. The fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the consolidated statements of operations. For stock-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses a weighted average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to value the derivative instruments at inception and on subsequent valuation dates. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is evaluated at the end of each reporting period. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-currenthierarchy distinguishes between assumptions based on whether or not net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within twelve months of the balance sheet date.market data (observable inputs) and an entity’s own assumptions (unobservable inputs).
As of December 31, 2013, we had outstanding unsecured 7% convertible notes for $1,850,000 that we determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. We valued the derivative liability of these notes at $9,324,000 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
As of December 31, 2014, we had outstanding unsecured 7% convertible notes for $500,000 that we determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. We valued the derivative liability of these notes at $1,278,878 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
As of December 31, 2014, we had outstanding unsecured 6% convertible notes for $350,000 that we determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. We valued the derivative liability of these notes at $822,037 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
Stock Based Compensation – We have share-based compensation plans under which employees, consultants, suppliers and directors may be granted restricted stock, as well as options and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock at the fair market value at the time of grant. Stock-based compensation cost to employees is measured by us at the grant date, based on the
fair value of the award, over the requisite service period under ASC 718. For options issued to employees, we recognize stock compensation costs utilizing the fair value methodology over the related period of benefit. Grants of stock to non-employees and other parties are accounted for in accordance with the ASC 505.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide the information required by this Item. Nevertheless, we have no investments in any market risk sensitive instruments either held for trading purposes or entered into for other than trading purposes.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Reference is made to our consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this report.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of the period covered by this report based on the framework in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our internal control over financial reporting were not effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of our financial statements for external purposes in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles.
Pursuant to Regulation S-K Item 308(b), this Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an attestation report of our company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016 has not been audited by SD Mayer & Associates, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated can provide only reasonable, but not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their cost.
a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We conducted an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in the reports it files or submits 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. Disclosure controls and procedures also include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive and principal financial officers concluded as of December 31, 20142016 that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level due to the material weaknesses in our internal controls over financial reporting discussed immediately below.
Identified Material Weakness
A material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting is a control deficiency, or combination of control deficiencies, that results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the financial statements will not be prevented or detected.
Management identified the following material weakness during its assessment of internal controls over financial reporting:
Audit Committee:
On June 3, 2014, we formed an Audit Committee and appointed an audit committee financial expert as defined by SEC and as adopted under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Prior to this, we did not have an Audit Committee to oversee financial reporting and used external service providers to ensure compliance with the SEC requirements. The current Audit Committee has one independent directors. We expect to expand this committee during 2017.
Other Weaknesses:
We lacked a centralized accounting department operating in the same location as our senior management.
We lacked an offsite backup our critical computerized data.
We lacked detailed, and written, set of company policies and procedures.
Our information systems lackslack sufficient controls limiting access to key applications and data.
Our inventory system lacked standardized product descriptions and effective controls to ensure the accuracy, valuation, and timeliness of the financial accounting process around inventory, including a lack of accuracy and basis for valuation resulting in adjustments to the amount of cost of revenues and the carrying amount of inventory.
We lacked centralized control over bank accounts.
We lacked centralized control over sales and payroll taxes.
b) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
During the yearquarter ended December 31, 2014, we implemented the following2016, there were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during this fiscal quarter, which were identified in connection with our management’s evaluation required by paragraph (d) of rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act, that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to have a materially affect, on our internal control over financial reporting.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we strengthened our governance as follows: (i) appointed Mark E. Scott as a director and chairman of the Audit Committee; (ii) we formed Audit, Compensation and Nominations and Governance Committees and implemented charters; (iii) we implemented updated By-Laws; (iv) we implemented new policies, including Insider Trading, Whistleblower and a Code of Ethics; (v) we completed a significant review of our operations and filings; and (vi) we filed with the SEC numerous filings to correct any reporting deficiencies.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we improved our internal controls and financial reporting as follows: (i) the office was moved to Seattle to have a centralized accounting department in the same location as our senior management; (ii) we strengthened our personnel with the appointment of a new consulting Chief Financial Officer and Controller; (iii) we migrated to a new financial reporting system; (iv) we implemented a new point-of-sale software system; and (v) we changed our management.
During the three months ended December 31, 2014, we did not close the books and records on a timely basis for file the Form 10-K due to a lack of cash. However, there were no changes in internal control over financing reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
There were no disclosures of any information required to be filed on Form 8-K during the three months ended December 31, 20142016 that were not filed.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The following changes in directors and named executive officers occurred during the year ending December 31, 2015 and 2016:
●
Marco Hegyi was appointed President on December 4, 2013 and forDirector on December 9, 2013. Mr. Hegyi was appointed Chairman of the subsequent periods:Board and CEO on April 1, 2016.
●
● | Eric Shevin was appointed Director on April 1, 2013 and resigned April 1, 2014. |
Mark Scott was appointed Director on May 21, 2014, Chairman of the Audit Committee on June 3, 2014 and Consulting Chief Financial Officer on July 31, 2014. Mr. Scott resigned as Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee on October 18, 2015. Mr. Mark Scott was re-appointed to the Board of Directors and Secretary of GrowLife, Inc. on February 14, 2017. | Craig Ellins resigned as Director on April 12, 2013. |
● | Justin Manns resigned as Chief Financial Officer on July 22, 2013 and as Director on December 19, 2013. |
Joseph Barnes was appointed Senior Vice President of Business Development on October 10, 2014. | John Genesi was appointed Chief Financial Officer on July 22, 2013 and resigned on July 15, 2014. |
● | Robert Hunt was appointed President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. and Director on June 7, 2013. Mr. Hunt resigned as Executive Vice President of GrowLife, Inc. and President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. effective May 23, 2014 and as a Director effective on June 3, 2014. |
Michael Fasci was appointed Director on October 27, 2015 and Chairman of the Audit and Compensation Committees on November 11, 2015. Mr. Fasci was appointed Secretary on April 1, 2016, which he resigned from on February 14, 2017. | Robert Kurilko resigned as Director on November 2, 2013. |
● | Marco Hegyi was appointed President on December 4, 2013 and Director on December 9, 2013. |
Tara Antal was appointed Director on October 27, 2015 and resigned on March 4, 2016. | Alan Hammer was appointed Director on December 17, 2013 and resigned May 6, 2014. |
● | Jeff Giarraputo Director was appointed Director on December 19, 2013. |
Brad Fretti was appointed Director on October 27, 2015 and Chairman of the Compensation Committee on November 11, 2015. Mr. Fretti resigned as Director and Chairman of the Compensation Committee on March 4, 2016.● | Anthony Ciabattoni was appointed Director on December 19, 2013. |
● | Sterling C. Scott resigned as Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director on May 19, 2014. |
● | Mark E. Scott was appointed Director on May 21, 2014, Chairman of the Audit Committee on June 3, 2014 and Consulting Chief Financial Officer on July 31, 2014. |
● | Joseph Barnes was appointed Senior Vice President of Business Development on October 1, 2015. |
Directors and Executive Officers
The following table sets forth certain information about our current directors and executive officers:
The following table sets forth certain information about our current directors and executive officers: |
Name | | | | |
Name | | Age | | Director/ Executive Officer |
| | | | | |
| Marco Hegyi | 59 | | 57 | | Director,Chairman of the Board, CEO, President and Nominations and Governance Committee Chairman (1) |
| | | | | |
| Mark E. Scott | 63 | | 62 | | Director, Secretary, Audit Committee Chairman and Consulting Chief Financial Officer (2) |
| | | | | | |
Anthony J. Ciabattoni *Michael E. Fasci | | | 71 | 58 | Director, and CompensationAudit Committee Chairman (1)and Secretary (2)(3) |
| | | | | |
Jeff Giarraputo * | | | 45 | | Director (1)(2)(3) |
| | | | | |
| Joseph Barnes | | | 43 | 44 | Senior Vice President of Business Development |
* Independent director
(1) Member of the Audit Committee.
(2) Member of the Compensation Committee.
(3) Member of the Nominations and Governance Committee.
All directors hold office until their successors are duly appointed or until their earlier resignation or removal.
Marco Hegyi - – Mr. Hegyi joined GrowLife as its President on December 4, 2013 and a Member of its Board of Directors on December 9, 2013 and was appointed as Chairman of the Nominations and Governance Committee and a member of the Compensation Committee on June 3, 2014. Mr. Hegyi was appointed as CEO and Chairman of GrowLife effective on April 1, 2016. Mr. Hegyi has served as an independent director of Visualant, Inc. since February 14, 2008 and as Chairman of the Board sincefrom May 2011, and servesserved at the Chairman of the Audit and Compensation committees of Visualant, Inc.until his departure on February 2015. Previously, Mr. Hegyi was been a principal with the Chasm Group from 2006 to January 2014, where he has provided business consulting services. As a management consultant, Mr. Hegyi applied his extensive technology industry experience to help early-stage companies.companies and has been issued 10 US patents.
Prior to working as a consultant in 2006, Mr. Hegyi served as Senior Director of Global Product Management at Yahoo! Prior to Yahoo!, Mr. Hegyi was at Microsoft leading program management for Microsoft Windows and Office beta releases aimed at software developers from 2001 to 2006. While at Microsoft, he formed new software-as-a-service concepts and created operating programs to extend the depth and breadth of the company’s unparalleled developer eco-system, including managing offshore, outsource teams in China and India, and being the named inventor of a filed Microsoft patent for a business process in service delivery.
During Mr. Hegyi’s career, he has served as President and CEO of private and public companies, Chairman and director of boards, finance, compensation and audit committee chair, chief operating officer, vice-president of sales and marketing, senior director of product management, and he began his career as a systems software engineer. Mr. Hegyi holds several patents.
Mr. Hegyi earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Information and Computer Sciences from the University of California, Irvine, and has completed advanced studies in innovation marketing, advanced management, and strategy at Harvard Business School, Stanford University, UCLA Anderson Graduate School of Management, and MIT Sloan School of Management.
Mr. Hegyi’s prior experience as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of public companies, combined with his advanced studies in business management and strategy, were the primary factors in the decision to add Mr. Hegyi to the Company’s Board of Directors.
Anthony J. CiabattoniMichael E. Fasci – Mr. Ciabattoni has servedFasci joined GrowLife as a Member of its Board of Directors on the Board since December 19, 2013October 27, 2015 and was appointed Audit Committee Chairman on November 11, 2015. On April 1, 2016, Mr. Fasci was appointed as the Secretary of the Compensation Committee toCompany, but resigned on February 14, 2017. Mr. Fasci is a 30-year veteran in the Audit and Nominations and Governance on June 3, 2014. Mr. Ciabattoni held sales and marketing management positions for two Fortune 250 companies. Since 1996, Mr. Ciabattoni’s entrepreneurial career involved start-ups, acquisitions, business operations and enterprise sales servicing Fortune 500 companies. Since 1996, Mr. Ciabattoni manages a diverse investment portfolio comprised of real estate, healthcare, technology, and satellite communicationsfinance sector having served as an investor.officer and director of many public and private companies. Mr. Fasci is a seasoned operator across various industries and has served in both CEO and CFO capacities for both growth and turnaround situations. Mr. Fasci began his career as a field engineer and then manager of various remediation filtration and environmental monitoring projects globally before focusing his efforts on the daily operations, accounting and financial reporting and SEC compliance of the numerous companies he has served. Mr. Fasci resides in East Taunton, Massachusetts and studied Electrical Engineering at Northeastern University and maintains his qualification as an Enrolled Agent of the Internal Revenue Service.
Mr. Ciabattoni has extensive involvement in both his community and in charities. He is the founder of Laguna Legacy, a charitable fund designed to help families and organizations of need in his community. He is a former Board of Director of Junior Achievement and a former member of Big Brothers of Orange County.
Mr. Ciabattoni is a graduate of the University of Delaware where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and has resided in California with his family since 1972.
Mr. Ciabattoni’sFasci was appointed to the Board of Directors because of past experience in building, growing,based on his financial, SEC and selling companies.governance skills.
Jeff Giarraputo - Mr. Giarraputo has served on the Board since December 19, 2013 and was appointed to the Audit, Nominations and Goverance and Compensation Committees on June 3, 2014. In 1996, Mr. Giarraputo co-founded the global advertising agency Factory Design Labs, a multi-national agency with offices in Denver, USA, Shanghai, China and Verbier, Switzerland. In 2004, Mr. Giarraputo co-founded Beatport, the largest music store for DJs in the world. Beatport was privately held and headquartered in Denver, USA and Berlin, Germany until it was acquired in 2013. Mr. Giarraputo has managed private equity investments and serves as an advisor and/or board member since 2013.
The Company added Mr. Giarraputo to its Board of Directors because of his sales and marketing, and in particular his branding experience/expertise.
Mark E. Scott – Mr. Mark Scott was appointedre-appointed to the Board of Directors and Secretary of GrowLife, Inc. on May 21, 2014 and as ChairmanFebruary 14, 2017. Mr. Scott was previously a member of the Audit CommitteeBoard of Directors and Secretary of GrowLife, Inc. from May 2014 until his resignation on June 3, 2014. On July 31, 2014,October 18, 2015. Mr. Scott was appointed our Consulting Chief Financial Officer. Officer on July 31, 2014.
Mr. Scott has significant financial, capital market and relations experience in public microcap companies. Mr. Scott also currently servesserved as (i) Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer of Visualant, Inc., a position he has held sincefrom May 2010.
2010 to August 31, 2016. Mr. Scott was Chief Financial Officer of U.S. Rare Earths, Inc., a consulting position he held December 19, 2011 to April 30, 2014 and Chief Financial Officer of Sonora Resources Corporation, a consulting position he held from June 15, 2011 to August 31, 2014. Also, Mr. Scott was Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer of WestMountain Gold from February 28, 2011 to December 31, 2013 and was a consultant from December 2010 to February 27, 2011. Mr. Scott previously served as Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of IA Global, Inc. from October 2003 to June 2011. Previously, he held executiveMr. Scott also provides consulting services to other non-public entities from time to time. Mr. Scott has significant financial, positions with Digital Lightwave; Network Access Solutions;capital market and Teltronics, Inc. He has also held senior financial positions at Protel, Inc., Crystals International, Inc., Ranks Hovis McDougall, LLPrelations experience in public and Brittania Sportswear, and worked at Arthur Andersen.private microcap companies. Mr. Scott is also a certified public accountant and received a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of Washington.
Mr. Scott was appointed to the Board of Directors based on his financial, SEC and governance skills.
Joseph Barnes - Barnes-Mr. Barnes was appointed Senior Vice President of Business Development for GrowLife, Inc. on October 10, 2014. Mr. Barnes works from our Boulder,Avon (Vail), Colorado store. Mr. Barnes joined GrowLife in 2010 and is responsible for all national sales operations including direct sales, retail and e-commerce. He led the sales team whichthat recorded sales in 2014 of more than $8 million, a 100% increase from the previous year.
Mr. Barnes made the progressive and entrepreneurial decision to work with GrowLife after seeing the agricultural benefits of indoor growing. He is deeply passionate about clean and sustainable grows, and has deep relationships with many trusted
cultivators. He holds extensive knowledge of indoor growing methods with concentrating on maximizing the yields for clean and healthy crops.
Barnes was a highly regarded snowboard instructor in Vail, Colorado prior to joining GrowLife. He worked with many top snowboard professionals, and also received a Level 1 certification from American Association Snowboard Instructors (AASI). Before his days on the slopes, Barnes was also a recruiting manager focusing on placing senior executives with international pharmaceutical/biotech companies. He also owned and operated Chrome Night Life Arena, a 20,000 square foot indoor/outdoor venue based in Philadelphia with more than 65 employees.
Certain Significant Employees
There are no significant employees required to be disclosed under Item 401(c) of Regulation S-K.
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships among our directors and executive officers.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
Except for Mr. Mr. Ciabattoni, noneNone of our current directors or executive officers has, to the best of our knowledge, during the past ten years:
● | ● Had any petition under the federal bankruptcy laws or any state insolvency law filed by or against, or had a receiver, fiscal agent, or similar officer appointed by a court for the business or property of such person, or any partnership in which he was a general partner at or within two years before the time hereof, or any corporation or business association of which he was an executive officer at or within two years before the time hereof; |
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● | Been convicted in a criminal proceeding or a named subject of a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses); |
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● | Been the subject of any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining him from, or otherwise limiting, the following activities: |
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● | Acting as a futures commission merchant, introducing broker, commodity trading advisor, commodity pool operator, floor broker, leverage transaction merchant, any other person regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, or an associated person of any of the foregoing, or as an investment adviser, underwriter, broker or dealer in securities, or as an affiliated person, director or employee of any investment company, bank, savings and loan association or insurance company, or engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice in connection with such activity; |
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● | Engaging in any type of business practice; or |
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● | Engaging in any activity in connection with the purchase or sale of any security or commodity or in connection with any violation of federal or state securities laws or federal commodities laws; |
● | Been the subject of any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated, of any federal or state authority barring, suspending, or otherwise limiting for more than 60 days the right of such person to engage in any activity described in (i) above, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity; |
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● | Been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC to have violated any federal or state securities law, where the judgment in such civil action or finding by the SEC has not been subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated; or |
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● | ● Been convicted in a criminal proceeding or a named subject of a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses); ● Been the subject of any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining him from, or otherwise limiting, the following activities: ● Acting as a futures commission merchant, introducing broker, commodity trading advisor, commodity pool operator, floor broker, leverage transaction merchant, any other person regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, or an associated person of any of the foregoing, or as an investment adviser, underwriter, broker or dealer in securities, or as an affiliated person, director or employee of any investment company, bank, savings and loan association or insurance company, or engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice in connection with such activity; ● Engaging in any type of business practice; or ● Engaging in any activity in connection with the purchase or sale of any security or commodity or in connection with any violation of federal or state securities laws or federal commodities laws; ● Been the subject of any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated, of any federal or state authority barring, suspending, or otherwise limiting for more than 60 days the right of such person to engage in any activity described in (i) above, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity; ● Been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the SEC to have violated any federal or state securities law, where the judgment in such civil action or finding by the SEC has not been subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated; or ● Been found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated any federal commodities law, where the judgment in such civil action or finding by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has not been subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated. |
Mr. Ciabattoni entered into Administrative Proceeding File No. 3-16438 dated March 13, 2015 whereby Mr. Ciabattoni agreed to Cease and Desist Proceedings under Section 21C of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. The Administrative Proceeding stems from Mr. Ciabattoni’s failure to file required Schedule 13D amendments and Section 16(a) beneficial ownership reports in an entity unrelated to GrowLife.
Committees of the Board of Directors
The Board has three standing committees to facilitate and assist the Board in the execution of its responsibilities. The committees are currently the Audit Committee, the Nominations and Governance Committee, and the Compensation Committee. The Committees were formed on June 3, 2014 by the current board of directors. The Audit Committee, Compensation and Nominations and Governance Committees each have onetwo management director.directors. The table below shows current membership for each of the standing Board committees.
| Audit | | Compensation | | Nominations and Governance | | Executive Committee |
MarkMichael E. ScottFasci (Chairman) | | Anthony J. Ciabattoni (Chairman) | Marco HegyiMichael E. Fasci (Chairman) | | Marco Hegyi (Chairman) |
Anthony J. Ciabattoni | | Jeff Giarraputo | | Anthony J. Ciabattoni | | Anthony J. Ciabattoni |
Jeff Giarraputo | | Marco Hegyi | | Jeff Giarraputo | | Mark E. Scott |
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
None of our executive officers serves as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee, or other committee serving an equivalent function, of any other entity that has one or more of its executive officers serving as a member of our board of directors or our compensation committee.
Mr. Giarraputo serves as a member of our compensation committee. Mr. Giarraputo has entered into related party transactions with us. See 'Transactions with Related Persons" below.
Code of Conduct and Ethics
We have adopted conduct and ethics standards titled the code of ethics, which is available at www.growlifeinc.com. These standards were adopted by our board of directors to promote transparency and integrity. The standards apply to our board of directors, executives and employees. Waivers of the requirements of our code of ethics or associated polices with respect to members of our board of directors or executive officers are subject to approval of the full board.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Our executive officers, directors and 10% stockholders are required under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the SEC. Copies of these reports must also be furnished to us.
Except as follows, based solely on a review of copies of reports furnished to us, as of December 31, 20142016 our executive officers, directors and 10% holders complied with all filing requirements.
| | | | | | Required | | Actual |
| | | | Transaction | | File | | File |
Person | | Filing Type | | Date | | Date | | Date |
Marco Hegyi | | | 3 | | 12/4/2013 | | 12/18/2013 | | 3/28/2014 |
Alan Hammer | | | 3 | | 12/17/2013 | | 12/19/2013 | | 3/31/2014 |
Anthony J. Ciabattoni | | | 3 | | 12/19/2013 | | 12/23/2013 | | 3/31/2014 |
Jeff Giarraputo | | | 3 | | 12/19/2013 | | 12/23/2013 | | 3/28/2014 |
Joseph Barnes | | | 3 | | 10/10/2014 | | 10/24/2014 | | 11/3/2014 |
| | | | | Required | Actual |
| | | | Transaction | File | File |
Person | | | | Date | Date | Date |
Alan Hammer | | | 4 | | 1/13/2014 | 1/15/2014 | 1/23/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 1/31/2014 | 2/4/2014 | 4/29/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 4 | | 4/3/2014 | 4/7/2014 | 4/9/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 5/27/2014 | 5/29/2014 | 7/3/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4A | | 7/3/2014 | 7/8/2014 | 7/23/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 7/3/2014 | 7/8/2014 | 7/14/2014 |
John Genesi | | | 4 | | 7/15/2014 | 7/17/2014 | 7/28/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4A | | 10/9/2014 | 10/13/2014 | 10/20/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 10/9/2014 | 10/13/2014 | 10/15/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 10/10/2014 | 10/14/2014 | 10/16/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 10/13/2014 | 10/15/2014 | 10/16/2014 |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 4 | | 12/19/2014 | 12/23/2014 | 12/24/2014 |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | Required | Actual |
| | | | | Transaction | File | File |
Person | | | | | Date | Date | Date |
Sterling C. Scott | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
Robert Hunt | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
John Genesi | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
Marco Hegyi | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
Eric Shevin | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
Alan Hammer | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/31/2014 |
Anthony J. Ciabattoni | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/31/2014 |
Jeff Giarraputo | | | 5 | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
Jeff Giarraputo | | | 5A | | 12/31/2013 | 3/5/2014 | 3/28/2014 |
| Person | | Transaction
Date | | |
Michael E. Fasci
| 4 | 5/25/2016 | 5/27/2016 | ��5/31/2016 |
Marco Hegyi
| 4 | 10/21/2017 | 10/2/2016 | 10/25/2016 |
CANX and Logic Works & China West Beneficial Ownership
On July 10, 2014, we entered into a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company.
Previously, we entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX USA LLC, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding our operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitating additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000. In connection with the closing of the Agreement, CANX agreed to provide a commitment for funding in the amount of $1,300,000 for a GrowLife Infrastructure Funding Technology program transaction and provided additional funding under a 7% Convertible Note instrument for $1,000,000, including $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III Investments LLC, entities that are unaffiliated with CANX and operate as separate legal entities. We initially owned a non-dilutive forty five percent (45%) share of OGI and the Company may acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Joint Venture Agreement. In accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby we delivered to CANX a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of the Company common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share. Also in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, we issued an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of our common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share on February 7, 2014.
In connection with the issuance of the above warrants to CANX in November 2013 and early 2014, we drafted certain beneficial ownership forms, including a Schedule 13D, for CANX’s review and filing in connection with their acquisition of a potential control position of the Company due to their holdings of the warrants which amounted to a significant derivative security position in the Company. CANX refused to file the beneficial ownership filings at that time contending that they had not received the warrants provide for under the Joint Venture Agreement from us and therefore were not beneficial owners of said securities and thus not obligated to file said forms. The ultimate responsibility for filing such beneficial ownership forms lies with the reporting person which, in this case, was CANX.
On July 10, 2014, as discussed above, CANX and the Company entered into amended agreement which provided, among other things, the re-issuance of warrants with 4.99% beneficial ownership limitation provisions. The 4.99% beneficial ownership limitation prevented CANX from acting as a control person under the terms of the amended agreements and CANX disclaims its status as a control person or a beneficial owner due to the 4.99% beneficial ownership limitation.
Accordingly, CANX does not consider itself a beneficial owner due to its position that it has a 4.99% ownership limit. CANX further disclaims it has acted as a control group with Logic Works and/or China West in connection with the above transactions. Therefore, CANX has not made any Section 16(a) filings. Likewise, at this time, we do not consider CANX a control party under SEC Rules.
Additionally, Logic Works and China West, parties unaffiliated with CANX that received certain convertible notes in the above transactions to which CANX was a party, do not consider themselves a control group because both Logic Works and China West have a 4.99% ownership limit, are not affiliated with CANX or each other and disclaim their status as a potential control group with CANX. Therefore, Logic Works and China West have not made any Section 16(a) filings. China West has since converted its $500,000 Note into 20,640,548 shares of our common stock on June 4, 2014 which is less than 2.5% of our issued and outstanding common stock.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Overview of Compensation Program
This Compensation Discussion and Analysis describes the material elements of compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to each of our executive officers named in the Compensation Table on page 3626 under “Remuneration of Executive Officers” (the “Named Executive Officers”) who served during the year ended December 31, 2014.2016. This compensation discussion primarily focuses on the information contained in the following tables and related footnotes and narrative for the last completed fiscal year. We also describe compensation actions taken after the last completed fiscal year to the extent that it enhances the understanding of our executive compensation disclosure. The principles and guidelines discussed herein would also apply to any additional executive officers that the Company may hire in the future.
The Compensation Committee of the Board has responsibility for overseeing, reviewing and approving executive compensation and benefit programs in accordance with the Compensation Committee’s charter. The membersmember of the Compensation Committee are Anthony J. Ciabattoni (Chairman), Jeff Giarraputo and Marco Hegyi.is Michael E. Fasci. We expect to appoint an additionaltwo independent DirectorDirectors to serve on the Compensation Committee during 2015.2017.
Compensation Philosophy and Objectives
The major compensation objectives for the Company’s executive officers are as follows:
| | | |
| | ● | to attract and retain highly qualified individuals capable of making significant contributions to our long-term success; |
| | | |
| | ● | to motivate and reward named executive officers whose knowledge, skills, and performance are critical to our success; |
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| | ● | to closely align the interests of our named executive officers and other key employees with those of its shareholders; and |
| | | |
| | ● | to utilize incentive based compensation to reinforce performance objectives and reward superior performance. |
Role of Chief Executive Officer in Compensation Decisions
The Board approves all compensation for the chief executive officer. The Compensation Committee makes recommendations on the compensation for the chief executive officer and approves all compensation decisions, including equity awards, for our executive officers. Our chief executive officer makes recommendations regarding the base salary and non-equity compensation of other executive officers that are approved by the Compensation Committee in its discretion.
Setting Executive Compensation
The Compensation Committee believes that compensation for the Company’s executive officers must be managed to what we can afford and in a way that allows for us to meet our goals for overall performance. During 20142016 and 2013,2015, the Compensation Committee and the Board compensated its Chief Executive Officers, President and Chief Financial Officer at the salaries indicated in the compensation table. This compensation reflected the financial condition of the Company. The Compensation Committee does not use a peer group of publicly-traded and privately-held companies in structuring the compensation packages.
Executive Compensation Components for the Year Ended December 31, 20142016
The Compensation Committee did not use a formula for allocating compensation among the elements of total compensation during the year that ended December 31, 2014.2016. The Compensation Committee believes that in order to attract and retain highly effective people it must maintain a flexible compensation structure. For the year that ended December 31, 2014,2016, the principal components of compensation for named executive officers were base salary.
Base Salary
Base salary is intended to ensure that our employees are fairly and equitably compensated. Generally, base salary is used to appropriately recognize and reward the experience and skills that employees bring to the Company and provides motivation for career development and enhancement. Base salary ensures that all employees continue to receive a basic level of compensation that reflects any acquired skills which are competently demonstrated and are consistently used at work.
Base salaries for the Company’s named executive officers are initially established based on their prior experience, the scope of their responsibilities and the applicable competitive market compensation paid by other companies for similar positions. Mr. Hegyi and Mr. Scott were compensated as described above based on the financial condition of the Company.
Performance-Based Incentive Compensation
The Compensation Committee believes incentive compensation reinforces performance objectives, rewards superior performance and is consistent with the enhancement of stockholder value. All of the Company’s Named Executive Officers are eligible to receive performance-based incentive compensation. The Compensation Committee did not recommend or approve payment of any performance-based incentive compensation to the Named Executive Officers during the year ended December 31, 20142016 based on our the financial condition.
Ownership Guidelines
The Compensation Committee does not require our executive officers to hold a minimum number of our shares. However, to directly align the interests of executive officers with the interests of the stockholders, the Compensation Committee encourages each executive officer to maintain an ownership interest in the Company.
Stock Option Program
Stock options are an integral part of our executive compensation program. They are intended to encourage ownership and retention of the Company’s common stock by named executive officers and employees, as well as non-employee members of the Board. Through stock options, the objective of aligning employees’ long-term interest with those of stockholders may be met by providing employees with the opportunity to build a meaningful stake in the Company.
The Stock Option Program assists us by:
- enhancing the link between the creation of stockholder value and long-term executive incentive compensation;
- providing an opportunity for increased equity ownership by executive officers; and
- maintaining competitive levels of total compensation.
Stock option award levels are determined by the Compensation Committee and vary among participants’ positions within the Company. Newly hired executive officers or promoted executive officers are generally awarded stock options, at the discretion of the Compensation Committee, at the next regularly scheduled Compensation Committee meeting on or following their hire or promotion date. In addition, such executives are eligible to receive additional stock options on a discretionary basis after performance criteria are achieved.
Options are awarded at the closing price of our common stock on the date of the grant or last trading day prior to the date of the grant. The Compensation Committee’s policy is not to grant options with an exercise price that is less than the closing price of our common stock on the grant date.
Generally, the majority of the options granted by the Compensation Committee vest quarterly over two to three years or annually over five years of the 5-10-year option term. Vesting and exercise rights cease upon termination of employment and/or service, except in the case of death (subject to a one year limitation), disability or retirement. Stock options vest immediately upon termination of employment without cause or an involuntary termination following a change of control. Prior to the exercise of an option, the holder has no rights as a stockholder with respect to the shares subject to such option, including voting rights and the right to receive dividends or dividend equivalents.
The Named Executive Officers received stock option grants and warrants during the year ended December 31, 20142016 as outlined below.
Retirement and Other Benefits
We have no other retirement, savings, long-term stock award or other type of plans for the Named Executive Officers.
Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits
During the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, we provided the Named Executive Officers with medical insurance. The Company paid $10,273 in life insurance for Mr. Scott was reimbursed $15,973Hegyi and $9,755 in insurance for insurance and travel expenses.Mr. Scott. No other perquisites or other personal benefits were provided to Named Executive Officers. The committee expects to review the levels of perquisites and other personal benefits provided to Named Executive Officers annually.
Employment and consulting agreements are discussed below.
Tax and Accounting Implications
Deductibility of Executive Compensation
Subject to certain exceptions, Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") generally denies a deduction to any publicly held corporation for compensation paid to its chief executive officer and its three other highest paid executive officers (other than the principal financial officer) to the extent that any such individual's compensation exceeds $1 million. “Performance-based compensation” (as defined for purposes of Section 162(m)) is not taken into account for purposes of calculating the $1 million compensation limit, provided certain disclosure, shareholder approval and other requirements are met. We periodically review the potential consequences of Section 162(m) and may structure the performance-based portion of our executive compensation to comply with certain exceptions to Section 162(m). However, we may authorize compensation payments that do not comply with the exceptions to Section 162(m) when we believe that such payments are appropriate and in the best interests of the stockholders, after taking into consideration changing business conditions or the officer's performance
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
We account for stock-based payments including its Stock Option Program in accordance with the requirements of ASC 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation.”
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT
The Compensation Committee, composed entirely of independent directors in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, sets and administers policies that govern the Company's executive compensation programs, and incentive and stock
programs. The Compensation Committee of the Company has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with management and, based on such review and discussions, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement.
THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
Anthony J. CiabattoniMichael E. Fasci (Chairman)
Jeff Giarraputo
Marco Hegyi
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
REMUNERATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table provides information concerning remuneration of the chief executive officer, the chief financial officer and another named executive officer for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013:2015:
Summary Compensation Table
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Principal Position | | | | | | | | |
| Marco Hegyi, President and Director (2) | 12/31/2016 | $250,000 | $- | $- | $- | $- | $34,231 | $284,231 |
| | 12/31/2015 | $250,000 | $- | $- | $- | $- | $8,561 | $258,561 |
| | | | | | | | |
| Mark E. Scott, Consulting Chief Financial Officer (3) | 12/31/2016 | $156,250 | $- | $60,000 | $- | $- | $9,755 | $226,005 |
| | 12/31/2015 | $156,250 | $- | $- | $- | $7,312 | $- | $163,562 |
| | | | | | | | |
| Joseph Barnes, Senior Vice President of Business | 12/31/2016 | $120,000 | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- | $120,000 |
| Development (4) | 12/31/2015 | $90,000 | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- | $90,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | Stock | | | Plan | | | Option | | | Other | | | | |
| | | | Salary | | | Bonus | | | Awards | | | Compensation | | | Awards | | | Compensation | | | Total | |
| Principal Position | | | ($) | | | ($) | | | ($) (1) | | | ($) | | | ($) | | | ($) | | | ($) | |
| Sterling C. Scott, former Chief Executive Officer, | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 55,500 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 67,614 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 123,114 | |
| President, Secretary and Director (2) | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 20,000 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 58,333 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 537,600 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 615,933 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Robert Hunt, former Director and President | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 40,804 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 35,456 | | | $ | 76,261 | |
| of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. (3) | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 49,777 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 228,000 | | | $ | 9,000 | | | $ | 286,777 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| John Genesi, former Chief Financial Officer (4) | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 62,500 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 480,000 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 41,667 | | | $ | 584,167 | |
| | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 79,167 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 448,000 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 527,167 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Justin Manns, former Chief Financial Officer and | 12/31/2014 | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| Director and current controller of GrowLife | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 78,330 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 46,667 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 124,997 | |
| Hydroponics, Inc. (5) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Marco Hegyi, President and Director (6) | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 156,906 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 14,997 | | | $ | 171,903 | |
| | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 10,834 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 1,825,000 | | | $ | 1,835,834 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Mark E. Scott, Consulting Chief Financial Officer, | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 86,250 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 292,480 | | | $ | 15,686 | | | $ | 394,416 | |
| Director and Secretary (7) | 12/31/2013 | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Joseph Barnes, Senior Vice President of Business | 12/31/2014 | | $ | 70,096 | | | $ | 6,500 | | | $ | 24,000 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 120,648 | | | $ | 9,119 | | | $ | 230,363 | |
| Development (8) | 12/31/2013 | | $ | 15,385 | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 15,385 | |
36
(1) For 2013, reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of stock awards granted during the relevant fiscal year calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 as reflected in the terms of the August 12, 2012 Compensation Plan. For 2014, these amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2) Sterling C. Scott resigned as Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director on May 19, 2014. Mr. ScottHegyi was paid a cash salary of $55,500$250,000 during the year ended December 31, 2014. Mr. Sterling Scott was paid a cash2016 and $250,000 (cash salary of $10,000 per month$203,500 and accrued salary of $46,500) during November and December 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, Sterling Scott2015. This 2015 accrual was issued 5,833,333 sharesbased on the tight cash flow of our common stock whichthe Company and agreed to by Mr. Hegyi, but there was valued at $0.01 per share or $58,333 inno formal deferral agreement. There was no accrued interest paid on the aggregate. During the year ended December 31, 2013, Sterling Scott was issued 5,833,333 sharesunpaid salary.
On April 15, 2016, an entity controlled by Marco Hegyi converted $20,000 of our common stock which was valued at $0.01 per share or $58,333 in the aggregate. On November 3, 2013, the Board of Directors approved a stock option grant for Sterling Scott to purchase 12,000,000accrued salary into 1,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercisethe market price of $0.085$0.020 per share, which represents the fair valueshare. On October 12, 2016, an entity controlled by Marco Hegyi converted $40,000 of one share of our common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares were to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after October 31, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. We valued the options at $537,600. On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of our restricted common stock valued at $67,614 or $.085 per share.
(3) Robert Hunt was appointed President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. and Director of GrowLife on June 7, 2013. Mr. Hunt resigned as Executive Vice President of GrowLife, Inc. and President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. effective May 23, 2014 and as a Director effective on June 3, 2014. Mr. Hunt was paid a cashaccrued salary of $40,804 and severance and other expense reimbursements of $35,456 during the year ended December 31, 2014. Mr. Hunt was paid a cash salary of $49,777 and a housing allowance of $9,000 from June 7, 2013 to December 31, 2013. On November 3, 2013, the Board of Directors approved a stock option grant to Robert Hunt to purchase 12,000,000into 4,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercisethe market price of $0.043$0.010 per share, which representsshare. The shares were valued at the fair valuemarket price of one share of our common stock on June 7, 2013. The option grant was retro-active to June 8, 2013, the date on which Mr. Hunt became a Director of the Company and the President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares were to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after June 7, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years,$0.01 per share.
We paid life insurance of $10,273 and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. We valued the options at $228,000 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions. On May 30, 2014, the Company announced the resignation of Robert Hunt effective May 23, 2014 as Executive Vice President of Growlife, Inc., President of Growlife Hydroponics. On June 3, 2014, the Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Robert Hunt effective June 2, 2014 as a Director of the Company. On October 17, 2014, we entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with$8,561 for Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares. We agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock under certain conditions that have not been met, pay cash severance totaling $50,000 monthly over five month starting October 25, 2014 and reimburse Mr. Hunt for health insurance benefits and other expenses monthly over five months starting October 25, 2014. The Parties entered into a release agreement.
(4) John Genesi was appointed Chief Financial Officer on July 22, 2013 and resigned on July 15, 2014. Mr. Genesi was paid a cash salary of $62,500 and severance of $41,667Hegyi during the yearyears ended December 31, 2014.2016 and 2015, respectively. On October 21, 2016, Mr. Genesi was paidHegyi received a cash salary of $79,167 from July 22, 2013Warrant to December 31, 2013. On November 3, 2013, the Board of Directors approved a stock option grant for John Genesipurchase up to purchase 10,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.085$0.01 per share, which represents the fair value of one share of the our common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares wereshare. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after October 31, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. We valued the options at $448,000 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. On July 15, 2014, we entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013, including thispurchase up to 10,000,000 share stock option grant. We issued 6,000,000 shares of our common stock which we valued at $480,000 or $0.08 per share.
(5) Justin Manns resigned as Chief Financial Officer on July 22, 2013 and as Director on December 19, 2013. Mr. Manns was paid a cash salaryan exercise price of $78,330 during the year ended December 31, 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, Justin Manns was issued 4,666,667 shares of our common stock which was valued at $0.01 per share or $46,667 inwhich vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Warrants are exercisable for 5 years. The warrants were valued at $390,000 and we recorded $23,958 of compensation expense for the aggregate.warrants that had vested as of December 31, 2016.
(6) Marco Hegyi was appointed President on December 4, 2013 and Director on December 9, 2013. Mr. Hegyi was paid a cash salary of $156,906 during the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company paid life insurance of $14,997 for Mr. Hegyi during the year ended December 31, 2014. Mr. Hegyi was paid a cash salary of $10,834 during December 2013. During the year ended December 31, 2013, an entity controlled by Mr. Hegyi received (i) $100,000 for consulting services; and (ii) on December 11, 2013, the Company issued a warrant for 25,000,000 common shares. The warrants have a five-year term with an original exercise price of $0.08 per share. The warrants vest immediately and are exercisable in whole, or in part, at any time and from time to time on or after the issue date and on or before the termination date. We valued the warrants at $1,725,000 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
(7)(3) Mark E. Scott was appointed a Director on May 24, 2014 and as consulting Chief Financial Officer on July 31, 2014. Mr. Scott was paid a cash consulting fee of $86,250$156,250 during the year ended December 31, 2014. 2016 and $156,250 (cash salary of $105,000 and accrued salary of $51,250 during the year ended December 31, 2015. This accrual was based on the tight cash flow of the Company and agreed to by Mr. Scott, but there was no formal deferral agreement. There was no accrued interest paid on the unpaid consulting fee.
On January 4, 2016, an entity controlled by Mr. Scott converted $30,000 of accrued consulting fees and expenses into 3,000,000 shares of our common stock at the market price $0.010 per share. On October 21, 2016, an entity controlled by Mr. Scott converted $40,000 in accrued consulting and expenses into 4,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average.
Mr. Scott was reimbursed $15,686$9,755 for insurance and travel expenses during the year ended December 31, 2014.2016. On July 31, 2014, the Board of Directors approved a stock option grant forOctober 21, 2016, Mr. Scott to purchase 16,000,000 shares of our common stock under our 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price of $0.07 per share, the fair market price on July 31, 2014. The shares vest as follows:
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| i | Two million of the Shares will vest immediately upon securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s relisting on OTCBB (not earned); |
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| ii | Two million Shares will vest immediately upon the successful approval and effectiveness of the Company’s S-1 (not earned); |
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| iii | Two million Shares will vest immediately upon the Company’s resolution of the class action lawsuits (earned as of August 17, 2015); and, |
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| iv | Ten million Shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the July 1, 2014. |
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Scott’s continuous status as employee to the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Scott terminates his employment with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Scott Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan except for CANX USA, LLC, then 100% of the total number of Shares shall immediately become vested. We valued the options at $292,480.
(8) Joseph Barnes was appointed Senior Vice President of Business Development on October 1, 2014. Mr. Barnes was paid a cash salary of $70,096, a bonus of $6,500 and expense reimbursements of $9,119 during the year ended December 31, 2014. During the year ended December 31, 2014, Mr. Barnes was issued 300,000 shares of our common stock which was valued at $0.08 per share or $24,000 in the aggregate. Mr. Barnes was paid a cash salary of $15,385 during the year ended December 31, 2013. Mr.
Barnes was granted an option to purchase eight million6,000,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plancommon stock at an exercise$0.01 per share or $60,000. The price per share was based on the date of grant. The Shares vest as follows:
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| i | Two million of the Shares will vest immediately; |
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| iv | Six million Shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the date of grant. |
All options will havethirty-day trailing average. An entity controlled by Mr. Scott had a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. Thetwo million share stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Barnes’s continuous status as employee towas previously issued vest on April 18, 2016 upon the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Barnes terminates his employmentsecuring a market maker with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Barnes Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as definedan approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of Shares shall immediately become vested.relisting on OTCBB. The option was valued at $7,312.
We valued the options at $120,648.
Grants of Stock Based Awards during the year ended December 31, 20142016
The Compensation Committee approved the following performance-based incentive compensation to the Named Executive Officers for the year ended December 31, 2014:2016:
| | | | Estimated Future Payouts Under | Estimated Future Payouts Under | | | | |
| | | | Non-Equity Incentive Plan | | | | | |
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| | | | | (#) | (#) | (#) | (#) | (#) | | |
| Marco Hegyi | - | $- | - | $- | - | - | - | - | - | $- | $- |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Mark E. Scott (2) | - | $- | - | $- | - | - | - | 6,000,000 | - | $0.010 | $60,000 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Joseph Barnes | - | $- | - | $- | - | - | - | - | - | $- | $- |
| | | | | | Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan | | | Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | All Other StockAwards; Shares of | | | All Other Option Awards; Number of Securities | | | Exercise or Base Price of | | | Grant DateFair Value of Stock | |
| Name | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Threshold(#) | | | | Target (#) | | | | Maximum (#) | | | Stock or Units (#) | | | Underlying Options (#) | | | | | | | |
| Marco Hegyi | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Mark E. Scott (2) | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 10,000,000 | | | $ | 0.070 | | | $ | 292,480 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Joseph Barnes (3) | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 300,000 | | | | 8,000,000 | | | $ | 0.050 | | | $ | 120,648 | |
(1) These amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2) On October 21, 2016, an entity controlled by Mr. Scott’s stock option grant consists of 10,000,000Scott, our Chief Financial Officer, was granted 6,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average.
Outstanding Equity Awards as of December 31, 2016
The Named Executive Officers had the following outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2016:
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| | | | | | Option | | | | |
| | | | | | Expiration | | | | |
| Name | (#) | (#) | (#) | | Date | (#) | | (#) | |
| Marco Hegyi (2) | - | - | - | $- | | - | $- | - | $- |
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| Mark E. Scott (3) | 1,777,778 | 2,222,222 | - | $0.01 | 7/30/2019 | - | $- | - | $- |
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| Joseph Barnes (4) | 6,500,000 | 1,500,000 | - | $0.01 | 10/9/2019 | - | $- | - | $- |
(1)These amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2) On October 21, 2016, an entity controlled by Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. An entity controlled by Mr. Scott has an additional 2,000,000 share stock option grant which continues to vest monthly over three years beginning July 31, 2014. A further 6,000,000 of36 months and a 2,000,000 share stock option grants vestgrant which vests upon the achievement of certain performance criteria.
goals related to acquisitions.
(3) During the year ended December 31, 2014, Mr. Barnes was issued 300,000 shares of our common stock which was valued at $0.08 per share or $24,000 in the aggregate. Mr. Barnes stock option grant consists of 6,000,0006,500,000 shares of our common stock which vest quarterly over three years beginning October 1, 2014 and 2,000,000 shares of our common stock that vested October 10, 2014.
Outstanding Equity Awards as On October 12, 2016, we amended the exercise price of December 31, 2014
The Named Executive Officers had the following outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2014:
| | | Option Awards | | Stock Awards | |
| | | Number of | | | Number of | | | Number of | | | | | | | Number of | | | Market Value | | | Number of Unearned | | | Market or Payout Value of Unearned | |
| | | Securities | | | Securities | | | Securities | | | | | | | Shares or | | | of Shares | | | Shares, | | | Shares,Units, | |
| | | Underlying | | | Underlying | | | Underlying | | | | | | | Units | | | orUnits of | | | Units or Other | | | or Other | |
| | | Unexercised | | | Unexercised | | | Unexercised | | | Option | | | | of StockThat | | | Stock That | | | Rights That | | | Rights That | |
| | | Options | | | Options | | | Unearned | | | Exercise | | Option | | Have Not | | | Have Not | | | Have Not | | | Have Not | |
| | | Exercisable | | | Unexerciseable | | | Options | | | Price | | Expiration | | Vested | | | Vested | | | Vested | | | Vested | |
| Name | | | (#) | | | | (#) | | | | (#) | | | ($) (1) | | Date | | | (#) | | | ($) | | | | (#) | | | ($) | |
| Marco Hegyi | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | |
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| Mark E. Scott (2) | | | 1,944,444 | | | | 8,055,556 | | | | - | | | $ | 0.07 | | 7/30/2019 | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | |
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| Joseph Barnes (3) | | | 2,500,000 | | | | 5,500,000 | | | | - | | | $ | 0.05 | | 10/9/2019 | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | |
(1) These amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2) Mr. Scott’s stock option grant consists of 10,000,000 shares of our common stock which vest monthly over three years beginning July 31, 2014. A further 6,000,000 of stock option grants vest upon the achievement of certain performance criteria.
(3)for Mr. Barnes stock option grant consists of 6,000,000 shares of our common stock which vest quarterly over three years beginning October 1, 2014 and 2,000,000 shares of our common stock that vested October 10, 2014.to $0.010 per share.
Option Exercises and Stock Vested for the year ended December 31, 20142016
Our Named Executive Officers exercised the following stock options or received stock awards for the year ended December 31, 2014.
| | | Option Awards (1) | | | Stock Awards (1) | |
| | | Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise | | | Value Realized on Exercise | | | Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting | | | | |
| Name | | | (#) | | | ($) | | | | (#) | | | ($) | |
| Sterling C. Scott (2) | | | 799,455 | | | $ | 67,614 | | | | - | | | $ | - | |
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| Robert Hunt (3) | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | - | | | $ | - | |
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| John Genesi (4) | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | 6,000,000 | | | $ | 480,000 | |
(1) These amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2) On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised a stock option grant on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of our restricted common stock valued at $67,614 or $.085 per share.
(3) On October 17, 2014, we entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares. We agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock under certain conditions that have not been met.
(4) On July 15, 2014, we entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013, including this 10,000,000 share stock option grant. We issued 6,000,000 shares of our common stock which we valued at $480,000 or $0.08 per share.
Mr. Hegyi, Scott and Barnes did not have any option exercised or stock that vested during the year ended December 31, 2014.2016.
Pension Benefits
We do not provide any pension benefits.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We do not have a nonqualified deferral program.
Employment and Consulting Agreements
Employment Agreement with Marco Hegyi
On December 4, 2013,October 21, 2016, we entered into an Employment Agreement with Marco Hegyi pursuant to which wethe Company engaged Mr. Hegyi as its President fromChief Executive Officer through October 20, 2018. Mr. Hegyi’s previous Employment Agreement was dated December 4, 2013 throughand which was set to expire on December 4, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Hegyi Agreement, Mr. Hegyi established an office in Seattle, Washington while also maintaining operations in the Southern California area. 2016.
Mr. Hegyi’s annual compensation is $150,000 for the first year of the Hegyi Agreement; $250,000 for the second year; and $250,000 for the third year.$250,000. Mr. Hegyi is also entitled to receive an annual bonus equal to four percent (4%) of the Company’s EBITDA for that year. The annual bonus shall be paid no later than 31 days (i.e., by January 31st) following the end of each calendar year. Mr. Hegyi’s first annual bonus will be calculated based on the Company’s EBITDA for calendar year 2014, with such bonus payable on or before January 31, 2015. If Mr. Hegyi’s employment is terminated for any reason prior to the expiration of the Term, as applicable, his annual bonus will be prorated for that year based on the number of days worked in that year. At the commencement of Mr. Hegyi’s employment, an entity affiliated with
Mr. Hegyi received a Warrant to purchase up to 25,000,00010,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.08$0.01 per share. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.01 per share which vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Hegyi Warrant isWarrants are exercisable for five years. On June 20, 2014, the Company and Mr. Hegyi reduced the warrant life from ten to five5 years.
Mr. Hegyi waswill be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by us to our senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. In addition, we agreed towill purchase and maintain during the Term a “key manager”an insurance policy on Mr. Hegyi’s life in the amount of $4,000,000, paid as $2,000,000 payable to Mr. Hegyi’s named heirs or estate as the beneficiary, and $2,000,000 payable to us. The Company and Mr. Hegyi waived this $2,000,000 key manager insurance. If, prior to the expiration of the Term, we terminate Mr. Hegyi’s employment for “Cause”, or if Mr. Hegyi voluntarily terminates his employment withoutbeneficiary.
“Good Reason”, or if Mr. Hegyi’s employment is terminated by reason of his death, then all of our obligations hereunder shall cease immediately, and Mr. Hegyi will not be entitled to any further compensation beyond any pro-rated base salary due and bonus amounts earned through the effective date of termination. Mr. Hegyi will also be reimbursed for any expenses incurred prior to the date of termination for which he was not previously reimbursed.
If we terminate Mr. Hegyi’s employment at any time prior to the expiration of the Term without Cause, as defined in the Employment Agreement, or if Mr. Hegyi terminates his employment at any time for “Good Reason” or due to a “Disability”, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to receive (i) his base salaryBase Salary amount through the end of the Term; and (ii) his annual bonusAnnual Bonus amount for each year during the remainder of the Term, which bonus amount shall be equal to the greater of (A) the annual bonus amount for the immediately preceding year, or (B) the bonus amount that would have been earned for the year of termination, absent such termination. Term.
If there has been a “Change in Control” and wethe Company (or its successor or the surviving entity) terminateterminates Mr. Hegyi’s employment without Cause as part of or in connection with such Change in Control (including any such termination occurring within one (1) month prior to the effective date of such Change in Control), then in addition to the benefits set forth above, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to (i) an increase of $300,000 in his annual base salary amount (or an additional $25,000 per month) through the end of the Term; plus (ii) a gross-up in the annual base salary amount each year to account for and to offset any tax that may be due by Mr. Hegyi on any payments received or to be received by Mr. Hegyi under this Agreement that would result in a “parachute payment” as described in Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. If the Companywe (or its successor or the surviving entity) terminatesterminate Mr. Hegyi’s employment without Cause within twelve (12) months after the effective date of any Change in Control, or if Mr. Hegyi terminates his employment for Good Reason within twelve (12) months after the effective date of any Change in Control, then in addition to the benefits set forth above, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to (i) an increase of $300,000 in his annual base salary amount (or an additional $25,000 per month), which increased annual base salary amount shall be paid for the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer; (ii) a gross-up in the annual base salary amount each year to account for and to offset any tax that may be due by Mr. Hegyi on any payments received or to be received by Mr. Hegyi under this Letter Agreement that would result in a “parachute payment” as described in Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; (iii) payment of Mr. Hegyi’s annual bonus amount as set forth above for each year during the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer; and (iv) health insurance coverage provided for and paid by the Company for the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer.
Consulting Chief Financial Officer Agreement with an Entity Controlled by Mark E. Scott
On July 31, 2014, we entered into a Consulting Chief Financial Officer Letter with an entity controlled by Mark Scott pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Scott as its Consulting CFO from July 1, 2014 through September 30, 2014, and continuing thereafter until either party provides sixty daysixty-day notice to terminate the Letter or Mr. Scott enters into a full-time employment agreement.
Per the terms of the Scott Agreement, Mr. Scott’s compensation is $150,000 on an annual basis for the first year of the Scott Agreement. Mr. Scott is also entitled to receive an annual bonus equal to two percent of the Company’s EBITDA for that year. Our Board of Directors granted Mr. Scott an option to purchase sixteen million shares of the Company’sour Common Stock under the our 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price of $0.07 per share, the fair market price on July 31, 2014. On December 18, 2015, we reduced the exercise price to $0.01 per share.The shares vest as follows:
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| | i | Two million of the shares will vest immediately upon securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’sour relisting on OTCBB (not earned(earned as of December 31, 2014)February 18, 2016); |
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| | ii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon the successful approval and effectiveness of the Company’sour S-1 (not earned as of December 31, 2014)2016); |
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| | iii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon our resolution of the class action lawsuits (earned as of August 17, 2015); and, |
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| | iv | Ten million shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the July 1, 2014.
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On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. Mr. Scott has an additional 2,000,000 share stock option grant which continues to vest monthly over 36 months and a 2,000,000 share stock option grant which vests upon the achievement of certain performance goals related to acquisitions.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’sour Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Scott’s continuous status as employeeconsultant to usthe Company is terminated by us without Cause or Mr. Scott terminates his employment with us for Good Reason as defined in the Scott Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in our Stock Incentive Plan except for CANX USA, LLC, then 100% of the total number of shares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Scott will be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by us to our senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. In addition, we are required to purchase and maintain an insurance policy on Mr. Scott’s life in the amount of $2,000,000 payable to Mr. Scott’s named heirs or estate as the beneficiary. Finally, Mr. Scott is entitled to twenty days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
If, prior to the expiration of the Term, we terminate Mr. Scott’s employment for Cause, or if Mr. Scott voluntarily terminates his employment without Good Reason, or if Mr. Scott’s employment is terminated by reason of his death, then all of our obligations hereunder shall cease immediately, and Mr. Scott will not be entitled to any further compensation beyond any pro-rated base salary due and bonus amounts earned through the effective date of termination. Mr. Scott will also be reimbursed for any expenses incurred prior to the date of termination for which he was not previously reimbursed. Mr. Scott may receive severance benefits and our obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Scott terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Promotion Letter with Joseph Barnes
On October 10, 2014, we entered into a Promotion Letter with Joseph Barnes which was effective October 1, 2014 pursuant to which we engaged Mr. Barnes as its Senior Vice-President of Business Development from October 1, 2014 on an at will basis. This Promotion Letter supersedes and cancelscanceled the Manager Services Agreement with Mr. Barnes dated August 1, 2013.
Per the terms of the Barnes Agreement, Mr. Barnes’s compensation is $90,000 on an annual basis. On January 1, 2016, Mr. Barnes salary was increased to $120,000 per year. Mr. Barnes received a bonus of $6,500 and is also entitled to receive a quarterly bonus based on growth of our growth margin dollars. No quarterly bonuses were earned under this Promotion Letter. Mr. Barnes was granted an option to purchase eight million shares of our common stock under the Company’sour 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price on the date of grant.$0.050 per share. The Sharesshares vest as follows:
| | | |
| | i | Two million of the shares will vestvested immediately; |
| | | |
| | iv | Six million shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the date of grant. |
On October 12, 2016, we amended the exercise price of the stock option grants for Mr. Barnes to $0.010 per share.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of our Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Barnes’s continuous status as employee to us is terminated by the us without Cause or Mr. Barnes terminates his employment with the us for Good Reason as defined in the Barnes Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the our Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of Sharesshares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Barnes was entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by us to our senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. Finally, Mr. Barnes is entitled to fifteen days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
Mr. Barnes may receive severance benefits and our obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Barnes terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Executive Employment Agreement with Sterling C. Scott
On November 3, 2013, we entered into an Executive Employment Agreement with Sterling C. Scott pursuant to which the we engaged Mr. Scott as Chief Executive Officer from November 3, 2013 to November 2, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Scott Agreement, Mr. Scott received an annual salary of $120,000 and he was eligible for any benefits made generally available by us. Mr. Scott was eligible to receive any bonuses made generally available by us, and he was reimbursed for any reasonable expenses incurred while performing his duties as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Scott Agreement also granted Mr. Scott non-qualified options to purchase 12,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of grant. The options included a cashless exercise feature and vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing on October 31, 2013. In the event that the our Board of Directors accepted any offers that would when executed result in a change of control transaction involving more than 50% of the issued shares of us, then vesting of non-qualified options to Mr. Scott shall be accelerated, at the election in writing by the Mr. Scott, to the date on which our Board of Directors determined to accept such offer.
On May 19, 2014, the Board of Directors ratified the resignation of Sterling Scott effective immediately as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board of Directors and a member of the Board of the Company. This resignation cancelled Mr. Scott’s Executive Employment Agreement.
On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of our restricted common stock valued at $67,614 or $.085 per share.
Agreements with Robert Hunt
On June 7, 2013, we entered into an Executive Services Agreement with Robert Hunt, pursuant to which we engaged Mr. Hunt, from June 8, 2013 through June 7, 2015 to provide consulting and management services as the President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. Upon Mr. Hunt’s employment by us, the Company paid Mr. Hunt an annual salary of $75,000 (the “Base Salary”). Such Base Salary shall increase to the annual rate of $100,000 on the first day of the month following the month in which GrowLife’s gross monthly sales reach $840,000. Mr. Hunt was entitled to receive an annual cash bonus (“Bonus”) as follows for its fiscal year 2013: 100% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; 75% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 125% but less than 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; and 50% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 100% of sales projections for such fiscal year. The Bonus, if any, was be paid to Mr. Hunt upon the earlier of (1) the completion of the preparation of our audited financial statements for such fiscal year and (2) April 1 of the Company’s next fiscal year. Mr. Hunt was entitled to receive an annual cash bonus (“Bonus”) as follows for its fiscal year 2014: 100% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; 75% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 125% but less than 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; and 50% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of our applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 100% of sales projections for such fiscal year. The Bonus, if any, was be paid to Mr. Hunt upon the earlier of (1) the completion of the preparation of our audited financial statements for such fiscal year and (2) April 1 of our next fiscal year. Mr. Hunt received, upon approval by our Board of Directors, non-qualified options to purchase 12,000,000 shares of our common stock, at a per share exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the June 7, 2013 grant date and vested in 24 equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after June 7, 2013. The options included a cashless exercise feature.
Mr. Hunt also entered into a NonCompetition, NonSolicitation and NonDisclosure Agreement dated June 7, 2013 whereby Mr. Hunt agreed to not compete with us for five years from June 7, 2013 or two years after any termination of employment of Mr. Hunt.
On May 30, 2014, we announced the resignation of Robert Hunt effective May 23, 2014 as Executive Vice President of Growlife, Inc., President of Growlife Hydroponics. On June 3, 2014, the Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Robert Hunt effective June 2, 2014 as a Director of the Company. On October 17, 2014, we entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement ("ESA") dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares. We agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock under certain conditions that have not been met, pay cash severance totaling $50,000 monthly over five month starting October 25, 2014 and reimburse Mr. Hunt for health insurance benefits and other expenses monthly over five months starting October 25, 2014. The Parties entered into a release agreement.
Executive Employment Agreement with John Genesi
On November 3, 2013, we entered into an Executive Employment Agreement with John Genesi, pursuant to which we engaged Mr. Genesi as our Chief Financial Officer from November 3, 2013 through November 2, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Genesi Agreement, Mr. Genesi received an annual salary of $100,000, he was eligible for any benefits made generally available by us, he was eligible to receive any bonuses made generally available by us, and he was reimbursed for any reasonable expenses incurred while performing his duties as our Chief Financial Officer. The Genesi Agreement also granted Mr. Genesi non-qualified options to purchase 10,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of grant. The options included a cashless exercise feature and vested in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing on October 31, 2013. In the event that our Board of Directors excepted any offers that would when executed result in a change of control transaction involving more than 50% of the issued shares of us, then vesting of non-qualified options to Mr. Genesi shall be accelerated, at the election in writing by the Mr. Genesi, to the date on which our Board of Directors determined to accept such offer.
On July 15, 2014, we entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013. We issued 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock, pay cash severance of six months of compensation payable monthly and provide health insurance benefits for six months from the Termination Date.
Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control
The Company’s Employment Agreement with Marco Hegyi has provisions providing for severance payments as detailed below.
| | | | | | |
| Executive | | | | | |
| Payments Upon | | | | | |
| Separation | | | | | |
| Compensation: | | | | | |
| Base salary (1) | $- | $- | $468,750 | $600,000 | $- |
| Performance-based incentive | | | | | |
| compensation | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- |
| Stock options | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- |
| | | | | | |
| Benefits and Perquisites: | | | | | |
| Health and welfare benefits | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- |
| Accrued vacation pay | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- |
| | | | | | |
| Total | $- | $- | $468,750 | $600,000 | $- |
| Executive | | For Cause | | | | | | | | | | | | Disability | |
| Payments Upon | | Termination | | | Retirement | | | Termination | | | Termination | | | or Death | |
| Separation | | on 12/31/14 | | | on 12/31/14 | | | on 12/31/14 | | | on 12/31/14 | | | on 12/31/14 | |
| Compensation: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Base salary (1) | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 500,000 | | | $ | 600,000 | | | $ | - | |
| Performance-based incentive | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| compensation | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| Stock options | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Benefits and Perquisites: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Health and welfare benefits | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| Accrued vacation pay | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total | | $ | - | | | $ | - | | | $ | 500,000 | | | $ | 600,000 | | | $ | - | |
(1) | Reflects amounts to be paid upon termination without cause and upon termination in a change of control, less any months worked. |
Mr. Sterling C. Scott, Robert Hunt and John Genesi resigned during 2014. Mr. Scott and Mr. Barnes currently do not have amounts to be paid upon termination without cause and upon termination in a change of control, less any months worked.
.Mr. Scott and Mr. Barnes currently do not have amounts to be paid upon termination without cause and upon termination in a change of control. There outstanding stock options vests fully vest under certain conditions.conditions.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
We primarily use stock options grants to incentive compensation to attract and retain qualified candidates to serve on the Board. This compensation reflected the financial condition of the Company. In setting director compensation, we consider the significant amount of time that Directors expend in fulfilling their duties to the Company as well as the skill-level required by our members of the Board. During year ended December 31, 2014, Ronald Erickson2016, Marco Hegyi did not receive any compensation for his service as a director. The compensation disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table on page 36 represents the total compensation.
Director Summary Compensation
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Name | $ | | | | $ | | |
| Marco Hegyi | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- | $- |
| | | | | | | | |
| Michael E. Fasci (2) | - | 65,000 | - | - | - | - | 65,000 |
| | | | | | | | |
| Tara Antal (3) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| | | | | | | | |
| Brad Fretti (4) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| | | | | | | | |
| | $- | $65,000 | $- | $- | $- | $- | $65,000 |
(1)These amounts reflect the grant date market value as required by Regulation S-K Item 402(n)(2), computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
(2)On March 31, 2014,January 27, 2016, we issued 500,0001,500,000 shares to each of its four independent Board Directors (Eric Shevin, Alan Hammer, Anthony J. Ciabattoni and Jeff Giarraputo). Wecommon stock to Michael E. Fasci pursuant to a service award for $15,000. The shares were valued at the 2,000,000 shares at $0.58 per share which was the closingfair market price of our$0.01 per share. On May 25, 2016, we issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael E. Fasci pursuant to a service award for $50,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share.
(3) Ms. Antal resigned as a director on March 31, 2014. We recorded stock based4, 2016. She did not receive any compensation of $1,160,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2014. On April 25, 2014, we entered into four Restricted Stock Cancellation Agreements with the four independent members of our Board of Directors, pursuant to which the Directors agreed to each cancel 500,000 shares of the our restricted common stock granted to each Directoras a director.
(4) Mr. Fretti resigned as a director on March 31, 2014. We recorded4, 2016. He did not receive any compensation as a reduction in common stock and an increase in additional paid in capital of $200 during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 are related to cancellation of the Restricted Stock Agreements.director.
Compensation Paid to Board Members
Our independent non-employee directors are not compensated in cash. The only compensation has been in the form of stock awards (see Director Summary Compensation just above).awards. There is no stock compensation plan for independent non-employee directors. There was no Director compensation during the year ended December 31, 2016.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the ownership of our common stock as of September 30, 2015December 31, 2016 by:
| | ● | each director and nominee for director; |
| | | |
| | ● | each person known by us to own beneficially 5% or more of our common stock; |
| | | |
| | ● | each officer named in the summary compensation table elsewhere in this report; and |
| | | |
| | ● | all directors and executive officers as a group. |
The amounts and percentages of common stock beneficially owned are reported on the basis of regulations of the SEC governing the determination of beneficial ownership of securities. Under the rules of the SEC, a person is deemed to be a “beneficial owner” of a security if that person has or shares voting power,” which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of such security,
or “investment power,” which includes the power to dispose of or to direct the disposition of such security. A person is also deemed to be a beneficial owner of any securities of which that person has the right to acquire beneficial ownership within 60 days. Under these rules more than one person may be deemed a beneficial owner of the same securities and a person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of securities as to which such person has no economic interest.
Unless otherwise indicated below, each beneficial owner named in the table has sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all shares beneficially owned, subject to community property laws where applicable. The address of each beneficial owner is 500 Union Street, Suite 810, Seattle,5400 Carillon Point, Kirkland, WA 9810198033 and the address of more than 5% of common stock is detailed below.
| | | Shares Beneficially Owned | |
| Name of Beneficial Owner | | Number | | | Percentage (1) | |
| Directors and Named Executive Officers- | | | | | | |
| Marco Hegyi (2) | | | 25,000,000 | | | | 2.7 | % |
| Mark E. Scott (3) | | | 6,722,222 | | | | * | |
| Anthony J. Ciabattoni (4) | | | 72,222 | | | | * | |
| Jeff Giarraputo (5) | | | 72,222 | | | | * | |
| Joseph Barnes (6) | | | 4,300,000 | | | | * | |
| Total Directors and Officers (5 in total) | | | 36,166,666 | | | | 4.0 | % |
| | Shares Beneficially Owned
|
Name of Beneficial Owner
| | |
Directors and Named Executive Officers
| |
|
| Marco Hegyi (2) | 40,000,000 | 2.4% |
| Mark E. Scott (3) | 14,777,778 | 0.9% |
Michael E. Fasci (4)
| 5,500,000 | * |
Joseph Barnes (5)
| 6,800,000 | * |
Total Directors and Officers (4 in total)
| 67,077,778 | 4.1% |
* Less than 1%.
(1)
Based on 902,116,4961,656,120,083 shares of common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2015.December 31, 2016.
(2) Reflects the shares beneficially owned by Marco Hegyi, including warrants to purchase 25,000,00035,000,000 shares of our common stock.stock at $0.01 per share/
(3) Reflects the shares beneficially owned by Mark E. Scott, including stock option grants totaling 6,722,2221,777,778 shares that Mr. Scott has the right to acquire in sixty days.
(4) Reflects 72,222 shares of commonthe shares beneficially owned by Mr. Ciabattoni for board services for the period December 19, 2013 through December 31, 2013. Mr. Ciabattoni’s shares have been issued to the Ciabattoni Living Trust, of which Mr. Ciabattoni is the Trustee. Michael E. Fasci.
(5) Reflects 72,222 shares of common shares beneficially owned by Mr. Giarraputo for board services for the period December 19, 2013 through December 31, 2013.
(6) Reflects the shares beneficially owned by Joseph Barnes, including stock option grants totaling 4,000,0006,500,000 shares that Mr. Barnes has the right to acquire in sixty days.
| | | Shares Beneficially Owned | |
| Name and Address of Beneficial Owner | | Number | | | Percentage | |
| Greater Than 5% Ownership - | | | | | | |
| Sterling C. Scott (1) | | | 47,000,518 | | | | 5.2% | |
| 2315 Georgia Villa Way | | | | | | | | |
| Silver Springs, MD 20902 | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CANX USA LLC (2) | | | | | | | | |
| 410 South Rampart Blvd., Suite 350 | | | 540,000,000 | | | | 37.4% | |
| Las Vegas, NV 89145 | | | | | | (Capped at | |
| | | | | | | | 4.99%) | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Logic Works LLC (3) | | | 142,099,000 | | | | 14.1% | |
| 9616 Emeraude Avenue | | | | | | (Capped at | |
| Las Vegas, NV 89147 | | | | | | | 4.99%) | |
| | Shares Beneficially Owned |
| Name and Address of Beneficial Owner | | |
| CANX USA LLC (1) | | |
| 410 South Rampart Blvd., Suite 350 | 540,000,000 | 24.6% |
| Las Vegas, NV 89145 | | |
| | | 4.99%) |
| | | |
| Logic Works LLC (2) | 92,774,167 | 5.3% |
| 9616 Emeraude Avenue | | |
| Las Vegas, NV 89147 | | 4.99%) |
(1) Reflects 47,000,518 shares beneficially owned by Sterling C. Scott, and which was confirmed in Mr. Scott’s Form 13-D/A that was filed with the SEC on December 29, 2014.
(2) Reflects a warrant to purchase common stock totaling 540,000,000 beneficially owned by CANX USA LLC. CANX does not consider themselves a control group based on the individual ownership and legal structure of CANX. Each owner has a 4.99% ownership limit and the owners cannot act as a control group.
(3)(2) Reflects 35,714,286 shares owned by Logic Works LLC and 106,384,71492,774,167 shares beneficially owned by Logic Works LLC related to Convertible Notes. Logic Works does not consider themselves a control group because Logic Works has a 4.99% ownership limit.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation
On March 21, 2012, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation, a Nevada corporation and the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, SG Technologies Corp, a Nevada corporation (“SGT”), Sterling C. Scott, and W-Net Fund I, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership and current holder of the Company’s common stock. The transaction closed on April 5, 2012. At the Closing, (i) The Merger Corporation was merged with and into SGT; (ii) SGT became the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary; and (iii) all SGT shares of common stock were exchanged for shares of our common stock and shares of a new series of our preferred stock, which was designated Series A Preferred Stock. At the Closing, the Company issued to SGT’s former stockholders 157,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and 3,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock in exchange for the 200 shares of SGT’s common stock outstanding immediately prior to the Merger. Sterling C. Scott was appointed to the then Company’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer.
After the Merger, former holders of SGT’s common stock owned in excess of 50% of our fully-diluted shares of common stock, and as a result of certain other factors, including that all members of our executive management are members of SGT’s management, SGT is deemed to be the acquiring company and the Company was deemed to be the legal acquirer for accounting purposes, and the Merger was accounted for as a reverse merger and a recapitalization in accordance with GAAP. The consolidated financial statements of GrowLife and its subsidiaries reflect the historical activity of SGT, and the historical stockholders’ equity of SGT has been retroactively restated for the equivalent number of shares received in the exchange.
Acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC
On June 7, 2013, GrowLife Hydroponics completed the purchase of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“RMC”), and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, a Maine limited liability company (“EGC”). The effective date of the purchase was June 7, 2013. The Company purchased all of the assets and liabilities of the RMH and EGC Companies, and their retail hydroponics stores, which are located in Vail and Boulder, Colorado and Portland, Maine. The Company purchased RMC and EGC from Robert Hunt, who was appointed to the then Company’s Board of Directors and President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc.
Agreements with CANX USA, LLC
On July 10, 2014, we closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company. The Agreements require the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
Previously, we entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX USA LLC, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding the Company’s operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitating additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000. In connection with the closing of the Agreement, CANX agreed to provide a commitment for funding in the amount of $1,300,000 for a GrowLife Infrastructure Funding Technology program transaction and provided additional funding under a 7% Convertible Note instrument for $1,000,000, including $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III Investments LLC, entities that are unaffiliated with CANX and operate as separate legal entities. We initially owned a non-dilutive 45% share of OGI and we may acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Joint Venture Agreement. In accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby the Company delivered to CANX a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of the Company common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share. Also in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, we issued an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of our common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share on February 7, 2014.
On April 10, 2014, as a result of the suspension in the trading of our securities, we went into default on our 7% Convertible Notes Payable for $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III. As a result, we accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 24% per annum. Furthermore, as a result of being in default on these notes, the Holders could have, at their sole discretion, called these notes.
Waiver and Modification Agreement
We entered into a Waiver and Modification Agreement dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works LLC whereby the 7% Convertible Note with Logic Works dated December 20, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) a waiver of the default under the 7% Convertible Note; (ii) a conversion price which is the lesser of (A) $0.025 or (B) twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable Conversion Date on which the Holder elects to convert all or part of this Note; (iii) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014; and (iv) continuing interest of 24% per annum. China West III converted its Note into common stock on June 4, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement
We entered into an Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement dated July 1, 2014 with CANX whereby the Joint Venture Agreement dated November 19, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) up to $12,000,000 in conditional financing subject to review by GrowLife and approval by OGI for business growth development opportunities in the legal cannabis industry for up to six months, subject to extension; (ii) up to $10,000,000 in working capital loans, with each loaning requiring approval in advance by CANX; (iii) confirmed that the five year warrants, subject to extension, at $0.033 per share for the purchase of 140,000,000 and 100,000,000 were fully earned and were not considered compensation for tax purposes by the Company; (iv) granted CANX five year warrants, subject to extension, to purchase 300,000,000 shares of common stock at the fair market price of $0.033 per share as determined by an independent appraisal; (v) warrants as defined in the Agreement related to the achievement of OGI milestones; (vi) a four year term, subject to adjustment and (vi) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility
We entered into a Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works whereby Logic Works agreed to provide up to $500,000 in funding. Each funding requires approval in advance by Logic Works, provides for interest at 6% with a default interest of 24% per annum and requires repayment by June 26, 2016. The Note is convertible into our common stock at the lesser of $0.0070 or (B) 20% of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the 20 consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which Logic Works elects to convert all or part of this 6% Convertible Note, subject to adjustment as provided in the Note. The 6% Convertible Note is collateralized by our assets. We also agreed to file a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and have the registration statement declared effective within ninety days of the filing of our Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014. Due to our grey sheet trading status and other issues, we have not filed the registration statement.
On July 10, 2014, we closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company. As of June 30, 2015, we have borrowed $350,000 under the Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works.
Agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”)
On July 9, 2015, we closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP, an accredited investor, whereby we agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 may be purchased in additional closings. The closing of the Transaction occurred on July 9, 2015.
On August 6, 2015, we closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP, whereby we agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior secured convertible redeemable debenture and we agreed to issue and sell to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from us up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a Committed Equity Facility. The closing of the Transaction occurred on August 6, 2015.
The Debentures contain a 4.99% beneficial ownership limitation which prevents TCA from being considered a control group under SEC rules. The Company does not consider TCA a control person under SEC rules and this transaction is not a related party transaction.
Review and Approval of Related Person Transactions
We have operated under a Code of Conduct for many years. Our Code of Conduct requires all employees, officers and directors, without exception, to avoid the engagement in activities or relationships that conflict, or would be perceived to conflict, with the Company’s interests or adversely affect its reputation. It is understood, however, that certain relationships or transactions may arise that would be deemed acceptable and appropriate upon full disclosure of the transaction, following review and approval to ensure there is a legitimate business reason for the transaction and that the terms of the transaction are no less favorable to the Company than could be obtained from an unrelated person.
The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing and approving all transactions with related persons. The Company has not adopted a written policy for reviewing related person transactions. The Company reviews all relationships and transactions in which the Company and our directors and executive officers or their immediate family members are participants to determine whether such persons have a direct or indirect material interest. As required under SEC rules, transactions that are determined to be directly or indirectly material to the Company or a related person are disclosed.
Related Party TransactionsCertain Relationships
Since January 1, 2013, we have engaged in
42
Please see the following reportable transactions with our directors, executive officers, holders of more than 5% of our voting securities,CANX, LLC and affiliates or immediately family members of our directors, executive officersLogic Works in Note 5, TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP and holders of more than 5% of our voting securities.Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. discussed in Note 7, 8 10 and 13.
Transactions with an EmployeeEntity Controlled by Marco Hegyi
An entity controlled by Mr. Hegyi received a warrant to purchase up to twenty five million shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.08 per share was reduced to $0.01 per share on December 18, 2015.
On March 14, 2013, we entered into a Notes Payable with an employee $25,000. The Note Payable provides for interest 6% per year with a term of ninety days. On June 26, 2013, we signed an Amended Note Payable, extendingApril 15, 2016, the term through September 30, 2013. On September 6, 2013, weCompany issued 1,224,9181,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $20,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share.
On October 12, 2016, the Company issued 4,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $40,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share.
On October 21, 2016, we entered into Agreement with Marco Hegyi pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Hegyi as its Chief Executive Officer through October 20, 2018. Mr. Hegyi’s previous Employment Agreement was dated December 4, 2013 and which is set to expire on December 4, 2016. Mr. Hegyi received a Warrant to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share which vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Warrants are exercisable for 5 years.
Transactions with an Entity Controlled by Mark E. Scott
An entity controlled by Mr. Scott received an option to purchase sixteen million shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.021 as payment in full$0.07 per share was reduced to $0.01 per share on December 18, 2015. Two million shares vested on August 17, 2015 with the Company’s resolution of the $25,000 principal and $723 of accrued and unpaid interest.class action lawsuits. An additional two million share stock option vest on April 18, 2016 upon the Company securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s relisting on OTCBB.
On March 20, 2013, this employee purchasedJanuary 4, 2016, we issued 3,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Mark E. Scott, Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $30,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share.
On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. Mr. Scott has an additional 2,000,000 share stock option grant which continues to vest monthly over 36 months and a 2,000,000 share stock option grant which vests upon the achievement of certain performance goals related to acquisitions.
On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, converted $40,000 in deferred compensation into 4,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average.
On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, was granted 6,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average.
Transactions with Michael E. Fasci
On January 27, 2016, we issued 1,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael Fasci, a member of the Board of Directors, for director services. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share.
On May 25, 2016, we issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael Fasci, a member of the Board of Directors, for director services. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share.
On October 21, 2016, we entered into a Consulting Agreement with an entity controlled by Michael E. Fasci, a Director. Mr. Fasci is to provide services related to lender management, financing and acquisitions. Mr. Fasci’s compensation is 2,000,000 shares of the Company’sour common stock valued at a price of $0.035$0.01 per share. The aggregate proceeds were $70,000. The shares were purchased as part of the Company’s Subscription Agreement dated December 2011.
Loansshare and Advances from Sterling C. Scott
Sterling Scott advanced various amounts to us. As of December 31, 2011, the amount due the then CEO was $183,103, and additional advances of $98,897 were made to us through April 5, 2012. On April 5, 2012, Mr. Scott converted $282,000 of these advances into a 6% senior convertible note. Mr. Scott made further advances during the year ended December 31, 2012 which were converted into the 6% senior convertible note. As of December 31, 2013, total amount owed to Mr. Scott was $453,932, which consisted of $413,680 in principal and $40,252 in accrued interest. As of September 10, 2014, the outstanding principal balance on Mr. Scott’s 6% convertible note was $413,680 and accrued interest were sold to two parties not related to us.
Investment in Vape Holdings, Inc.
In May 2013, we made an investment in the amount of $1,160 in Vape Holdings, Inc., a Nevada corporation, and received 200,428 shares.
Sterling C. Scott, our then Chief Executive Officer, also owned 257,320 shares of Vape’s common stock. Furthermore, the former President of GrowLife, Inc., Kyle Tracey, was the Chief Executive Officer of Vape. As a result, we deemed Vape to be a related partyissued on April 21, 2017 and therefore has recorded its investment in Vape as an “Investment in a related party” on its balance sheet.
The value of our investment in Vape as of December 31, 2013 was $5.60 per share, or $1,122,397. We sold 200,428 shares of Vape’s common stock during the year ended December 31, 2014 for net proceeds of $186,791 which was recorded as “other income” in the statement of operations. As of December 31, 2014, we recorded a $1,122,397 loss in the value of its investment in Vape by decreasing its “Investment in a related party” balance sheet account while also recording a corresponding decrease to “Unrealized loss on investment in a related party” in the Stockholders’ deficit section of our balance sheet.October 21, 2017.
Agreement with Jeff Giarraputo
On February 26, 2014, we engaged Jeff Giarraputo, a member of the Board of Directors, as an advisor to us for six months effective as of February 15, 2014. Mr. Giarraputo agreed to provide marketing, business development, and general management to us related to the cannabis industry. As compensation for these services, and subject to approval by our Board of Directors, we were expected to grant Mr. Giarraputo a stock option to purchase 2,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.31 per share, which represents the 30-day trailing average of the our common stock. All shares subject to the option will vestvested over a six monthsix-month period beginning on the date of engagement and are subject to the terms and conditions of our 2011 Stock Incentive Plan including vesting requirements. On August 19, 2014, the Parties cancelled this Agreement and the stock option grant was not issued.
Director Independence
The Board has affirmatively determined that Anthony J. Ciabattoni and Jeff Giarraputo are independent. Michael E. Fasci is independent as of December 31, 2016. For purposes of making that determination, the Board used NASDAQ’s Listing Rules even though the Company is not currently listed on NASDAQ. The Board expects to appoint independent directors during 2015.2017 so that the majority of the Directors are independent.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policy
The Audit Committee has established a pre-approval policy and procedures for audit, audit-related and tax services that can be performed by the independent auditors without specific authorization from the Audit Committee subject to certain restrictions. The policy sets out the specific services pre-approved by the Audit Committee and the applicable limitations, while ensuring the independence of the independent auditors to audit the Company's financial statements is not impaired. The pre-approval policy does not include a delegation to management of the Audit Committee’s responsibilities under the Exchange Act. During the year ended September 30, 2014,December 31, 2016, the Audit Committee pre-approved all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our independent auditors.
Service Fees Paid to the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
On August 7, 2015,July 13, 2016, we dismissed Anton and Chia,PMB Helin Donovan LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm. Anton and Chia LLP performed an annual audit of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012. On August 7, 2015July 13, 2016 we engaged the services of PMB Helin DonovanSD Mayer and Associates, LLP as our new independent registered public accounting firm to audit our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 20142016 and 2015 and for the yearyears then ended. The decision to change accountants was approved by our Audit Committee.
The following is the breakdown of aggregate fees paid to Anton and Chia, LLP for the last two fiscal years:
| | | Year Ended | | | Year Ended | | |
| | | December 31, 2014 | | | December 31, 2013 | | | |
| Audit fees | | $ | 31,007 | | | $ | 75,197 | | $52,500 | $67,225 |
| Audit related fees | | | 36,504 | | | | 24,742 | | 10,000 | 26,480 |
| Tax fees | | | - | | | | - | | 20,355 | - |
| All other fees | | | 6,292 | | | | 33,690 | | 12,500 | 6,050 |
| | | | | | | �� | | | |
| | | $ | 73,803 | | | $ | 133,629 | | $95,355 | $99,755 |
- “Audit Fees” are fees paid for to PMB for professional services for the audit of our financial statements.
- “Audit-Related fees” are fees paid to Mayer for professional services not included in the first two categories, specifically, SAS 100 reviews, SEC filings and consents, and accounting consultations on matters addressed during the audit or interim reviews, and review work related to quarterly filings.
- “Tax Fees” are fees primarily for tax compliance paid to PMB and Mayer in connection with filing US income tax returns.
- “All other fees for 2013were paid to PMB related to the review of registration statements on Form S-1.
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
The Company’s financial statements, as indicated by the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth below, begin on page F-1 of this Form 10-K, and are hereby incorporated by reference. Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| Title of Document | | Page |
| Report of SD Mayer and Associates, LLP | | |
Report of Anton and Chia, LLP
| | |
| | | |
ReportConsolidated Balance Sheets as of PMB Helin Donovan, LLP
| | |
| | | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013
| | |
| | |
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013 | | F-3 |
| | | |
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013 | | F-4 |
| | | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013 | | F-5 |
| | | |
Notes to the Financial Statements | | F-6 |
| Exhibit No. | | Description |
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| 3.1 | | Certificate of Incorporation. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-SB General Form for Registration of Securities of Small Business Issuers filed with the SEC on December 7, 2007, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 3.2 | | Amended and Restated Bylaws. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 9, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 3.3 | Second Amended and Restated Bylaws of GrowLife, Inc. dated October 16, 2015. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 26, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 3.4 | Certificate of Designation for Series B Preferred Stock. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 29, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 3.5 | Certificate of Designation for Series C Preferred Stock. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 29, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 4.1 | | GrowLife, Inc. 2011 Stock Incentive Plan filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on June 9,8, 2011, and incorporated by reference. |
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10.1 | | Agreement and Plan of Merger dated March 21, 2012, by and between Phototron Holdings, Inc., SGT
Merger Corporation, SG Technologies Corp, Sterling C. Scott and W-Net Fund I, L.P. Filed as an exhibit
to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on March 22, 2012, and hereby incorporated by
reference.
|
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10.2 | | Securities Purchase and Exchange Agreement, dated March 16, 2012, by and between Phototron Holdings,
Inc., W-Net Fund I, L.P., and Europa International Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and
filed with the SEC on March 22, 2012, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.3 | | Security Agreement, dated March 16, 2012, by and between Phototron Holdings, Inc., W-Net Fund I, L.P.,
Europa International Inc., GrowLife, Inc., and Phototron, Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form
8-K and filed with the SEC on March 22, 2012, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.4 | | Intellectual Property Security Agreement, dated March 16, 2012, by and between Phototron Holdings, Inc.,
W-Net Fund I, L.P., Europa International Inc., GrowLife, Inc., and Phototron, Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on March 22, 2012, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.5 | | Form of 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on March 22, 2012, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.610.1 | | Form of 7% Convertible Note. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SECSC onOctober 11, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
10.7 | | Securities Purchase Agreement dated June 7, 2013, by and between GrowLife, Inc., GrowLifeHydroponics, Inc., Sequoia, LLC, Pressure Drop Holdings, LLC and Sachin Karia. Filed as an exhibit to
the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 7, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.8 | | Revolving Promissory Note dated June 7, 2013 issued by GrowLife, Inc. in favor of W-Net Fund I, L.P.Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 7, 2013, and hereby
incorporated by reference.
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10.9 | | Form of 12% Senior Secured Convertible Note. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filedwith the SEC on June 7, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.10 | | Security Agreement dated June 7, 2013, by and between GrowLife, Inc., Sequoia, LLC, Pressure DropHoldings, LLC, Sachin Karia and Robert E. Hunt. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed
with the SEC on June 7, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
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10.11 | 10.2 | Joint Venture Agreement dated November 19, 2013 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on November 21, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.12 | 10.3 | Warrant Agreement by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on November 21, 2013, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.13 | | 7% Convertible Note by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an exhibit to theCompany’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on November 21, 2013, and hereby incorporated by10.4
reference.
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10.14 | | Registration Rights Agreement by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an exhibitto the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on November 21, 2013, and hereby incorporated by
reference.
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10.15 | | Commercial Lease Agreement dated March 8, 2013 by and between Evergreen Garden Center LLC and William C. Rowell Family Limited Partnership for our Portland, Maine store. Filed herewith.as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K dated December 31, 2014 and filed with the SEC on September 30, 2015, and incorporated by reference. |
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10.16 | 10.5 | Lease dated October 21, 2013 by and between GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. and Stone Creek Business Center Ltd. for our Avon (Vail), Colorado store. Filed herewith.as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K dated December 31, 2014 and filed with the SEC on September 30, 2015, and incorporated by reference. |
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10.17 | | Retail Lease Agreement dated January 23, 2014 by and between GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. and W-ADP Meadows VII LLC for our Boulder, Colorado store. Filed herewith. |
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10.18 | | Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note dated September 10, 2014 by and betweenGrowLife, Inc. and Andrew J. Gentile. Filed herewith.
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10.19 | | Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note dated September 10, 2014 by and betweenGrowLife, Inc. and Jordan W. Scott. Filed herewith.
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10.20 | 10.6 | Warrant related to CANX USA LLC Joint Development Agreement dated November 19, 2013. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K and filed with the SEC on November 21, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.2110.7 | | Executive Services Agreement dated June 7, 2013 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Robert Hunt. Filedas an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A2 dated June 7, 2013 and filed with the SEC on June 25, 2014,
and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.22 | | NonCompetition, NonSolicitation and NonDisclosure Agreement dated June 7, 2013 with Robert Hunt.Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A2 dated June 7, 2013 and filed with the SEC on June 25,
2014, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.23 | | Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and SterlingScott. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated November 3, 2013 and filed with the SEC
on June 25, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.24 | | Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and JohnGenesi. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated November 3, 2013 and filed with the
SEC on June 25, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.25 | | Employment Agreement for Marco Hegyi dated December 4, 2013. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A dated December 9, 2013 and filed with the SEC on June 20, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.2610.8 | | Amended Employment Agreement for Marco Hegyi dated June 20, 2014. Attached as an exhibit to theCompany’s Form 8-K dated June 20, 2014 and filed with the SEC on June 20, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.2710.9 | | Restricted Stock Cancellation Agreement, dated April 25, 2014, by and between the Company and Eric Shevin. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated April 25, 2014 and filed with the SEC on April 30, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.28 | | Restricted Stock Cancellation Agreement, dated April 25, 2014, by and between the Company and Alan Hammer. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated April 25, 2014 and filed with the SEC on April 30, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.29 | | Restricted Stock Cancellation Agreement, dated April 25, 2014, by and between the Company and Tony Ciabattoni. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated April 25, 2014 and filed with the SEC on April 30, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.30 | | Consulting Letter by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Mark Scott Consulting Letter dated July 31, 2014. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 6, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.31 | 10.10 | Waiver and Modification Agreement dated June 25, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Logic Works LLC. Filed as an Exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A and filed with the SEC on August 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.32 | 10.11 | Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement dated July 1, 2013 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an Exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A and filed with the SEC on August 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.33 | 10.12 | Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note dated June 25, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Logic Works LLC. Filed as an Exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A and filed with the SEC on August 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.34 | 10.13 | Closing Certificate dated July 10, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC and Logic Works LLC. Filed as an Exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A and filed with the SEC on August 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.35 | 10.14 | Form of Warrant by and between GrowLife, Inc. and CANX USA LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K/A and filed with the SEC on August 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.36 | 10.15 | Settlement Agreement and Waiver of Default dated June 19, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Forglen LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.37 | | Severance Agreement dated July 15, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and John Genesi. Filed as anexhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 18, 2014, and hereby incorporated by
reference.
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10.38 | 10.16 | Joseph Barnes Promotion Letter dated October 10, 2014. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 14, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.3910.17 | | Notice of Settlement Agreement and Release dated October 17, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and RobertHunt.February 9, 2015. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 21, 2014, and
hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.40 | | Notice of Settlement Agreement dated February 9, 2015. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-Kand filed with the SEC on February 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.4110.18 | | Amendment 1 to Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note with Andrew J. Gentile.Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on April 8, 2015, and hereby
incorporated by reference.
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10.42 | | Amendment 1 to Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note with Jordan W. Scott. Filedas an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on April 8, 2015, and hereby
incorporated by reference.
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10.43 | | Stipulation and Agreement of Compromise, Settlement and Release of the Derivative Actions dated April 6, 2015. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 17, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.4410.19 | | Securities Purchase Agreement, dated July 9, 2015, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., itssubsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.45 | | Senior Secured, Convertible, Redeemable Debenture entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. andTCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the
SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.46 | | Form of Security Agreement entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, respectively,and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with
the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.47 | | Form of Guaranty Agreement entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc.’s subsidiaries, respectively, andTCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the
SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.48 | | Form of Pledge Agreement entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit MasterFund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.4910.20 | | Intercreditor Agreement, dated July 9, 2015,Senior Secured, Convertible, Redeemable Debenture entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries,Logic Works LLC and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form
8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.50 | | Form of Subordination Agreement, dated July 9, 2015, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., itssubsidiaries, TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP and Jordan Scott and Andrew Gentile, respectively.
Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.5110.21 | | Form of Amendment No. 2 to 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note, dated July 9, 2015, entered into byand between GrowLife, Inc. and Jordan Scott and Andrew Gentile, respectively. Filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.52 | | Investment Banking Letter dated August 27, 2014 by and between GrowLife, Inc. and D. Weckstein & Co.Inc. Filed herewith.
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10.53 | | Securities PurchaseSecurity Agreement dated August 6, 2015 and entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., itssubsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and
filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.54 | | Senior Secured Convertible Redeemable Debenture dated August 6, 2015 and entered into by andbetween GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the
Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference.
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10.55 | | Committed Equity Facility dated August 6, 2015 entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, respectively, and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12,July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.5610.22 | | Registration RightsForm of Guaranty Agreement dated August 6, 2015 entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc.’s subsidiaries, respectively, andTCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12,July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 10.23 | Form of Pledge Agreement entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.5710.24 | | AuthorizationIntercreditor Agreement, dated August 6,July 9, 2015, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries, Logic Works LLC and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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| 10.25 | Intercreditor Agreement, dated July 9, 2015, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries, Logic Works LLC and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.26
| Securities Purchase Agreement dated August 6, 2015 and entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
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10.27 | Senior Secured Convertible Redeemable Debenture dated August 6, 2015 and entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
10.28 | Committed Equity Facility dated August 6, 2015 entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
10.29 | Registration Rights Agreement dated August 6, 2015 entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
10.30 | Authorization Agreement dated August 6, 2015 entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 12, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
10.31 | Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, dated October 27, 2015, entered into by and among GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries, and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 29, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10. 32 | Amended and Restated Senior Secured, Convertible, Redeemable Debenture, dated October 27, 2015, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Purchaser. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 29, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.33 | Amendment to Employment Agreement by and between GrowLife Inc. and Marco Hegyi dated January 25, 2016 but effective December 18, 2015. |
| 10.34 | Securities Purchase Agreement, dated April 5, 2016, entered into by and among GrowLife, Inc., and Chicago Venture Partners, LP Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on April 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| | |
| 10.35 | Convertible Promissory Note, dated April 5, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Chicago Venture Partners, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on April 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
14.110.36 | Form of Secured Investor Note, dated April 5, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Chicago Venture Partners, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on April 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.37 | Waiver Agreement, dated April 11, 2016, by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on July 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.38 | First Amendment to Securities Purchase Agreement, effective as of May 4, 2016, entered into by and among GrowLife, Inc., its subsidiaries, and TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.39 | Second Replacement Debenture A, dated May 4, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.40 | Second Replacement Debenture B, dated May 4, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on May 9, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.41 | Debt Purchase Agreement, dated June 9, 2016, entered into by and between TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP, Old Main Capital, LLC and GrowLife, Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 16, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.42 | Exchange Agreement, dated June 9, 2016, entered into by and among Old Main Capital, LLC and GrowLife, Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 16, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.43 | 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note, dated June 9, 2016, entered into by and among Old Main Capital, LLC and GrowLife, Inc. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 16, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.44 | Option Agreement, dated June 8, 2016, entered into by and among TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP and Old Main Capital, LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on June 16, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.45 | Advisory Services Agreement, dated September 27, 2015, entered into by and GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on July 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.46 | Amendment to Advisory Services Agreement, dated October 27, 2015, entered into by and GrowLife, Inc. and TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on July 11, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.47 | Exchange Agreement dated August 17, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc. and Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 30, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.48 | Debt Purchase Agreement dated August 15, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP and Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 30, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.49 | First Amendment to Debt Purchase Agreement dated August 15, 2016, entered into by and between GrowLife, Inc., TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP and Old Main Capital, LLC. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on August 30, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.50 | Marco Hegyi Employment Agreement and Warrants dated October 21, 2016. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 27, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| |
| 10.51 | Consulting Agreement dated October 21, 2016 with an entity controlled by Michael E. Fasci (attached herewith). |
| |
| 10.52 | Consent to Judgement and Settlement Agreement dated December 7, 2016 y and between Evergreen Garden Center LLC and GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. and William C. Rowell Family Limited Partnership for our Portland, Maine store (attached herewith). |
| |
| 14.1 | Code of Conduct and Ethics dated May 15, 2014. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated June 3, 2014filed and filed with the SEC on June 9, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference.
|
| | |
| 16.1 | Letter dated July 14, 2016 from PMB Helin Donovan LLP. Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on July 14, 2016, and hereby incorporated by reference |
| |
| 21.1 | | Subsidiaries of the Registrant.Registrant (filed herewith). |
| |
| 31.01 | Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 Filed herewith. |
| |
| 31.02 | Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14 Filed herewith. |
| | |
| 32.01 | CEO Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act Filed herewith. |
| |
| 32.02 | CFO Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act Filed herewith. |
| |
| 99.1 | Amended and Restated Audit Committee Charter, dated October 16, 2015. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K and filed with the SEC on October 26, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| | Audit |
| 99.2 | Compensation Committee Charter dated May 15, 2014. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated June 3, 2014 and filed with the SEC on June 9, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| | | |
99.299.3 | | Compensation CommitteeAmended and Restated Nominations and Governance Charter, dated May 15, 2014. October 16, 2015.Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated June 3, 2014 and filed with the SEC on June 9, 2014,October 26, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| | | |
99.399.4 | | NominationsAmended and Governance Committee CharterRestated Insider Trading Policy, dated May 15, 2014. October 16, 2015. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated June 3, 2014 and filed with the SEC on June 9, 2014,October 26, 2015, and hereby incorporated by reference. |
| | | |
99.4101.INS* | | Insider Trading Policy dated May 15, 2014. Attached as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 8-K dated June 3, 2014 and filed with the SEC on June 10, 2014, and hereby incorporated by reference.XBRL Instance Document |
| | |
| 101.SCH* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
| |
101101.CAL* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document |
| |
Interactive data files pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T. Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and otherwise are not subject to liability.101.LAB* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document |
| |
| 101.PRE* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
| |
| 101.DEF* | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document |
| |
*Filed Herewith. Pursuant to Regulation S-T, this interactive data file is deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
GrowLife, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheetsheets of GrowLife, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 20132016 and 2015 and the related consolidated statementstatements of operations, stockholders’ deficit, and cash flowflows for the yearyears ended December 31, 2013.2016 and 2015. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.audits.
We conducted our auditaudits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditaudits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit providesaudits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of GrowLife, Inc. as of December 31, 2013,2016 and 2015, and the results of its consolidated operations and its cash flows for the yearyears ended December 31, 20132016 and 2015 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has sustained a net loss from operations and has an accumulated deficit since inception. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in this regard are also described in Note 2. The consolidated financial`financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Anton and Chia,SD Mayer & Associates, LLP
/s/ Anton and Chia, SD Mayer & Associates, LLP March 31, 20142017 Newport Beach, CASeattle, WA
|
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
GrowLife, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of GrowLife, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014 and the related consolidated statement of operations, stockholders’ deficit, and cash flow for the year ended December 31, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of GrowLife, Inc. as of December 31, 2014, and the results of its consolidated operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2014 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has sustained a net loss from operations and has an accumulated deficit since inception. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in this regard are also described in Note 2. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
PMB Helin Donovan, LLPCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
/s/ PMB Helin Donovan, LLP
September 30, 2015
Seattle, WA
|
| | | |
| ASSETS | | |
| | | |
| CURRENT ASSETS: | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $103,070 | $60,362 |
| Inventory, net | 418,453 | 398,439 |
| Deposits | 11,163 | 16,754 |
| Total current assets | 532,686 | 475,555 |
| | | |
| EQUIPMENT, NET | 1,890 | 10,327 |
| | | |
| OTHER ASSETS | | |
| Intangible assets, net | - | 243,604 |
| Goodwill | - | 739,000 |
| | | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | $534,576 | $1,468,486 |
| | | |
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' (DEFICIT) | | |
| | | |
| CURRENT LIABILITIES: | | |
| Accounts payable - trade | $1,529,919 | $1,272,572 |
| Accounts payable - related parties | 10,952 | 71,920 |
| Accrued expenses | 132,656 | 121,765 |
| Accrued expenses - related parties | 19,605 | 53,287 |
| Derivative liability | 2,701,559 | 1,377,175 |
| Current portion of convertible notes payable | 2,798,800 | 2,287,868 |
| Deferred revenue | 47,995 | 25,000 |
| Total current liabilities | 7,241,486 | 5,209,587 |
| | | |
| LONG TERM LIABILITIES: | | |
| Convertible notes payable | - | - |
| | | |
| COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | - | 2,000,000 |
| | | |
| MEZZANINE EQUITY: | | |
| Contingently redeemable common stock- | | |
| 0 and 15,000,000 shares issued and outstanding at 9/30/2016 and 12/31/2015, respectively | - | 300,000 |
| | | |
| STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT | | |
| Preferred stock - $0.0001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares | | |
| issued and outstanding | - | - |
| Series B Convertible Preferred stock - $0.0001 par value, 150,000 shares authorized, 0 and | | |
| 150,000 shares issued and outstanding at 12/31/16 and 12/31/15, respectively | - | 15 |
| Series C Convertible Preferred stock - $0.0001 par value, 51 shares authorized, | | |
| 51 shares issued and outstanding at 12/31/2016 and 12/31/2015, respectively | - | - |
| Common stock - $0.0001 par value, 3,000,000,000 shares authorized, 1,656,120,083 | | |
| and 891,116,496 shares issued and outstanding at 12/31/2016 and 12/31/2015, respectively | 165,600 | 89,098 |
| Additional paid in capital | 117,537,822 | 110,585,434 |
| Accumulated deficit | (124,410,332) | (116,715,648) |
| Total stockholders' deficit | (6,706,910) | (6,041,101) |
| | | |
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT | $534,576 | $1,468,486 |
| GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS |
| | | | | | | |
| | | December 31, 2014 | | | December 31, 2013 | |
| ASSETS | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| CURRENT ASSETS: | | | | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 286,238 | | | $ | 1,831,276 | |
| Restricted cash | | | - | | | | 46,400 | |
| Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $0 and $0, respectively | | | - | | | | 183,678 | |
| Inventory, net | | | 883,350 | | | | 1,253,721 | |
| Prepaid expenses | | | 41,791 | | | | 17,001 | |
| Other receivable | | | - | | | | 3,666 | |
| Deposits | | | 33,584 | | | | 46,173 | |
| Total current assets | | | 1,244,963 | | | | 3,381,915 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| EQUIPMENT, NET | | | 24,042 | | | | 53,758 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| OTHER ASSETS | | | | | | | | |
| Investment in related party | | | - | | | | 1,122,397 | |
| Intangible assets, net | | | 353,752 | | | | 460,300 | |
| Goodwill | | | 739,000 | | | | 739,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | | $ | 2,361,757 | | | $ | 5,757,370 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' (DEFICIT) | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CURRENT LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | |
| Accounts payable - trade | | $ | 1,129,130 | | | $ | 1,095,204 | |
| Accrued expenses | | | 385,024 | | | | 175,603 | |
| Deferred revenue | | | - | | | | 30,888 | |
| Derivative liability | | | 2,100,915 | | | | 9,324,000 | |
| Current portion of convertible notes payable | | | 887,272 | | | | - | |
| Related party note payable | | | - | | | | 1,160 | |
| Total current liabilities | | | 4,502,341 | | | | 10,626,855 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| LONG TERM LIABILITIES: | | | | | | | | |
| Convertible notes payable | | | 98,333 | | | | 974,479 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT | | | | | | | | |
| Preferred stock - $0.0001 par value, 3,000,000 shares authorized, no shares | | | | | | | | |
| issued and outstanding | | | - | | | | - | |
| Common stock - $0.0001 par value, 3,000,000,000 shares authorized, 879,343,771 | | | | | | | | |
| and 755,694,870 shares issued and outstanding at 12/31/14 and 12/31/13, respectively | | | 87,936 | | | | 75,571 | |
| Additional paid in capital | | | 108,699,950 | | | | 17,359,932 | |
| Unrealized gain on related party investment | | | - | | | | 1,121,237 | |
| Accumulated deficit | | | (111,026,803 | ) | | | (24,400,704 | ) |
| Total stockholders' deficit | | | (2,238,917 | ) | | | (5,843,964 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT | | $ | 2,361,757 | | | $ | 5,757,370 | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
| GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS |
| | | | | | | |
| | | Years Ended, | |
| | | December 31, 2014 | | | December 31, 2013 | |
| | | | | | | |
| NET REVENUE | | $ | 8,537,676 | | | $ | 4,858,976 | |
| COST OF GOODS SOLD | | | 7,172,376 | | | | 4,005,863 | |
| GROSS PROFIT | | | 1,365,300 | | | | 853,113 | |
| GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES | | | 4,405,503 | | | | 3,163,007 | |
| SHARES ISSUED FOR SERVICES RENDERED | | | 2,721,600 | | | | 1,469,184 | |
| STOCK OPTIONS EXPENSE | | | 724,267 | | | | 148,633 | |
| WARRANT EXPENSE | | | - | | | | 7,015,000 | |
| OPERATING LOSS | | | (6,486,070 | ) | | | (10,942,711 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | | | | | | | | |
| Change in fair value of derivative | | | (16,252,823 | ) | | | (3,701,078 | ) |
| Loss on extinguishment of debt | | | - | | | | (960,750 | ) |
| Interest expense, net | | | (64,073,997 | ) | | | (5,275,749 | ) |
| Realized gain on sale of investment | | | 186,791 | | | | - | |
| Other Income | | | - | | | | 42,269 | |
| Impairment of goodwill | | | - | | | | (279,515 | ) |
| Impairment of intangible assets | | | - | | | | (262,604 | ) |
| Total other (expense) | | | (80,140,029 | ) | | | (10,437,427 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES | | | (86,626,099 | ) | | | (21,380,138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Income taxes - current benefit | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NET (LOSS) | | $ | (86,626,099 | ) | | $ | (21,380,138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Basic and diluted (loss) per share | | $ | (0.10 | ) | | $ | (0.04 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding- basic and diluted | | | 834,503,868 | | | | 593,034,653 | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
| GROWLIFE INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Preferred Stock | | | Common Stock | | | | | | Additional Paid | | | Accumulated | | | | |
| | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Shares | | | Amount | | | Party | | | | | | | | | (Deficit) | |
| Balance as of December 31, 2012 | | | 3,000,000 | | | $ | 300 | | | | 389,704,765 | | | $ | 38,970 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,643,941 | | | $ | (3,020,566 | ) | | $ | (337,355 | ) |
| Comprehensive loss | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | (2,186,304 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cancellation of preferred stock | | | (3,000,000 | ) | | | (300 | ) | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 300 | | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Options exercised for cash | | | - | | | | - | | | | 470,237 | | | | 47 | | | | - | | | | 8,953 | | | | - | | | | 9,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cashless exercise of options | | | - | | | | - | | | | 3,680,773 | | | | 368 | | | | - | | | | (368 | ) | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cashless exercise of Gemini Master Fund Warrants | | | - | | | | - | | | | 9,000,000 | | | | 900 | | | | - | | | | (900 | ) | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of beneficial conversion feature of 6% convertible notes converted into common stock | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 328,498 | | | | - | | | | 328,498 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of beneficial conversion feature of 7% convertible notes converted into common stock | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 676,900 | | | | - | | | | 676,900 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Value of beneficial conversion feature related to the exchange of $750,000 Revolving Promissory Note | |
| for $750,000 7% convertible note | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 109,926 | | | | - | | | | 109,926 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of beneficial conversion feature related to the cashless exercise of the 5,000,000 Gemini Master Fund warrants | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 312,500 | | | | - | | | | 312,500 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of beneficial conversion feature related to the conversion of the $280,000 Gemini Master Fund note payable | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 208,000 | | | | - | | | | 208,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Value of beneficial conversion feature related to the issuance of 12% Convertible Notes related to the acquisition of Rocky | |
| Mountain, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 114,286 | | | | - | | | | 114,286 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Shares issued related to the conversion of principal and interest related to the convertible notes payable | | | - | | | | - | | | | 262,595,733 | | | | 26,261 | | | | - | | | | 3,014,739 | | | | - | | | | 3,041,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Shares issued related to the acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC | | | - | | | | - | | | | 7,857,141 | | | | 786 | | | | - | | | | 274,214 | | | | - | | | | 275,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Issuance of common stock | | | - | | | | - | | | | 36,981,862 | | | | 3,698 | | | | - | | | | 1,290,667 | | | | - | | | | 1,294,365 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Shares issued for services rendered | | | - | | | | - | | | | 45,404,359 | | | | 4,541 | | | | - | | | | 1,464,643 | | | | - | | | | 1,469,184 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of warrants expensed (issued to CANX and Hegyi, LLC) | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 6,765,000 | | | | - | | | | 6,765,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Stock based compensation for stock options | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 148,633 | | | | - | | | | 148,633 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Unrealized gain on investment in related party | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 1,121,237 | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 1,121,237 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net loss | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | (21,380,138 | ) | | | (21,380,138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance as of December 31, 2013 | | | - | | | | - | | | | 755,694,870 | | | | 75,571 | | | | 1,121,237 | | | | 17,359,932 | | | | (24,400,704 | ) | | | (5,843,964 | ) |
| Comprehensive loss | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | (21,380,138 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Options exercised for cash | | | - | | | | - | | | | 2,351,187 | | | | 235 | | | | - | | | | 44,438 | | | | - | | | | 44,673 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cashless exercise of options | | | - | | | | - | | | | 3,570,455 | | | | 357 | | | | - | | | | (357 | ) | | | - | | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Shares issued related to the conversion of principal and interest related to convertible notes payable | | | - | | | | - | | | | 102,507,839 | | | | 10,251 | | | | - | | | | 1,875,684 | | | | - | | | | 1,885,935 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Shares issued for services rendered | | | - | | | | - | | | | 15,219,420 | | | | 1,522 | | | | - | | | | 2,720,078 | | | | - | | | | 2,721,600 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Stock based compensation for stock options | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 724,267 | | | | - | | | | 724,267 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Loss on investment in related party | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | (1,121,237 | ) | | | - | | | | - | | | | (1,121,237 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Change in fair value of derivative liability | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 23,475,908 | | | | - | | | | 23,475,908 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Value of warrants expensed issued to CANX USA LLC or its assignees | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | 62,500,000 | | | | - | | | | 62,500,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2014 | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | | (86,626,099 | ) | | | (86,626,099 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance as of December 31, 2014 | | | - | | | $ | - | | | | 879,343,771 | | | $ | 87,936 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 108,699,950 | | | $ | (111,026,803 | ) | | $ | (2,238,917 | ) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
| GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS |
| | | | | | | |
| | | Years Ended, | |
| | | December 31, 2014 | | | December 31, 2013 | |
| | | | | | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | | | | | | |
| Net loss | | $ | (86,626,099 | ) | | $ | (21,380,138 | ) |
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) | | | | | | | | |
| operating activities | | | | | | | | |
| Depreciation and amortization | | | 33,641 | | | | 22,229 | |
| Reserve for inventories | | | - | | | | 62,882 | |
| Amortization of intangible assets | | | 106,548 | | | | 151,696 | |
| Change in inventory reserve | | | 12,711 | | | | - | |
| Stock based compensation | | | 724,267 | | | | - | |
| Stock options expense | | | - | | | | 148,633 | |
| Common stock issued for services | | | 2,721,600 | | | | 1,469,184 | |
| Amortization of debt discount | | | 1,363,847 | | | | 5,106,072 | |
| Change in fair value of derivative liability | | | 16,252,823 | | | | 3,701,078 | |
| Fair value of warrants issued | | | - | | | | 7,015,000 | |
| Expense related to warrant | | | 62,500,000 | | | | - | |
| Loss on extinguishment of debt | | | - | | | | 960,750 | |
| Accrued interest on convertible notes payable | | | 183,214 | | | | 161,587 | |
| Impairment of goodwill | | | - | | | | 279,515 | |
| Impairment of intangible assets | | | - | | | | 262,604 | |
| Realized gain on sale of investment | | | (186,791 | ) | | | - | |
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | | | | | | | | |
| Restricted Cash | | | 46,400 | | | | - | |
| Accounts receivable | | | 183,678 | | | | (127,129 | ) |
| Inventory | | | 357,660 | | | | (210,383 | ) |
| Prepaid expenses | | | (24,790 | ) | | | 18,071 | |
| Other receivable | | | 3,666 | | | | (3,666 | ) |
| Deposits | | | 12,589 | | | | 2,883 | |
| Accounts payable | | | 33,926 | | | | 468,517 | |
| Accrued expenses | | | 209,421 | | | | 102,291 | |
| Deferred revenue | | | (30,888 | ) | | | (2,750 | ) |
| CASH (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES | | | (2,122,577 | ) | | | (1,791,074 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | | | | | | | | |
| Cash paid to acquire shares in Vape Holdings, Inc. | | | - | | | | (1,160 | ) |
| Net cash proceeds from shares in Vape Holdings, Inc. | | | 187,951 | | | | - | |
| Cash paid to acquire Rocky Mountain Hydroponics | | | - | | | | (550,000 | ) |
| Cash acquired from acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics | | | - | | | | (1,398 | ) |
| Capital expenditures | | | (3,925 | ) | | | (5,500 | ) |
| NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | | | 184,026 | | | | (558,058 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | | | | | | | | |
| Proceeds from the issuance of common stock | | | - | | | | 1,294,365 | |
| Proceeds from the issuance of 10% convertible note | | | - | | | | 156,000 | |
| Proceeds from the issuance of convertible note | | | 350,000 | | | | 1,850,000 | |
| Proceeds from options exercised | | | 44,673 | | | | 9,000 | |
| Payment of notes payable | | | - | | | | 1,130,000 | |
| Payments of notes payable | | | - | | | | (296,719 | ) |
| Payments of notes payable - related party | | | (1,160 | ) | | | - | |
| Advances from related party | | | - | | | | 1,160 | |
| NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES | | | 393,513 | | | | 4,143,806 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | | | (1,545,038 | ) | | | 1,794,674 | |
| | | | | �� | | | | |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period | | | 1,831,276 | | | | 36,602 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period | | $ | 286,238 | | | $ | 1,831,276 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: | | | | | | | | |
| Interest paid | | $ | - | | | $ | 4,865 | |
| Taxes paid | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Non-cash investing and financing activities: | | | | | | | | |
| 6% Senior secured convertible notes and interest converted into common stock | | $ | 62,025 | | | $ | 1,427,809 | |
| 7% Convertible notes and interest converted into common stock | | $ | 1,384,207 | | | $ | 761,349 | |
| 12% Senior secured convertible notes and interest converted into common stock | | $ | 439,688 | | | $ | 415,842 | |
| Common stock issued for cashless exercise of options | | $ | 357 | | | $ | 1,268 | |
| Common stock issued for services rendered | | $ | - | | | $ | 7,015,000 | |
| Fair value of warrants | | $ | - | | | $ | 382,068 | |
| Common stock issued to acquire Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Evergreen | | | | | |
| Garden Center | | $ | - | | | $ | 275,000 | |
| 12% Senior secured convertible notes issued to acquire Rocky Mountain | | | | | |
| Hydroponics and Evergreen Garden Center | | $ | - | | | $ | 800,000 | |
| Notes payable and interest for Greners acquisition converted into common stock | | $ | - | | | $ | 156,000 | |
| OID Note converted into common stock | | $ | - | | | $ | 280,000 | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS |
| | |
| | | |
| | | |
| NET REVENUE | $1,231,281 | $3,499,642 |
| COST OF GOODS SOLD | 1,275,580 | 2,980,503 |
| GROSS PROFIT | (44,299) | 519,139 |
| GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES | 1,888,537 | 2,684,107 |
| IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS | 876,056 | - |
| OPERATING LOSS | (2,808,892) | (2,164,968) |
| | | |
| OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | | |
| Change in fair value of derivative | (1,324,384) | 1,678,541 |
| Interest expense, net | (816,750) | (1,118,635) |
| Other income (expense), primarily related to TCA funding | 144,882 | (2,002,533) |
| Loss on debt conversions | (2,889,540) | - |
| Loss on class action lawsuit settlements | - | (2,081,250) |
| Total other (expense) | (4,885,792) | (3,523,877) |
| | | |
| (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES | (7,694,684) | (5,688,845) |
| | | |
| Income taxes - current benefit | - | - |
| | | |
| NET (LOSS) | $(7,694,684) | $(5,688,845) |
| | | |
| Basic and diluted (loss) per share | $(0.01) | $(0.01) |
| | | |
| Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding- basic and diluted | 1,197,565,907 | 884,348,627 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT |
| | Series B Convertible Preferred Stock | Series C Convertible Preferred Stock | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | Investment in Related Party | Additional Paid in Capital | | Total Stockholders' (Deficit) |
| Balance as of December 31, 2014 | - | $- | - | $- | 879,343,771 | $87,936 | $- | $108,699,950 | $(111,026,803) | $(2,238,917) |
| Stock based compensation for stock options | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 175,661 | - | 175,661 |
| Shares issued for debt conversion | - | - | - | - | 7,772,725 | 777 | - | 170,223 | - | 171,000 |
| Shares issued for services rendered | - | - | - | - | 4,000,000 | 400 | | 39,600 | - | 40,000 |
| Issuance of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock | 150,000 | 15 | - | - | - | (15) | - | 1,500,000 | - | 1,500,000 |
| Issuance of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock | - | - | 51 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2015 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | (5,688,845) | (5,688,845) |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance as of December 31, 2015 | 150,000 | 15 | 51 | - | 891,116,496 | 89,098 | - | 110,585,434 | (116,715,648) | (6,041,101) |
| Stock based compensation for stock options | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 145,729 | - | 145,729 |
| Shares issued for debt conversion | - | - | - | - | 13,400,000 | 1,340 | - | 142,660 | - | 144,000 |
| Shares issued for services rendered | - | - | - | - | 26,020,000 | 2,602 | - | 282,598 | - | 285,200 |
| Shares issued for convertible note and interest conversion | - | - | - | - | 595,442,539 | 59,546 | - | 5,594,400 | - | 5,653,946 |
| Shares issued for mezzanine equity | | | | | 15,000,000 | 1,500 | - | 298,500 | - | 300,000 |
| Series B Convertible Preferred Stock converted into convertible notes payable | (150,000) | (15) | - | - | - | - | - | (1,499,985) | - | (1,500,000) |
| Shares issued for class action settlements | - | - | - | - | 115,141,048 | 11,514 | - | 1,988,486 | - | 2,000,000 |
| Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | (7,694,684) | (7,694,684) |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance as of December 31, 2016 | - | $- | 51 | $- | 1,656,120,083 | $165,600 | $- | $117,537,822 | $(124,410,332) | $(6,706,910) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES |
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS |
| | |
| | | |
| | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | | |
| Net loss | $(7,694,684) | $(5,688,845) |
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) | | |
| operating activities | | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 8,437 | 13,715 |
| Amortization of intangible assets | 106,548 | 106,548 |
| Stock based compensation | 145,729 | 175,661 |
| Preferred shares issued for services | - | 300,000 |
| Common stock issued for services | 285,200 | 210,985 |
| Amortization of debt discount | 514,668 | (158,237) |
| Change in fair value of derivative liability | 1,324,384 | (723,740) |
| Accrued interest on convertible notes payable | 120,824 | 310,500 |
| Loss on class action settlements | - | 2,000,000 |
| Loss on debt conversions | - | 1,500,000 |
| Excess and obsolete inventory | - | 20,215 |
| Write-off of patent expenses | - | 3,600 |
| Loss on debt conversions | 2,889,540 | - |
| Impairment of long-lived assets | 876,056 | - |
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | | |
| Inventory | 20,014 | 464,696 |
| Prepaid expenses | - | 41,791 |
| Deposits | (5,591) | 16,830 |
| Accounts payable | 196,379 | 215,362 |
| Accrued expenses | (22,791) | (209,972) |
| Deferred revenue | 22,995 | 25,000 |
| CASH (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES | (1,212,292) | (1,375,891) |
| | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | | |
| | - | - |
| | - | - |
| NET CASH PROVIDED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | - | - |
| | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | | |
| Cash provided from Convertible Promissory Note with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. | 1,255,000 | - |
| Proceeds from the issuance of convertible debt | - | 1,150,000 |
| Series B Convertible Preferred Stock | - | 15 |
| NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES | 1,255,000 | 1,150,015 |
| | | |
| NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | 42,708 | (225,876) |
| | | |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period | 60,362 | 286,238 |
| | | |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period | $103,070 | $60,362 |
| | | |
| Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: | | |
| Interest paid | $- | $10,500 |
| Taxes paid | $- | $- |
| | | |
| Non-cash investing and financing activities: | | |
| Shares issued for convertible note and interest conversion | $2,764,406 | $- |
| Shares issued for debt conversion | $144,000 | $171,000 |
| Shares issued for class action settlements | $2,000,000 | $- |
| Shares issued for mezzanine equity | $300,000 | $- |
| Series B Convertible Preferred Stock converted into convertible notes payable | $(1,500,000) | $- |
| Series B Convertible Preferred Stock converted into convertible notes payable debt discount | $315,669 | $- |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
GROWLIFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 – DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION
GrowLife, Inc. (“GrowLife” or the “Company”) wasis incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware and areis headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The Company was founded in 2012 with the Closing of the Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation. The Company has authorized common stock of 3,000,000,000 shares at $0.0001 par value and 3,000,000 shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 were authorized by the shareholders. There is no preferred stock issued and the terms have not been determined as of September 30, 2015.Corporation.
The Company’s goal of becoming the nation’s largest cultivation facility service provider for the production of organics, herbs and greens and plant-based medicines has not changed. The Company’s mission is to best serve more cultivators in the design, build-out, expansion and maintenance of their facilities with products of high quality, exceptional value and competitive price. Through a nationwide network of knowledgeable representatives, regional centers and its e-commerce website, GrowLife provides essential and hard-to-find goods including media (i.e., farming soil), industry-leading hydroponics equipment, organic plant nutrients, and thousands more products to specialty grow operations across the United States.
The Company primarily sells through its wholly owned subsidiary, GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. In addition to the promotion and sales of GrowLife owned brands, GrowLife companies distribute and sell over 3,00015,000 products through its e-commerce distribution channel, Greners.com,GrowLifeEco.com, and through our regional retail storefronts. GrowLife and its business units are organized and directed to operate strictly in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws.
Past Merger and Acquisition Transactions
On June 7, 2013, GrowLife Hydroponics completed the purchase of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“RMC”), and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, a Maine limited liability company (“EGC”). The effective date of the purchase was June 7, 2013. The Company purchased all of the assets and liabilities of the RMH and EGC Companies, and their retail hydroponics stores, which are located in Vail and Boulder, Colorado and Portland, Maine. The Company purchased RMC and EGC from Rob Hunt, who was appointed to the then Company’s Board of Directors and President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc.
On July 23, 2012, the Company completed the purchase of substantially all of the assets of Donna Klauenburch and Tao Klauenburch related to the online retail business Greners.com.
On October 24, 2012, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc., a Delaware corporation, completed the purchase of all of the shares of Soja, Inc. dba Urban Garden Supplies (the “Urban Garden”) from Richard Melograno, Michael Cook, and Scott Glass (collectively the “UG Sellers”). The Company acquired all of the assets and liabilities of Urban Garden which included the inventory of the store located at 22516 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91364.
Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation
On March 21, 2012, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with SGT Merger Corporation, a Nevada corporation and the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, SG Technologies Corp, a Nevada corporation (“SGT”), Sterling C. Scott, and W-Net Fund I, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership and current holder of the Company’s common stock. The transaction closed on April 5, 2012. At the Closing, (i) The Merger Corporation was merged with and into SGT; (ii) SGT became the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary; and (iii) all SGT shares of common stock were exchanged for shares of our common stock and shares of a new series of our preferred stock, which was designated Series A Preferred Stock. At the Closing, the Company issued to SGT’s former stockholders 157,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and 3,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock in exchange for the 200 shares of SGT’s common stock outstanding immediately prior to the Merger. Sterling C. Scott was appointed to the then Company’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer.
After the Merger, former holders of SGT’s common stock owned in excess of 50% of our fully-diluted shares of common stock, and as a result of certain other factors, including that all members of our executive management are members of SGT’s management, SGT is deemed to be the acquiring company and the Company was deemed to be the legal acquirer for accounting purposes, and the Merger was accounted for as a reverse merger and a recapitalization in accordance with GAAP. The consolidated financial statements of GrowLife and its subsidiaries reflect the historical activity of SGT, and the historical stockholders’ equity of SGT has been retroactively restated for the equivalent number of shares received in the exchange.
Restatement of Previously Issued Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements
In connection with the review of the Form 10-Q for the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2014, management determined that previously issued unaudited consolidated financial statements issued for the three months ended March 31, 2014 contained an error which was non-cash in nature. The Company reviewed the impact of this error and determined that the impact
of this error for the three months ended March 31, 2014 consolidated financial statements was material. On June 19, 2014, after review by the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm and legal counsel, the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors concluded that we should restate our unaudited interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2014 to reflect the correction of the previously identified error in the unaudited consolidated financial statements for this period.
The Company filed Form 10Q/A on June 27, 2014 and restated the consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2014, and the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2014 to reflect the correcting book entry described below. There was no impact to our actual cash balances as a result of these errors, and these errors do not change net cash flows from financing activities. There was no impact of this error on net cash flows from operating activities.
Transaction with CANX USA LLC
On November 19, 2013, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding the Company’s operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitate additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000. In connection with closing of the Agreement, CANX agreed to provide a commitment to provide funding in the amount of $1,300,000 for a GrowLife Infrastructure Funding Technology program transaction and provide additional funding of $1,000,000 under a 7% Convertible Note instrument. The Company initially owns a non-dilutive forty five percent (45%) share of OGI and the Company may acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Agreement.
In accordance with the Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby the Company delivered to CANX or its assignees a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of the Company common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share. This transaction was properly recorded in the Company’s 2013 audited consolidated financial statements.
In accordance with the Agreement, the Company was required to deliver to CANX or its assignees an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share. The warrant was earned by CANX upon completion of the Company’s increase in the number of authorized common shares from 1 billion to 3 billion shares. This increase in authorized shares was effective with the shareholder approval on February 7, 2014. This warrant was not booked at March 31, 2014.
After a detailed review of the facts, the Company concluded that the warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock was earned as of February 7, 2014, and should have been recorded in the consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2014.
The following tables present the restated items for the applicable date.
| For the Three Months Ended | | As Originally | | | Amount of | | | | |
| March 31, 2014 | | Presented | | | Restatement | | | As Restated | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Interest expense | | $ | (799,631 | ) | | $ | (33,700,000 | ) | | $ | (34,499,631 | ) |
| Net loss | | | (37,773,949 | ) | | | (33,700,000 | ) | | | (71,473,949 | ) |
| Net loss per share | | $ | (0.05 | ) | | $ | (0.04 | ) | | $ | (0.09 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | As Originally | | | Amount of | | | | | |
| March 31, 2014 | | Presented | | | Restatement | | | As Restated | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Additional paid-in capital | | $ | 35,690,082 | | | $ | 33,700,000 | | | $ | 69,390,082 | |
| Accumulated deficit | | | (62,174,653 | ) | | | (33,700,000 | ) | | | (95,874,653 | ) |
Suspension of Trading of the Company’s Securities
On April 10, 2014, the Company received notice from the SEC that trading of the Company’s common stock on the OTCBB was to be suspended from April 10, 2014 through April 24, 2014. The SEC issued its order pursuant to Section 12(k) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. According to the notice received by us from the SEC: “It appears to the Securities and Exchange Commission that the public interest and the protection of investors require a suspension of trading in the securities of GrowLife, Inc. because of concerns regarding the accuracy and adequacy of information in the marketplace and potentially manipulative transactions in GrowLife’s common stock.” The Company did not receive notice from the SEC that it was being formally investigated.
The suspension of trading eliminated the Company’s market makers, resulted in our trading on the grey sheets, resulted in legal proceedings and restricted the Company’s access to capital. On April 25, 2014, shares of18, 2016, the Company’s common stock resumed tradingunsolicited quotation on the “grey sheets” and are not formally quoted or listedOTC Bulletin Board after receiving clearance from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) on any stock exchange at this time.
SEC Charges of Manipulating Our Securities
On August 5, 2014,our Form 15c2-11. The Company is currently taking the SEC charged four promoters with tiesappropriate steps to uplist to the Pacific Northwest for manipulating the Company’s openOTCQB Exchange and resume priced quotations with market and conducted pre-arranged, manipulative matched orders and wash trades to create the illusion of an active market in these stocks. The promoters then sold their shares in coordination with aggressive promotional campaigns that urged investors to buy the stocks because the prices were on the verge of rising substantially. makers as soon as it is able.
On July 9, 2015, the SEC entered into settlements with two of the promoters. In connection with the settlement of their SEC action, the two men are liable for disgorgement of approximately $2.1 million and $306,000 in illicit profits, respectively. Earlier this year the two men were also sentenced to five and three years in prison, respectively, for their participation in the scheme.NOTE 2 –GOING CONCERN
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company incurred net losses of $86,626,099$7,694,684 and $21,380,138$5,688,845 for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively. Our net cash used in operating activities was $2,122,577$1,212,192 and $1,791,074$1,375,891 for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively.
The Company anticipates that it will record losses from operations for the foreseeable future. As of December 31, 2014,2016, our accumulated deficit was $111,026,803.$124,410,332. The Company has experienced recurring operating losses and negative operating cash flows since inception, and has financed its working capital requirements during this period primarily through the recurring issuance of convertible notes payable and advances from a related party. The audit report prepared by our independent registered public accounting firm relating to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 20142016 and 2015 filed with the SEC on September 30, 2015March 31, 2016 includes an explanatory paragraph expressing the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
Continuation of the Company as a going concern is dependent upon obtaining additional working capital. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if we are unable to continue as a going concern.
NOTE 3 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: ADOPTION OF ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Basis of Presentation -The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of these unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
Principles of Consolidation- The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. Inter-Company items and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company classifies highly liquid temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased as cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash balances at various financial institutions. Balances at US banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to $250,000. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant risk for cash on deposit.
Accounts Receivable and Revenue -Revenue is recognized on the sale of a product when the product is shipped, which is when the risk of loss transfers to our customers, the fee is fixed and determinable, and collection of the sale is reasonably assured. A product is not shipped without an order from the customer and the completion of credit acceptance procedures. The majority of our sales are cash or credit card; however, we occasionally extend terms to our customers. Accounts receivable are reviewed periodically for collectability.
Inventories -Inventories are recorded on a first in first out basis. Inventory consists of raw materials, purchased finished goods and components held for resale. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or market. The reserve for inventory was $50,000$20,000 as of December 31, 2016 and $90,725 at December 31, 2014 and 2013,2015, respectively.
Property and Equipment -Property and equipment are stated at cost. Assets acquired held under capital leases are initially recorded at the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments discounted at the implicit interest rate (35% for assets currently held under capital lease) or the fair value of the asset. Major improvements and betterments are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of five years. Assets acquired under capital lease are depreciated over the lesser of the useful life or the lease term. At the time of
retirement or other disposition of property and equipment, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated statements of operations.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets -The Company evaluates the carrying value of goodwill, intangible assets, and long-lived assets during the fourth quarter of each year and between annual evaluations if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such circumstances could include, but are not limited to (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, (4) continued losses from operations, (5) continued negative cash flows from operations, and (6) the suspension of trading of the Company’s securities. When evaluating whether goodwill is impaired, the Company compares the fair value of the reporting unit to which the goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. The fair value of the reporting unit is estimated using a combination of the income, or discounted cash flows, approach and the market approach, which utilizes comparable companies’ data. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then the amount of the impairment loss must be measured. The impairment loss would be calculated by comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill to its carrying amount. In calculating the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the other assets and liabilities of that unit based on their fair values. The excess of the fair value of a reporting unit over the amount assigned to its other assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill.
The Company amortizes the cost of other intangible assets over their estimated useful lives, which range up to ten years, unless such lives are deemed indefinite. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year for impairment, or more often if indicators warrant.
On March 10, 2017, the Audit Committee Equity Investments – reviewed the GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. operations and based on the capital intensive nature of the business and operating results determined that the goodwill value of $739,000 and intangible assets of $137,056 were impaired as of December 31, 2016. The Company classifies all highly-liquid investmentsrecorded an impairment of goodwill and intangible assets associated with stated maturitiesGrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. of greater than$876,056 as general and administrative expenses during the three months from the date of purchase and remaining maturities of less than one year as short-term investments. Investments with maturities beyond one year may be classified as short-term based on their highly liquid nature and because such investments are viewed as being available to support current operations. The Company classifies and accounts for short-term investments as available-for-sale and reflect realized gains and losses using the specific identification method. Changes in market value, if any, excluding other-than-temporary impairments, are reflected under stockholders’ deficit as unrealized gain/loss on related party investment.ended December 31, 2016.
Long Lived Assets – The Company reviews its long-lived assets for impairment annually or when changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets under certain circumstances are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value. Assets to be disposed of and assets not expected to provide any future service potential to the Company are recorded at the lower of carrying amount or fair value (less the projected cost associated with selling the asset). To the extent carrying values exceed fair values, an impairment loss is recognized in operating results.
Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments -ASC Topic 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurement and enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows:
Level 1 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
Level 3 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.
The carrying value of cash, accounts receivable, investment in a related party, accounts payables, accrued expenses, due to related party, notes payable, and convertible notes approximates their fair values due to their short-term maturities.
Derivative financial instruments -The Company evaluates all of its financial instruments to determine if such instruments are derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at its fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the consolidated statements of operations. For stock-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses a weighted average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to value the derivative instruments at inception and on subsequent valuation dates. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is evaluated at the end of each reporting period. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether or not net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within twelve months of the balance sheet date.
As of December 31, 2013, the Company had outstanding unsecured 7% convertible notes for $1,850,000 that the Company determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $9,324,000 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
As of December 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding unsecured 7% convertible notes for $500,000 that the Company determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $1,278,878 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
As of December 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding unsecured 6% convertible notes for $350,000 that the Company determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $822,037 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.
Sales Returns -We allow customers to return defective products when they meet certain established criteria as outlined in our sales terms and conditions. It is our practice to regularly review and revise, when deemed necessary, our estimates of sales returns, which are based primarily on actual historical return rates. We record estimated sales returns as reductions to sales, cost of goods sold, and accounts receivable and an increase to inventory. Returned products which are recorded as inventory are valued based upon the amount we expect to realize upon its subsequent disposition. As of December 31, 20142016 and 2013,December 31, 2015, there was no reserve for sales returns, which are minimal based upon our historical experience.
Shipping and Handling Fees and Cost - For the years December 31, 2014 and 2013, shipping and handling fees billed to customers totaled $128,351 and $242,779, respectively, and were included in revenue.
Stock Based Compensation - The Company has share-based compensation plans under which employees, consultants, suppliers and directors may be granted restricted stock, as well as options and warrants to purchase shares of Company common stock at the fair market value at the time of grant. Stock-based compensation cost to employees is measured by the Company at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, over the requisite service period under ASC 718. For options issued to employees, the Company recognizes stock compensation costs utilizing the fair value methodology over the related period of benefit. Grants of stock to non-employees and other parties are accounted for in accordance with the ASC 505.
Advertising Costs - Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are recorded in general and administrative expenses. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, advertising costs of $141,369 and $220,514, respectively, were included in general and administrative expenses.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share -Under the provisions of ASC 260, “Earnings per Share,” basic loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the periods presented. Diluted net loss per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that would then share in the income of the Company, subject to anti-dilution limitations. The common stock equivalents have not been included as they are anti-dilutive. As of December 31 2014,, 2016, there wereare also (i) stock optionsoption grants outstanding for the purchase of 40,720,00012,010,000 common shares at a $0.010 average strike price; (ii) warrants for the purchase of 565,000,000595 million common shares 209,061,571 at a $0.031 average exercise price; and (iii) 207,812,222 shares related to convertible debt and 6,000,000that can be converted at $0.0036 per share. In addition, we have an unknown number of common shares which we may have to issuebe issued under a settlement agreement which could potentially dilute future earnings per share.the TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP and Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. financing agreements. As of December 31, 2013,2015, there wereare also (i) stock optionsoption grants outstanding for the purchase of 40,851,18729.0 million common shares at a $0.028 average strike price; (ii) warrants for the purchase of 165,000,000565.0 million common shares and 160,626,377 at a $0.032 average exercise price; (iii) 243.6 million shares related to convertible debt which could potentially dilute future earningsthat can be converted at $0.007 per share.share; and (iv) 6.0 million shares that may be issued to a former executive related to a severance agreement. We issued $2 million in common stock or 115,141,048 shares of our common stock pursuant to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California.
Dividend Policy - The Company has never paid any cash dividends and intends, for the foreseeable future, to retain any future earnings for the development of our business. Our future dividend policy will be determined by the board of directors on the basis of various factors, including our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements and investment opportunities.
Use of Estimates -In preparing these unaudited interim consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and assumptions included in the Company’sour consolidated financial statements relate to the valuation of long-lived assets, estimates of sales returns, inventory reserves and accruals for potential liabilities, and valuation assumptions related to derivative liability, equity instruments and share based compensation.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
A variety of proposed or otherwise potential accounting standards are currently under study by standard setting organizations and various regulatory agencies. Due to the tentative and preliminary nature of those proposed standards, management has not determined whether implementation of such proposed standards would be material to ourthe Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, as part of its ongoing efforts to assist in the convergence of GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which is a new standard related to revenue recognition. Under the new standard, recognition of revenue occurs when a customer obtains control of promised services or goods in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. In addition, the standard requires disclosure of the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. The standard must be adopted using either a full retrospective approach for all periods presented in the period of adoption or a modified retrospective approach. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Deferral of the Effective Date, which defers the implementation of this new standard to be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted effective January 1, 2017. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Principal versus Agent Considerations, which clarifies the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations in the new revenue recognition standard pursuant to ASU 2014-09. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, and in May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients, which amend certain aspects of the new revenue recognition standard pursuant to ASU 2014-09. The Company currently evaluating which transition approach we will utilize and the impact of adopting this accounting standard on the Company’s financial statements.
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15—Presentation of Financial Statements—Going Concern (ASC Subtopic 205-40): “Disclosure2014-15, Disclosures of Uncertainties aboutAbout an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern”. Concern. The update requires managementnew standard provides guidance around management’s responsibility to assess a company’sevaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures in certain circumstances. All entities are required to apply thedisclosures. The new requirements in annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. As such, GrowLife, Inc. is required to adopt these provisions for the annual period
ending December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of FASB ASU 2014-15 but does not expect the adoption thereof to have a material effect on GrowLife’s financial statements.
In May 2014, FASB issued ASU 2014-09—Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): “Section A—Summary and Amendments That Create Revenue from Contracts with Customers, (Topic 606) and Other Assets and Deferred Costs—Contracts with Customers (Subtopic 340-40), Section B—Conforming Amendments to Other Topics and Subtopics in the Codification and Status Tables, Section C—Background Information and Basis for Conclusions”. The guidance in this update affects any entity that enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services and supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is not permitted. As such, GrowLife, Inc. is required to adopt these provisions as of December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of FASB ASU 2014-09 but does not expect the adoption thereof to have a material effect on GrowLife’s financial statements.
In July 2013, FASB issued ASU 2013-11—Income Taxes (ASC Topic 740): “Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)”. The amendments in this update provide explicit guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists at the reporting date. The updatestandard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2013.2016. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of FASB ASU 2013-11 didCompany does not expect that this guidance will have a material effectimpact on GrowLife’sits financial statements.
New Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adoptedposition, results of operations or cash flows.
In FebruaryJanuary 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments2015-01, Income Statement—Extraordinary and Unusual Items. The objective of this Update is to simplify the Consolidation Analysis (“ASU 2015-02”). ASU 2015-02 affects reporting entitiesincome statement presentation requirements in Subtopic 225-20 by eliminating the concept of extraordinary items. Extraordinary items are events and transactions that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. ASU 2015-02distinguished by their unusual nature and by the infrequency of their occurrence. Eliminating the extraordinary classification simplifies income statement presentation by altogether removing the concept of extraordinary items from consideration. This Accounting Standards Update is the final version of Proposed Accounting Standards Update 2014-220—Income Statement—Extraordinary Items (Subtopic 225-20), which has been deleted. The amendments in this Update are effective for us on January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Companyfiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. the Company’s does not believe thatexpect this pronouncement willupdate to have ana material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015,February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2015-03”2016-02”). The amendments instandard amends the existing accounting standards for lease accounting, including requiring lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets and making targeted changes to lessor accounting. ASU 2015-03 require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability2016-02 will be presentedeffective beginning in the balance sheet asfirst quarter of 2019. Early adoption of ASU 2016-02 is permitted. The new leases standard requires a direct deduction frommodified retrospective transition approach for all leases existing at, or entered into after, the carrying amountdate of that debt liability, consistentinitial application, with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in ASU 2015-03. ASU 2015-03 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted.an option to use certain transition relief. The Company is currently evaluating the potential changes from thisimpact of adopting ASU 2016-02 on the Company’s financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. This ASU makes targeted amendments to the Company’s future financial reportingaccounting for employee share-based payments. This guidance is to be applied using various transition methods such as full retrospective, modified retrospective, and disclosures.
NOTE 4 – PURCHASE – ROCKY MOUNTAIN HYDROPONICSprospective based on the criteria for the specific amendments as outlined in the guidance. The guidance is effective for annual periods, and EVERGREEN GARDEN CENTER
On June 7, 2013, GrowLife Hydroponics completed the purchase of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company (“RMC”), and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC, a Maine limited liability company (“EGC”). The effective date of the purchase was June 7, 2013. The purchase includedinterim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted, as long as all of the assets and liabilities ofamendments are adopted in the RMH and EGC Companies, and their retail hydroponics stores, which are located in Vail and Boulder, Colorado and Portland, Maine. The Company purchased RMC and EGC from Rob Hunt, who was appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors and was appointed President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc.
The Company paid the former owners of the RMH and EGC Companies $550,000 in cash, $800,000 in 12% Secured Convertible Notes, and $275,000 (7,857,141 shares at $0.035/share) in shares of the Company’s common stock.
The purchase price was allocated to specific identifiable tangible and intangible assets at their fair value at the date of the purchase in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 805, “Business Combinations”, as follows:
| Allocation | | $ | |
| Assets | | $ | 907,614 | |
| Intangible assets | | | 366,000 | |
| Goodwill | | | 739,000 | |
| Total | | | 2,012,614 | |
| Less fair value of liabilities | | | (387,614 | ) |
| Purchase price | | $ | 1,625,000 | |
same period. The Company is amortizingcurrently evaluating the $366,000impact of intangibleadopting ASU 2016-09 on the Company’s financial statements.
In June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. The standard significantly changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that aren’t measured at fair value through net income. The standard will replace today’s “incurred loss” approach with an “expected loss” model for instruments measured at amortized cost. For available-for-sale debt securities, entities will be required to record allowances rather than reduce the carrying amount, as they do today under the other-than-temporary impairment model. It also simplifies the accounting model for purchased credit-impaired debt securities and loans. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods therein. Early adoption is permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods therein. This ASU is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. Stakeholders indicated that there is diversity in practice in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows under Topic 230, Statement of Cash Flows, and other Topics. This Accounting Standards Update addresses the following eight specific cash flow issues: Debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of $6,100 per month over 5the borrowing; contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (COLIs) (including bank-owned life insurance policies (BOLIs)); distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. The amendments in this Update apply to all entities, including both business entities and not-for-profit entities that are required to present a statement of cash flows under Topic 230.This Update is the final version of Proposed Accounting Standards Update EITF-15F—Statement of Cash Flows—Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (Topic 230), which has been deleted. The amendments in this Update are effective for public business entities for fiscal years withbeginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted as all of the Company recording $73,200 and $42,700 of non-cash amortization expense relatedamendments are adopted in the same period. This ASU is not expected to these intangible assets duringhave a material impact on the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The Company consolidated the results from operations from June 7, 2013. The following are unaudited pro-forma results of operations as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2013 for the period ending June 7, 2013:Company’s financial statements.
| | | Six Months Ended June 30, 2013, | |
| | | | | | RMH/ EGC | | | Combined | |
| | | As Reported | | | As Reported | | | Pro-Forma | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Net revenue | | $ | 1,625,625 | | | $ | 1,635,143 | | | $ | 3,260,768 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cost of goods sold | | | 1,196,277 | | | | 1,127,113 | | | | 2,323,390 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Gross profit | | | 429,348 | | | | 508,030 | | | | 937,378 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| General and administrative | | | 2,007,464 | | | | 475,839 | | | | 2,483,303 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Loss from operations | | | (1,578,116 | ) | | | 32,191 | | | | (1,545,925 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Other income (expense): | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Warrant expense | | | (250,000 | ) | | | - | | | | (250,000 | ) |
| Loss on extinguishment of debt | | | (2,750 | ) | | | - | | | | (2,750 | ) |
| Change in fair value of derivative | | | (169,753 | ) | | | - | | | | (169,753 | ) |
| Interest expense, net | | | (799,310 | ) | | | - | | | | (799,310 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net loss | | $ | (2,799,929 | ) | | $ | 32,191 | | | $ | (2,767,738 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net loss per share - (basic and diluted) | | $ | (0.01 | ) | | $ | 0.00 | | | $ | (0.01 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Weighted average shares outstanding - (basic and diluted) | | | 500,801,583 | | | | 6,815,310 | | | | 507,616,893 | |
NOTE 54 – TRANSACTIONS WITH CANX USA, LLC AND LOGIC WORKS LLC
Transactions with CANX, LLC and Logic Works LLC
On July 10, 2014, the Company closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company. The Agreements require the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to the Company’s grey sheet trading status and other issues, the Company has not filed the registration statement.
Previously,November 19, 2013, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Agreement with CANX, USA LLC, a Nevada limited liability company. Under the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX formed Organic Growth International, LLC (“OGI”), a Nevada limited liability company, for the purpose of expanding the Company’s operations in its current retail hydroponic businesses and in other synergistic business verticals and facilitating additional funding for commercially financeable transactions of up to $40,000,000. In connection with the closing of the Agreement, CANX agreed to provide a commitment for funding in the amount of $1,300,000 for a GrowLife Infrastructure Funding Technology program transaction and provided additional funding under a 7% Convertible Note instrument for $1,000,000, including $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III Investments LLC, entities that are unaffiliated with CANX and operate as separate legal entities.
The Company initially owned a non-dilutive forty five percent (45%)45% share of OGI and the Company maycould acquire a controlling share of OGI as provided in the Joint Venture Agreement. In accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, the Company and CANX entered into a Warrant Agreement whereby the Company delivered to CANX a warrant to purchase 140,000,000 shares of the Company common stock that is convertible at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share.share, subject to adjustment as provided in the warrant. The five-year warrant expires November 18, 2018. Also, in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement, on February 7, 2014 the Company issued an additional warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of the Company’sour common stock that is convertible at a maximum strike price of $0.033 per share, subject to adjustment as provided in the warrant. The five-year warrant expires February 6, 2019.
GrowLife received the $1 million as a convertible note in December 2013, received the $1.3 million commitment but not executed and by January 2014 OGI had Letters of Intent with four investment and acquisition transactions valued at $96 million. Before the deals could close, the SEC put a trading halt on February 7, 2014.our stock on April 10, 2014, which resulted in the withdrawal of all transactions. The business disruption from the trading halt and the resulting class action and derivative lawsuits ceased further investments with the OGI joint venture. The Convertible Note was converted into GrowLife, Inc. common stock as of the year ended December 31, 2016.
On AprilJuly 10, 2014, as a result of the suspension in the trading of the Company’s securities, the Company went into default on its 7% Convertible Notes Payable for $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III. As a result, the Company accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 24% per annum. Furthermore, as a result of being in default on these notes, the Holders could have, at their sole discretion, called these notes.
Waiver and Modification Agreement
The Company entered intoclosed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works LLC whereby the 7% Convertible Note with Logic Works dated December 20, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) a waiver of the default under the 7%
Convertible Note; (ii) a conversion price which is the lesser of (A) $0.025 or (B) twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable Conversion Date on which the Holder elects to convert all or part of this Note; (iii) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014; and (iv) continuing interest of 24% per annum. China West III converted its Note into common stock on June 4, 2014. Due to the Company’s grey sheet trading status and other issues, the Company has not filed the registration statement.
Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement
The Company entered into an Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, dated July 1, 2014Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX wherebyand Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company.
The Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement with CANX modified the Joint Venture Agreement dated November 19, 2013 was modified to provide for (i) up to $12,000,000 in conditional financing subject to review by GrowLife and approval by OGI for business growth development opportunities in the legal cannabis industry for up to sixnine months, subject to extension; (ii) up to $10,000,000 in working capital loans, with each loaningloan requiring approval in advance by CANX; (iii) confirmed that the five year warrants, subject to extension,adjustment, at $0.033 per share for the purchase of 140,000,000 and 100,000,000 were fully earned and were not considered compensation for tax purposes by the Company; (iv) granted CANX five year warrants, subject to extension,adjustment, to purchase 300,000,000 shares of common stock at the fair market price of $0.033 per share as determined by an independent appraisal; (v) warrants as defined in the Agreement related to the achievement of OGI milestones; and (vi) a four year term, subject to adjustment and (vi) the filing of a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014. Due to the Company’s grey sheet trading status and other issues, the Company has not filed the registration statement.adjustment.
Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility
The Company entered into a Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works whereby Logic Works agreed to provide up to $500,000 in funding. Each funding requiresrequired approval in advance by Logic Works, provides forprovided interest at 6% with a default interest of 24% per annum and requires repayment by June 26, 2016. The Note is convertible into common stock of the Company at the lesser of $0.0070 or (B) twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which Logic Works elects to convert all or part of this 6% Convertible Note, subject to adjustment as provided in the Note. The 6% Convertible Note is collateralized by the assets of the Company. The Company also has agreed to file a registration statementAs of March 31, 2017, the outstanding balance on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and have the registration statement declared effective within ninety days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014. Due to the Company’s grey sheet trading status and other issues, the Company has not filed the registration statement.
On July 10, 2014, the Company closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company. As of September 30, 2014, the Company has borrowed $350,000 under the Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works.was $39,251.
OGI was incorporated on January 7, 2014 in the State of Nevada and had no business activities as of December 31, 2014.2016.
NOTE 6 – TERMINATED AGREEMENTS WITH WISE PHOENIX, LLC AND AJOA HOLDINGS, LLC RELATED TO CEN BIOTECH, INC. AND R.X.B.N. INC.
On January 24, 2014, the Company executed an Interest Purchase Agreement (“IPA”) whereby Wise Phoenix LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“WP”), and AJOA Holdings, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“AJOA”) (WP and AJOA may be collective referred to as “Sellers”), sold to OGI, 25% of the fully diluted outstanding equity of CEN Biotech, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of Canada (“CEN”). The Company was obligated to issue shares of common stock to the Sellers. CEN, under the authority and inspection of the Canadian authorities, has been authorized to build a medical marijuana growing facility in Canada, which could produce as much as 1.3 million pounds of dried marijuana annually.
On January 24, 2014, the Company entered into a Shareholder Agreement with the shareholders of CEN. The Shareholder Agreement contemplated OGI’s assignment of the 25% equity interest in CEN to the Company and therefore notes that the Company has a 25% interest. The Company, AJOA, WP, Creative Edge Nutrition, Inc., and one individual, collectively representing 93% percent ownership of CEN, have signed the Shareholder Agreement as of January 24, 2014, as well as CEN itself. Another eight individuals representing the remaining 7% were expected to sign the Shareholder Agreement.
On January 24, 2014, OGI entered into a Master Equipment, Procurement and Services Agreement (“RXNB MEPS”) with RXNB dictating that the legal cannabis growing needs of WP, AJOA, and RXNB shall generally be supplied by the Company, so long as specification, price, and quality are substantially equal.
On April 10, 2014, the Company received notice from both R.X.N.B., Inc. and CEN Biotech, Inc. that both companies were rescinding and/or voiding their respective Interest Purchase Agreements with the Company because the SEC had suspended the
Company’s trading in securities due to potential issues of accuracy and adequacy of information in the marketplace. There were no penalties related to the rescinding of the Agreements.
NOTE 75 – INVENTORY
Inventory as of December 31, 20142016 and December 31, 20132015 consists of the following:
| | | December 31, 2014 | | | December 31, 2013 | | |
| | | (Audited) | | | (Audited) | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Raw materials | | $ | - | | | $ | 94,681 | | |
| Finished goods | | | 923,565 | | | | 1,028,037 | | $438,453 | $418,439 |
| Inventory in transit | | | - | | | | 221,728 | | |
| Inventory reserve | | | (40,215 | ) | | | (90,725 | ) | (20,000) |
| Total | | $ | 883,350 | | | $ | 1,253,721 | | $418,453 | $398,439 |
Finished goods inventory relates to product at the Company’s retail stores, which is product purchased from distributors, and in some cases directly from the manufacturer, and resold at our stores. Inventory in transit relates to product purchased by the Company but which had not been received as of December 31, 2014.
The Company reviews its inventory on a periodic basis to identify products that are slow moving and/or obsolete, and if such products are identified, the Company records the appropriate inventory impairment charge at such time.
NOTE 86 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENTCONVERTIBLE NOTES PAYABLE, NET
Property and equipmentConvertible notes payable as of December 31, 2016 consisted of the following:
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| 6% Secured convertible note (2014) | $330,295 | $3,692 | $- | $333,987 |
| 7% Convertible note ($850,000) | 250,000 | 164,137 | - | 414,137 |
| Replacement debenture with TCA ($2,830,210) | 1,468,009 | 18,350 | - | 1,486,359 |
| 10% OID Convertible Promissory Note with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. | 683,042 | 2,670 | (121,395) | 564,317 |
| | $2,731,346 | $188,849 | $(121,395) | $2,798,800 |
Convertible notes payable as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consists2015 consisted of the following:
| | | December 31, | | | December 31, | |
| | | 2014 | | | 2013 | |
| | | (Audited) | | | (Audited) | |
| | | | | | | |
| Machines and equipment | | $ | 63,172 | | | $ | 63,172 | |
| Furniture and fixtures | | | 49,787 | | | | 49,787 | |
| Computer equipment | | | 52,304 | | | | 52,304 | |
| Leasehold improvements | | | 56,965 | | | | 53,040 | |
| Total property and equipment | | | 222,228 | | | | 218,303 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | | | (198,186 | ) | | | (164,545 | ) |
| Net property and equipment | | $ | 24,042 | | | $ | 53,758 | |
Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation, were $24,042 and $53,758 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accumulated depreciation was $198,186 and $164,545 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Total depreciation expense was $33,641 and $22,229 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. All equipment is used for selling, general and administrative purposes and accordingly all depreciation is classified in selling, general and administrative expenses.| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| 6% Senior secured convertible notes (2012) | $413,680 | $172,494 | $- | $586,174 |
| 6% Secured convertible note (2014) | 350,000 | 30,641 | (83,924) | 296,717 |
| 7% Convertible note ($850,000) | 250,000 | 104,137 | - | 354,137 |
| 7% Convertible note ($1,000,000) | 250,000 | 134,469 | - | 384,469 |
| 18% Senior secured redeemable convertible debenture ($1,150,000) | 1,150,000 | 68,510 | (552,139) | 666,371 |
| | $2,413,680 | $510,251 | $(636,063) | $2,287,868 |
NOTE 9 – INVESTMENT IN VAPE HOLDINGS, INC.
In May 2013, the Company made an investment in the amountSeveral of $1,160 in Vape Holdings, Inc., a Nevada corporation, and received 200,428 shares.
Sterling C. Scott, the Company’s then Chief Executive Officer, also owned 257,320 sharesconvertible promissory notes remain outstanding beyond their respective maturity dates. This may trigger an event of Vape’sdefault under the respective agreements. The Company is working with these noteholders to convert their notes into common stock. Furthermore, the former President of GrowLife, Inc., Kyle Tracey, was the Chief Executive Officer of Vape.stock and intends to resolve these outstanding issues as soon as practicable. As a result, the Company deemed Vape to beaccrued interest on these notes at the default rates. Furthermore, as a related party and thereforeresult of being in default on these notes, the Holders could, at their sole discretion, call these notes. Although no such action has recordedbeen taken by the Company’s investment in VapeHolders, the Company classified these notes as an “Investment in a related party” on its balance sheet.
The value of the Company’s investment in Vapecurrent liability as of December 31, 20132016 and 2015.
6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable (2012)
On September 28, 2012, the Company entered into an Amendment and Exchange Agreement with investors, including Sterling Scott, our then CEO. The Exchange Agreement provided for the issuance of new 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes that replaced the 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes that were previously issued during 2012. The 6% Notes accrued interest at the rate of 6% per annum and had a maturity date of April 15, 2015. No cash payments were required; however, accrued interest was $5.60due at maturity. In the event of a default the investors may declare the entire principal and accrued interest to be due and payable. Default interest accrued at the rate of 12% per share, or $1,122,397.annum. The 6% Notes were secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and were convertible into common stock at the rate of $0.007 per share. The Company determined that the conversion feature was a beneficial conversion feature.
As of September 10, 2014, the outstanding principal balance on Mr. Scott’s 6% convertible note was $413,680 and accrued interest were sold 200,428 sharesto two parties not related to us. On April 27, 2015, the Company entered into Amendment One of Vape’s common stock duringthe Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note, which increased the interest rate to 12% effective April 8, 2014 and extended the maturity to September 15, 2015.
On July 9, 2015, the two investors each entered into Amendment Two of the Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note which provide for an increase in the interest rate from 6% to 10% and the default interest rate from 12% to 20% on the 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes for so long as the Company remains in technical default on said notes due to its delisting from its Primary Trading Market April 2014. The Company further agreed that said 20% default interest will be applied to the date of default on April 10, 2014 and continuing through the date of conversion.
During the year ended December 31, 2014 for net proceeds2015, the Company recorded interest expense of $186,791 which was recorded as “other income” in$26,964 and $20,486 of non-cash interest expense related to the statementamortization of operations.the debt discount associated with these 6% convertible notes, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the outstanding principal on these 6% convertible notes was $413,680, accrued interest was $172,494, and unamortized debt discount was $0, which results in a net amount of $586,174.
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded interest expense of $105,016 related to these 6% convertible notes. Two investors converted principal and interest of $413,680 and $67,418, respectively, into shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding principal and interest on these 6% convertible notes was $0.
6% Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility (2014)
The Company entered into a Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works whereby Logic Works agreed to provide up to $500,000 in funding. Each funding requires approval in advance by Logic Works, provided for interest at 6% with a default interest of 24% per annum and requires repayment by June 26, 2016. The Note is convertible into common stock of the Company at the lesser of $0.007 or (B) twenty percent (20%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily VWAPs occurring during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which Logic Works elects to convert all or part of this 6% Convertible Note, subject to adjustment as provided in the Note.
On July 10, 2014, the Company closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works, a lender and shareholder of the Company.
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded a $1,122,397 loss ininterest expense of $21,000 and $177,384 of non-cash interest expense related to the valueamortization of its investment in Vape by decreasing its “Investmentthe debt discount associated with these 6% convertible notes, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the Company has borrowed $350,000 under the Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility, accrued interest was $30,641 and the unamortized debt discount was $83,924, which results in a net amount of $296,717.
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded interest expense of $20,837 and $83,924 of non-cash interest expense related party” balance sheet account while also recording a corresponding decrease to “Unrealized loss on investment in a related party” in the Stockholders’ deficit sectionamortization of the debt discount associated with this 6% convertible note, respectively. Logic Works converted interest of $47,386 into shares of the Company’s balance sheet.common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0036.
As of December 31, 2016, the Company has borrowed $330,295 under the Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility, accrued interest was $3,692 and the unamortized debt discount was $0, which results in a net amount of $333,987.
7% Convertible Notes Payable
On October 11, 2013, the Company issued 7% Convertible Notes in the aggregate amount of $850,000 to investors, including $250,000 to Forglen LLC. The Note was due September 30, 2015. All other Notes were converted in 2014. On July 14, 2014, the Board of Directors approved a Settlement Agreement and Waiver of Default dated June 19, 2014 with Forglen related to the 7% Convertible Note. The Company cancelled the April 9, 2014 conversion as a result of the SEC suspension in the trading of the Company’s securities and Forglen has $250,000 of principal and interest outstanding on its note payable as of December 31, 2015 and September 30, 2016. The current annual rate of interest is 24% per annum. The conversion price was $0.007 per share. The Company determined that the conversion feature was a beneficial conversion feature.
On December 20, 2013, the Company issued 7% Convertible Notes for $1,000,000, including $500,000 from Logic Works LLC. The principal balance due to Logic Works of $250,000 was due September 30, 2015. The current annual rate of interest is 24% per annum. The conversion price was $0.007 per share. The Company determined that the conversion feature was a beneficial conversion feature.
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded interest expense of $105,041 and $174,252 of non-cash interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with these 7% convertible notes, respectively. As of December 31, 2015, the outstanding principal on these 7% convertible notes was $500,000, accrued interest was $238,606, and unamortized debt discount was $0, which results in a net amount of $738,606.
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded interest expense of $0 related to these 7% convertible notes. Logic Works converted principal of $250,000 and interest of $75,149 and interest of into shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.004 to $0.007. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding principal on these 7% convertible notes was $250,000, accrued interest was $164,137, and unamortized debt discount was $0, which results in a net amount of $414,137.
NOTE 10 – INTANGIBLE ASSETSFunding from TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”)
Intangible assetsThe First TCA SPA. On July 9, 2015, the Company closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP (“TCA”), an accredited investor, whereby the Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 could be purchased in additional closings. The closing of the transaction (the “First TCA SPA”) occurred on July 9, 2015. Effective as of December 31, 2014 consistedMay 4, 2016, the Company and TCA entered into a First Amendment to the First TCA SPA whereby the parties agreed to amend the terms of the following: First TCA SPA in exchange for TCA’s forbearance of existing defaults by the Company.
The Second TCA SPA. On August 6, 2015, the Company closed a second Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA whereby the Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior secured convertible redeemable debenture and the Company agreed to issue and sell to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from the Company up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a committed equity facility. The closing of the transaction (the “Second TCA SPA”) occurred on August 6, 2015. On April 11, 2016, the Company agreed with TCA to mutually terminate the Second TCA SPA.
Amendment to the First TCA SPA. On October 27, 2015, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA whereby the Company agreed to sell, and TCA agreed to purchase $350,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures. This was an amendment to the First TCA SPA (the “Amendment to the First TCA SPA”.) As of October 27, 2015, the Company sold $1,050,000 in Debentures to TCA and up to $1,950,000 in Debentures remained for sale by the Company. The closing of the Amendment to the First TCA SPA occurred on October 27, 2015. In addition, TCA has advanced the Company an additional $100,000 for a total of $1,150.000.
Issuance of Preferred Stock to TCA. Also, on October 21, 2015 the Company issued 150,000 Series B Preferred Stock at a stated value equal to $10.00 per share to TCA. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into common stock by dividing the stated value of the shares being converted by 100% of the average of the five (5) lowest closing bid prices for the common stock during the ten (10) consecutive trading days immediately preceding the conversion date as quoted by Bloomberg, LP. On October 21, 2015, we also issued 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock at $0.0001 par value per share to TCA. The Series C Preferred Stock is not convertible into our common stock. In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated TCA Transaction Documents, TCA can exercise voting control over our common stock with their Series C Preferred Stock voting rights.
TCA’s Forbearance. Due to the Company’s default on its repayment obligations under the TCA SPA’s and related documents, the parties agreed to restructure the SPA’s whereby TCA agreed to forbear from enforcement of our defaults and to restructure a payment schedule for repayment of debt under the SPAs. The Company defaulted because our operating results were not as expected and the Company was unable to generate sufficient revenue through its business operations to serve the TCA debt. Specifically, the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement made the following material modifications to the existing SPA’s:
●
All unpaid debentures were modified as described in more detail below.
| Intangible Assets: | | | Cost | | | Accumulated Amortization | | | Net Book Value | |
| RMH/EGC acquisition- customer contracts | 5 years | | $ | 366,000 | | | $ | (115,900 | ) | | $ | 250,100 | |
| Greners acquisition- customer contracts | 5 years | | | 230,000 | | | | (129,948 | ) | | | 100,052 | |
| Phototron acquisition- customer contracts | 5 years | | | 215,000 | | | | (215,000 | ) | | | - | |
| Soja, Inc. (Urban Garden Supply) acquisition- customer contracts | 5 years | | | 60,000 | | | | (60,000 | ) | | | - | |
| Trademarks | | | | 3,600 | | | | - | | | | 3,600 | |
| Total intangible assets | | | $ | 874,600 | | | $ | (520,848 | ) | | $ | 353,752 | |
Total amortization expense●
Payments on the debentures shall be made by (i) debt purchase agreement(s) to be entered into by TCA, (ii) through proceeds raised from the transaction(s) with Chicago Venture; or (iii) by the Company directly.
●
The due date of the debentures was $106,548extended to April 28, 2018.
●
TCA agreed that it shall not enforce and $108,966shall forbear from pursuing enforcement of any existing defaults by us unless and until a future Company default occurs.
In furtherance of TCA’s forbearance, effective as of May 4, 2016, the Company issued Second Replacement Debenture A in the principal amount of $150,000 and Second Replacement Debenture B in the principal amount of $2,681,210 (collectively, the “Second Replacement Debentures”).
Per the First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Second Replacement Debentures were combined, and apportioned into two separate replacement debentures. The Second Replacement Debentures were intended to act in substitution for and to supersede the debentures in their entirety. It was the intent of the Company and TCA that while the Second Replacement Debentures replace and supersede the debentures, in their entirety, they were not in payment or satisfaction of the debentures, but rather were the substitute of one evidence of debt for another without any intent to extinguish the old debt. As of September 30, 2016, the maximum number of shares subject to conversion under the Second Replacement Debentures is19,401,389. This is an approximation. The estimation of the maximum number of shares issuable upon the conversion of the Second Replacement Debentures was calculated using an estimated average price of $0.0036 per share.
The Second Replacement Debentures contemplate TCA entering into debt purchase agreement(s) with third parties whereby TCA may, at its election, sever, split, divide or apportion the Second Replacement Debentures to accomplish the repayment of the balance owed to TCA by Company. The Second Replacement Debentures are convertible at 85% of the lowest daily volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s common stock during the five (5) business days immediately prior to a conversion date.
In connection with the above agreements, the parties acknowledged and agreed that certain advisory fees previously paid to TCA as provided in the SPAs in the amount of $1,500.000 have been added and included within the principal balance of the Second Replacement Debentures. The advisory fees related to financial, merger and acquisition and regulatory services provided to the Company. The conversion price discount on the Second Replacement Debentures will not apply to the advisory fees added to the Second Replacement Debentures. TCA also agreed to surrender its Series B Preferred Stock in exchange for the years$1,500,000 being added to the Second Replacement Debenture.
As more particularly described below, the Company remains in debt to TCA for the principal amount of $1,500,000. The remaining $1,400,000 of principal debt was assigned to Old Main Capital, LLC (see discussion immediately below.) The Company intends to use the funds generated from the Chicago Venture transaction to fuel its business operations and business plans which, in turn, will presumably generate revenues sufficient to avoid another default in the remaining TCA obligations. If the Company is unable to raise sufficient funds through the Chicago Venture transaction and/or generate sales sufficient to service the remaining TCA debt then the Company will be unable to avoid another default. Failure to operate in accordance with the various agreements with TCA could result in the cancellation of these agreements, result in foreclosure on the Company’s assets in an event of default which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
At the date of the TCA debt restructuring the remaining unamortized discount was expensed to interest in the amount of $482,112 and the Company recognized a loss on restructuring of $ 279,897.
As of December 31, 2016, the Company is indebted to TCA under the First and Second Replacement Debentures in the amount of $1,468,009, accrued interest was $18,350 and the unamortized debt discount was $0, which results in a net amount of $1,486,359.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Old Main converted principal and accrued interest of $757,208 into 144,650,951 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0052.
During the year ended December 31, 20142016, Chicago Venture converted principal and 2013, respectively.accrued interest of $1,403,599 into 264,672,323 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0053.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, the Company recorded the unamortized debt discount reversal of $750,339 related to the TCA financing as a reduction in additional paid in capital because TCA did not convert its debt but assigned its debentures to others.
The Company has recorded a loss on these transactions in the amount of $2,889,540. The loss on debt conversions related to the conversion of our notes payable at prices below the market price.
On January 10, 2017, Chicago Venture, at the Company’s instruction, remitted funds of $1,495,901 to TCA in order to satisfy all debts to TCA. On or around January 11, 2017, the Company was notified by TCA that $13,540 were due to TCA in order for TCA to release its security interest in the Company’s assets. On February 1, 2017, TCA notified the Company that all funds were received and TCA would release its security interest in Company’s assets. TCA has confirmed that it is paid in full and the Company is not aware of any other obligations that the Company has as to TCA. The funds received under the Chicago Venture Agreements and previous Chicago Venture Agreements were used to pay-off TCA.
TCA Assignment of Debt to Old Main Capital, LLC
On June 9, 2016, the Company closed a Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements (the “Old Main Transaction Documents”) with TCA and Old Main Capital, LLC (“Old Main”) whereby TCA agreed to sell and Old Main agreed to purchase in multiple tranches $1,400,000 in senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures (the “Assigned Debt”) (the “Old Main Transaction”). The Assigned Debt was our debt incurred in the TCA financing transactions that closed in 2015. We were required to execute the Old Main Transaction Documents as the Company is the “borrower” on the Assigned Debt.
Debt Purchase Agreement.As set forth above, the Company entered into the Debt Purchase Agreement on June 9, 2015 with TCA and Old Main whereby Old Main agreed to purchase, in tranches, $1,400,000 of debt previously held by TCA. The Company executed the Debt Purchase Agreement as it was the “borrower” under the Assigned Debt and was required to make certain representations and warranties regarding the Assigned Debt. The Assigned Debt is represented by a new “10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note” entered into by and between Old Main and the Company (more particularly described below.)
Exchange Agreement.In conjunction with the Debt Purchase Agreement, on June 9, 2016, the Company entered into an Exchange Agreement whereby we agreed to exchange, in tranches, the Assigned Debt, as well as any amendments thereto, with a 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note (the “Note”)having a principal balance of $1,400,000. The closing dates for the exchanges, scheduled to occur in tranches, are set forth in Schedule 1 attached to the Exchange Agreement.
10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note.Pursuant to the Exchange Agreement, the Company entered into a 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note dated June 9, 2016 with Old Main whereby the Company agreed to be indebted to Old Main for the Assigned Debt. The Company promised to pay Old Main, by no later than the maturity date of June 9, 2017 the outstanding principal of the Assigned Debt together with interest on the outstanding principal amount under the Note, at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum simple interest.
At any time after June 9, 2016, and while the Note is still outstanding and at the sole option of Old Main, Old Main may convert all or any portion of the outstanding principal, accrued and unpaid interest redemption premium and any other sums due and payable hereunder or under any of the other Transaction Documents into shares of our Common Stock at a price equal to the lower of: (i) sixty-five percent (65%) of the lowest traded price of the Company’s Common Stock during the thirty (30) trading days prior to the Conversion Date; or (ii) sixty-five percent (65%) of the lowest traded price of the Common Stock in the thirty (30) Trading Days prior to the Closing Date.
Option Agreement.In connection with the Old Main Transaction Documents, TCA and Old Main entered into an Option Agreement dated June 8, 2016 whereby TCA agreed to grant Old Main an option to purchase the Assigned Debt, or any portion thereof, under the terms and conditions of the Debt Purchase Agreement. In consideration, Old Main agreed to pay the Option Payment as more particularly described in the Option Agreement.
On August 24, 2016, TCA terminated its Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements with Old Main. The specific termination date is September 25, 2016, and Old Main had a right to purchase an additional $300,000 in debt from TCA.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Old Main converted principal and accrued interest of $757,208 into 144,650,951 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0052.
Funding from Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. (“Chicago Venture”)
Securities Purchase Agreement with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. As of April 4, 2016, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement and Convertible Promissory Note (the “Chicago Venture Note”) with Chicago Venture, whereby we agreed to sell, and Chicago Venture agreed to purchase an unsecured convertible promissory note in the original principal amount of $2,755,000. In connection with the transaction, the Company received $350,000 in cash as well as a series of twelve Secured Investor Notes for a total Purchase Price of $2,500,000. The Note carries an Original Issue Discount (“OID”) of $250,000 and we agreed to pay $5,000 to cover Purchaser’s legal fees, accounting costs and other transaction expenses.
The fair valueSecured Investor Notes are payable (i) $50,000 upon filing of a Registration Statement on Form S-1; (ii) $100,000 upon effectiveness of the assets acquired detailedRegistration Statement; and (iii) up to $200,000 per month over the 10 months following effectiveness at our sole discretion, subject to certain conditions. The Company filed the Registration Statement within forty-five (45) days of the Closing and agreed to register shares of our common stock for the benefit of Chicago Venture in exchange for the payments under the Secured Investor Notes.
Chicago Venture has the option to convert the Note at 65% of the average of the three (3) lowest volume weighted average prices in the twenty (20) Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion (the “Conversion Price”). However, in no event will the Conversion Price be less than $0.02 or greater than $0.09. In addition, beginning on the date that is the earlier of six (6) months or five (5) days after the Registration Statement becomes effective, and on the same day of each month thereafter, the Company will re-pay the Note in monthly installments in cash, or, subject to certain Equity Conditions, in the Company’s common stock at 65% of the average of the three (3) lowest volume weighted average prices in the twenty (20) Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion (the “Installment Conversion Price”).
As discussed above, estimatedonce effective, the Company has the discretion to require Chicago Venture to sell to us up to $200,000 per month over the next 10 months on the above terms. The Company would then have the option to issue shares registered under this Registration Statement to Chicago Venture. Through this prospectus, the selling stockholder may offer to the public for resale shares of the Company’s common stock that we may issue to Chicago Venture pursuant to the Chicago Venture Note.
For a period of no more than 36 months from the effective date of the Registration Statement, we may, from time to time, at the Company’s sole discretion, and subject to certain conditions that we must satisfy, draw down funds under the Chicago Venture Note.
The Company’s ability to require Chicago Venture to fund the Chicago Venture Note is at its discretion, subject to certain limitations. Chicago Venture is obligated to fund if each of the following conditions are met; (i) the average and median daily dollar volumes of the Company’s common stock for the twenty (20) and sixty (60) trading days immediately preceding the funding date are greater than $100,000; (ii) the Company’s market capitalization on the funding date is greater than $17,000,000; (iii) the Company is not in default with respect to share delivery obligations under the note as of the funding date; and (iv) the Company is current in its reporting obligations. Chicago Venture’ obligations under the equity line are not transferable.
The issuance of the Company’s common stock under the Chicago Venture Note will have no effect on the rights or privileges of existing holders of common stock except that the economic and voting interests of each stockholder will be diluted as a result of any such issuance. Although the number of shares of common stock that stockholders presently own will not decrease, these shares will represent a smaller percentage of the Company’s total shares that will be outstanding after any issuances of shares of common stock to Chicago Venture. If the Company’s draw down amounts under the Chicago Venture Note when the Company’s share price is decreasing, the Company will need to issue more shares to repay the same amount than if the Company’s stock price was higher. Such issuances will have a dilutive effect and may further decrease our stock price.
There is no guarantee that the Company will be able to meet the foregoing conditions or any other conditions under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note or that the Company will be able to draw down any portion of the amounts available under the Securities Purchase Agreement and/or Chicago Venture Note. However, the Company does believe there is a strong likelihood, as long as we can meet the various conditions to funding, that the Company will receive the full amount of funding under the equity line of credit. Given the Company’s financial challenges and the competitive nature of our business, the Company also believes it will need the full amount of funding under the equity line of credit in order to fully realize the business plans.
A portion of the funds received from Chicago Venture will be used to pay off TCA, a previous equity financing partner and a portion will be invested in our business. Specifically, the Company anticipates that approximately $1,400,000 is expected to be used to pay TCA and the remaining funds, if any, will be used for general business purposes such as marketing, product development, expansion and administrative costs. The Company is not aware of any relationship between TCA and Chicago Venture. The Company has had no previous transactions with Chicago Venture or any of Chicago Venture’s affiliates. The Company cannot predict whether the Chicago Venture transaction will have either a positive or negative impact on our stock price. However, in addition to the fact that each Chicago Venture conversion, when and if it occurs, has a dilutive effect on the Company’s stock price, that should Chicago Venture convert large portions of the debt into registered shares and then sells those shares on the market, that the Company’s stock price could be depressed.
As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance due to Chicago Venture is $683,042, accrued interest was $2,670, net of the OID of $121,395, which results in a net amount of $564,317. The OID has been recorded as a discount to debt and will be amortized over the life of the loan.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Chicago Venture converted principal and accrued interest of $1,403,599 into 264,672,323 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0053.
On January 10, 2017, Chicago Venture, at the Company’s instruction, remitted funds of $1,495,901 to TCA in order to satisfy all debts to TCA. On or around January 11, 2017, the Company was notified by usingTCA that $13,540 were due to TCA in order for TCA to release its security interest in the Company’s assets. On February 1, 2017, TCA notified the Company that all funds were received and TCA would release its security interest in Company’s assets. TCA has confirmed that it is paid in full and the Company is not aware of any other obligations that the Company has as to TCA. The funds received under the Chicago Venture Agreements and previous Chicago Venture Agreements were used to pay-off TCA.
Debt Purchase Agreement and First Amendment to Debt Purchase Agreement and Note Assignment AgreementOn August 24, 2016, the Company closed a discounted cash flow approach based on future economic benefits associated withDebt Purchase Agreement and a First Amendment to Debt Purchase Agreement and related agreements with customers, or through expected continued business activities with its customers. In summary, the estimate was based on a projected income approachChicago Venture and TCA.
On August 24, 2016, TCA closed an Assignment of Note Agreement and related discounted cash flows over five years,agreements with applicable risk factors assignedChicago Venture. The referenced agreements relate to assumptionsthe assignment of Company debt, in the forecasted results.form of debentures, by TCA to Chicago Venture. The Company was a party to the agreements between TCA and Chicago Venture because the Company is the “borrower” under the TCA held debentures.
Exchange Agreement, Convertible Promissory Note and related Agreements with Chicago VentureOn August 17, 2016, the Company closed an Exchange Agreement and a Convertible Promissory Note and related agreements with Chicago Venture whereby the Company agreed to the assignment of debentures representing debt between the Company, on the one hand, and with TCA, on the other hand. Specifically, the Company agreed that TCA could assign a portion of the Company’s debt held by TCA to Chicago Venture.
According to the Exchange Agreement, the debt is to be assigned in tranches, with the first tranche of debt assigned from TCA to Chicago Venture being $128,000 which is represented by an Initial Exchange Note as defined in the Exchange Agreement.
NOTE 117 – DERIVATIVE LIABILITY
In April 2008, the FASB issued a pronouncement that provides guidance on determining what types of instruments or embedded features in an instrument held by a reporting entity can be considered indexed to its own stock for the purpose of evaluating the first criteria of the scope exception in the pronouncement on accounting for derivatives. This pronouncement was effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of these requirements can affect the accounting for warrants and many convertible instruments with provisions that protect holders from a decline in the stock price (or “down-round” provisions). For example, warrants or conversion features with such provisions are no longer recorded in equity. Down-round provisions reduce the exercise price of a warrant or convertible instrument if a company either issues equity shares for a price that is lower than the exercise price of those instruments or issues new warrants or convertible instruments that have a lower exercise price.
Derivative liability as of December 31, 2016 is as follows:
| | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Inputs | |
| Financial Instruments | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Liabilities: | | | | |
| Derivative Instruments | $- | $2,701,559 | $- | $2,701,559 |
| | | | | |
| Total | $- | $2,701,559 | $- | $2,701,559 |
For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded non-cash income of $1,324,384 related to the “change in fair value of derivative” expense related to its 6%, 7% and 18% convertible notes
Derivative liability as of December 31, 2015 is as follows:
| | | | | |
| | Fair Value Measurements Using Inputs | |
| Financial Instruments | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Liabilities: | | | | |
| Derivative Instruments | $- | $1,377,175 | $- | $1,377,175 |
| | | | | |
| Total | $- | $1,377,175 | $- | $1,377,175 |
For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded non-cash income of $723,740 related to the “change in fair value of derivative” expense related to its 6%, 7% and 18% convertible notes.
The risk-free rate of return reflects the interest rate for the United States Treasury Note with similar time-to-maturity to that of the warrants.
7% Convertible Notes
As of December 31, 2013,2015, the Company had outstanding 7% convertible notes for $1,850,000 that the Company determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company had valued the derivative liability of these notes at $9,324,000 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding unsecured 7% convertible notes for $500,000 that the Company determined were ahad an embedded derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $1,278,878$105,515 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model, which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 157.1%133.2%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%.001%, (iv) stock price of $0.02,$.005, (v) per share conversion price of $0.007, and (vi) expected term of .50-.75.25 years, as the Company estimated that these notes would be converted by March 31, 2016.
As of December 31, 2016, the Company had outstanding 7% convertible notes with a remaining balance of $250,000 that the Company determined had an embedded derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $1,495,495 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model, which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 160.0%; (iii) risk free rate of .001%, (iv) stock price of $0.017, (v) per share conversion price of $0.0036, and (vi) expected term of .25 years, as the Company estimates that the balance of these notes will be converted by June 30, 2015 to September 30, 2015.March 31, 2017.
6% Convertible Notes
As of December 31, 2014,2015, the Company had outstanding unsecured 6% convertible notes for $350,000 that the Company determined were a derivative liability due to the “reset” clause associated with the note’s conversion price. The Company valued the derivative liability of these notes at $822,037$54,377 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 157.1%133.2%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%0.34%, (iv) stock price of $.02,$0.005, (v) per share conversion price of $0.007, and (vi) expected term of 1.46.56 years.
The risk-free rate of return reflects the interest rate for the United States Treasury Note with similar time-to-maturity to that of the warrants.
| | | | | | | | | | | | Carrying | |
| | | Fair Value Measurements Using Inputs | | | Amount at | |
| Financial Instruments | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | | | December 31, 2014 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Liabilities: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Derivative Instruments - Warrants | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,100,915 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,100,915 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,100,915 | | | $ | - | | | $ | 2,100,915 | |
ForFunding from TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP (“TCA”).
The First TCA SPA. On July 9, 2015, the year ended December 31, 2014,Company closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP (“TCA”), an accredited investor, whereby the Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 may be purchased in additional closings. The closing of the transaction (the “First TCA SPA”) occurred on July 9, 2015. Effective as of May 4, 2016, the Company and TCA entered into a First Amendment to the First TCA SPA whereby the parties agreed to amend the terms of the First TCA SPA in exchange for TCA’s forbearance of existing defaults by the Company.
The Second TCA SPA. On August 6, 2015, the Company closed a second Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA whereby the Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior secured convertible redeemable debenture and the Company agreed to issue and sell to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from the Company up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock pursuant to a committed equity facility. The closing of the transaction (the “Second TCA SPA”) occurred on August 6, 2015. On April 11, 2016, the Company agreed with TCA to mutually terminate the Second TCA SPA.
Amendment to the First TCA SPA. On October 27, 2015, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA whereby the Company agreed to sell, and TCA agreed to purchase $350,000 of senior secured convertible, redeemable debentures. This was an amendment to the First TCA SPA (the “Amendment to the First TCA SPA”.) As of October 27, 2015, the Company sold $1,050,000 in Debentures to TCA and up to $1,950,000 in Debentures remain for sale by the Company. The closing of the Amendment to the First TCA SPA occurred on October 27, 2015. In addition, TCA has advanced the Company an additional $100,000 for a total of $1,150.000.
Issuance of Preferred Stock to TCA. Also, on October 21, 2015 the Company issued 150,000 Series B Preferred Stock at a stated value equal to $10.00 per share to TCA. The Series B Preferred Stock is convertible into common stock by dividing the stated value of the shares being converted by 100% of the average of the five (5) lowest closing bid prices for the common stock during the ten (10) consecutive trading days immediately preceding the conversion date as quoted by Bloomberg, LP. On October 21, 2015, we also issued 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock at $0.0001 par value per share to TCA. The Series C Preferred Stock is not convertible into our common stock. In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated TCA Transaction Documents, TCA can exercise voting control over our common stock with their Series C Preferred Stock voting rights.
TCA’s Forbearance. Due to the Company’s default on its repayment obligations under the TCA SPA’s and related documents, the parties agreed to restructure the SPA’s whereby TCA agreed to forbear from enforcement of our defaults and to restructure a payment schedule for repayment of debt under the SPAs. The Company defaulted because our operating results were not as expected and the Company were unable to generate sufficient revenue through its business operations to serve the TCA debt. Specifically, the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement made the following material modifications to the existing SPA’s:
●
All unpaid debentures were modified as described in more detail below.
●
Payments on the debentures shall be made by (i) debt purchase agreement(s) to be entered into by TCA, (ii) through proceeds raised from the transaction(s) with Chicago Venture; or (iii) by the Company directly.
●
The due date of the debentures was extended to April 28, 2018.
●
TCA agreed that it shall not enforce and shall forbear from pursuing enforcement of any existing defaults by us unless and until a future Company default occurs.
In furtherance of TCA’s forbearance, effective as of May 4, 2016, the Company issued Second Replacement Debenture A in the principal amount of $150,000 and Second Replacement Debenture B in the principal amount of $2,681,210 (collectively, the “Second Replacement Debentures”).
Per the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Second Replacement Debentures were combined, and apportioned into two separate replacement debentures. The Second Replacement Debentures were intended to act in substitution for and to supersede the debentures in their entirety. It was the intent of the Company and TCA that while the Second Replacement Debentures replace and supersede the debentures, in their entirety, they were not in payment or satisfaction of the debentures, but rather were the substitute of one evidence of debt for another without any intent to extinguish the old debt. As of September 30, 2016, the maximum number of shares subject to conversion under the Second Replacement Debentures is 19,401,389. This is an approximation. The estimation of the maximum number of shares issuable upon the conversion of the Second Replacement Debentures was calculated using an estimated average price of $.0036 per share.
The Second Replacement Debentures contemplate TCA entering into debt purchase agreement(s) with third parties whereby TCA may, at its election, sever, split, divide or apportion the Second Replacement Debentures to accomplish the repayment of the balance owed to TCA by Company. The Second Replacement Debentures are convertible at 85% of the lowest daily volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s common stock during the five (5) business days immediately prior to a conversion date.
In connection with the above agreements, the parties acknowledged and agreed that certain advisory fees previously paid to TCA as provided in the SPAs in the amount of $1,500,000 have been added and included within the principal balance of the Second Replacement Debentures. The advisory fees related too financial, merger and acquisition and regulatory services provided to the Company. The conversion price discount on the Second Replacement Debentures will not apply to the advisory fees added to the Second Replacement Debentures. TCA also agreed to surrender its Series B Preferred Stock in exchange for the $1,500,000 being added to the Second Replacement Debenture.
As more particularly described below, the Company’s remain in debt to TCA for the principal amount of $1,500,000. The remaining $1,400,000 of principal debt was assigned to Old Main Capital, LLC (see discussion immediately below.) The Company intends to use the funds generated from the Chicago Venture transaction to fuel its business operations and business plans which, in turn, will presumably generate revenues sufficient to avoid another default in the remaining TCA obligations. If the Company is unable to raise sufficient funds through the Chicago Venture transaction and/or generate sales sufficient to service the remaining TCA debt then the Company will be unable to avoid another default. Failure to operate in accordance with the various agreements with TCA could result in the cancellation of these agreements, result in foreclosure on the Company’s assets in an event of default which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
On July 9, 2015, the Company valued the conversion feature as a derivative liability of this senior secured convertible redeemable debenture at $888,134 and discounted debt by $700,000 and recorded interest expense of $188,134. The Company valued the derivative liability of this debenture at $888,134 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 160.0%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.25%, (iv) stock price of $0.02, (v) per share conversion price of $0.011, and (vi) expected term of 1.0 years.
At the inception of the Replacement Debentures, the embedded derivative liability was remeasured at fair value and the Company recorded a non-cashnet gain of $7,223,085 related$420,822, using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 150.0%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.001%, (iv) stock price of $0.015, (v) per share conversion price of $0.013, and (vi) expected term of 1.0 year.
At inception, the Company valued the conversion feature of the Replacement Debentures as a derivative liability in the amount of $979,716 using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 150.0%; (iii) risk free rate of .52%, (iv) stock price of $.015, (v) per share conversion price of $0.013, and (vi) expected term of 1.0 years, as the Company estimated that the Replacement Debentures will be converted by September 30, 2017. The amount was recorded as a discount to debt and will be amortized over the “change in fair valuelife of derivative” expense related to its 6%the debentures.
As of December 31, 2016, the Company remaining debt was below $1,500,000 and 7% convertible notes.does not include a derivative liability.
NOTE 128 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS
Since January 1, 2013,2015, the Company engaged in the following reportable transactions with our directors, executive officers, holders of more than 5% of our voting securities, and affiliates or immediately family members of our directors, executive officers and holders of more than 5% of our voting securities.
Certain Relationships
Please see the transactions with CANX, LLC and Logic Works in Note 5, TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP and Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. discussed in Note 4, 6, 7 and 13.
Transactions with an EmployeeEntity Controlled by Marco Hegyi
An entity controlled by Mr. Hegyi received a warrant to purchase up to twenty five million shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.08 per share was reduced to $0.01 per share on December 18, 2015.
On March 14, 2013, the Company entered into a Notes Payable with an employee $25,000. The Note Payable provides for interest 6% per year with a term of ninety days. On June 26, 2013, the Company signed an Amended Note Payable, extending the term through September 30, 2013. On September 6, 2013,April 15, 2016, the Company issued 1,224,9181,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $20,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share. On October 12, 2016, the Company issued 4,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $40,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share.
On October 21, 2016, the Company entered into Agreement with Marco Hegyi pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Hegyi as its Chief Executive Officer through October 20, 2018. Mr. Hegyi’s previous Employment Agreement was dated December 4, 2013 and which is set to expire on December 4, 2016. Mr. Hegyi received a Warrant to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.01 per share which vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Warrants are exercisable for 5 years.
Transactions with an Entity Controlled by Mark E. Scott
An entity controlled by Mr. Scott received an option to purchase sixteen million shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.021 as payment in full$0.07 per share was reduced to $0.01 per share on December 18, 2015. Two million shares vested on August 17, 2015 with the Company’s resolution of the $25,000 principal and $723class action lawsuits. An additional two million share stock option vest on April 18, 2016 upon the Company securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s relisting on OTCBB.
On January 4, 2016, the Company issued 3,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Mark E. Scott, our Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to a conversion of accrued consulting fees and unpaid interest.
expenses for $30,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share. On March 20, 2013, this employee purchased 2,000,000October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott converted $40,000 in accrued consulting fees and expenses into 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $0.035$0.01 per share. The aggregate proceeds were $70,000. The shares were purchased as part ofprice per share was based on the Company’s Subscription Agreement dated December 2011.
Loans and Advances from Sterling C. Scott
Sterling Scott advanced various amounts to us. As of December 31, 2011, the amount due the former CEO was $183,103, and additional advances of $98,897 were made to us through April 5, 2012.thirty-day trailing average. On April 5, 2012, Mr. Scott converted $282,000 of these advances into a 6% senior convertible note. Mr. Scott made further advances during the year ended December 31, 2012 which were converted into the 6% senior convertible note. As of December 31, 2013, total amount owed toOctober 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott was $453,932, which consisted of $413,680 in principal and $40,252 in accrued interest. As of September 10, 2014, the outstanding principal balance on Mr. Scott’s 6% convertible note was $413,680 and accrued interest were sold to two parties not related to us.
Investment in Vape Holdings, Inc.
See Note 9 for additional details.
Agreement with Jeff Giarraputo
On February 26, 2014, the Company engaged Jeff Giarraputo, a member of the Board of Directors, as an advisor to the Company for six months effective as of February 15, 2014. Mr. Giarraputo agreed to provide marketing, business development, and general management to us related to the cannabis industry. As compensation for these services, and subject to approval by our Board of Directors, the Company expected to grant Mr. Giarraputo a stock option to purchase 2,000,000 shares of our common stock at $0.31 per share, which represents the 30-day trailing average of the our common stock. All shares subject to the option will vest over a six month period beginning on the date of engagement and are subject to the terms and conditions of our 2011 Stock Incentive Plan including vesting requirements. On August 19, 2014, the Parties cancelled this Agreement and this stock option was not issued.
NOTE 13 – CONVERTIBLE NOTES PAYABLE
Convertible notes payable as of December 31, 2014 consists of the following:
| | | Principal | | | | | | | | | | |
| 6% Senior secured convertible notes (2012) | | $ | 413,680 | | | $ | 71,669 | | | $ | (20,486 | ) | | $ | 464,863 | |
| 6% Secured convertible note (2014) | | | 350,000 | | | | 9,641 | | | | (261,308 | ) | | | 98,333 | |
| 7% Convertible note ($850,000) | | | 250,000 | | | | 43,973 | | | | (93,753 | ) | | | 200,220 | |
| 7% Convertible note ($1,000,000) | | | 250,000 | | | | 74,468 | | | | (102,279 | ) | | | 222,189 | |
| | | $ | 1,263,680 | | | $ | 199,751 | | | $ | (477,826 | ) | | $ | 985,605 | |
On April 10, 2014, as a result of the SEC suspension in the trading of our securities, the Company went into default on its 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable and 7% Convertible Notes Payable. As a result, the Company accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 12% and 24% per annum, respectively. Furthermore, as a result of being in default on these notes, the Holders could, at their sole discretion, call these notes. Although no such action has been taken by the Holders, the Company classified these notes as a current liability rather than long-term debt as of March 31, 2014.
During July 2014, the Company reached settlement agreements with the holders of the 7% Convertible Notes Payable and the Company is not in default under any of our convertible notes payable. The Company is accruing interest at the interest rate in the settlement agreements or convertible notes.
6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable (2012)
On September 28, 2012, the Company entered into an Amendment and Exchange Agreement (“Exchange Agreement”) with W-Net, Europa International, Inc., Sterling Scott, Robert Shapiro, Lauri Bilawa, Carla Badaracco and Forglen, LLC. The Exchange Agreement provided for the issuance of new 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes that replaced the 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes that were previously issued during 2012. The 6% Notes accrued interest at the rate of 6% per annum and had a maturity date of April 15, 2015. No cash payments were required; however, accrued interest is due at maturity. In the event of a default the Investors may declare the entire principal and accrued interest to be due and payable. Default interest will accrue at the rate of 12% per annum. The 6% Notes were secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and are convertible into common stock at the rate of $0.007 per share. The Company determined that the conversion feature was a beneficial conversion feature and determined its value to be $102,096 as of December 31, 2013, which the Company recorded as a debt discount to the 6% Notes. As of December 31, 2013 the Company owed principal of $468,680 and accrued interest of $46,196 on these 6% Notes.
On January 3, 2014, Carla Badaracco converted $30,000 of principal and $2,901 of accrued and unpaid interest into 4,700,196granted 6,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a$0.01 per share. The price per share conversion price of $0.007. Upon conversion ofwas based on the $30,000 of principal, the Company recorded $6,535 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining debt discount associatedthirty-day trailing average. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with the $30,000 of principal that was converted on January 3, 2014.
On July 3, 2014, Robert Shapero, a Holder of the Company’s 6% Convertible Notes Payable, converted $25,000 of principal and $4,136 of accrued interest into 4,162,623Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.01 per share.
Transactions with Michael E. Fasci
On January 27, 2016, the Company issued 1,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael E. Fasci, a per share conversionBoard Director, pursuant to a service award for $15,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.007.$0.01 per share. On May 25, 2016, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael E. Fasci pursuant to a service award for $50,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share.
As of September 10, 2014, the outstanding principal balance on Mr. Scott’s 6% convertible note of $413,680 and accrued interest were sold to two parties not related to us. On April 27, 2015,October 21, 2016, the Company entered into Amendment Onea Consulting Agreement with an entity controlled by Michael E. Fasci. Mr. Fasci agreed to provide services related to lender management, financing and acquisitions. Mr. Fasci’s compensation is 2,000,000 shares of our common stock valued at $0.01 per share and to be issued on April 21, 2017 and October 21, 2017.
NOTE 9 – EQUITY
Authorized Capital Stock
The Company has authorized 3,010,000,000 shares of capital stock, of which 3,000,000,000 are shares of voting common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, and 10,000,000 are shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share.
Non-Voting Preferred Stock
Under the terms of our articles of incorporation, the Company’s board of directors is authorized to issue shares of non-voting preferred stock in one or more series without stockholder approval. The Company’s board of directors has the discretion to determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences, of each series of non-voting preferred stock.
The purpose of authorizing the Company’s board of directors to issue non-voting preferred stock and determine the Company’s rights and preferences is to eliminate delays associated with a stockholder vote on specific issuances. The issuance of non-voting preferred stock, while providing flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions, future financings and other corporate purposes, could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or could discourage a third party from seeking to acquire, a majority of our outstanding voting stock. Other than the Series B and C Preferred Stock discussed below, there are no shares of non-voting preferred stock presently outstanding and we have no present plans to issue any shares of preferred stock.
Series B Preferred Stock Designation
In connection with the Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note, which increasedSecurities Purchase Agreement, the interest rateBoard of Directors, on October 21, 2015, approved the authorization of a Series B Preferred Stock as provided in our Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.
The Series B Preferred Stock has authorized 150,000 shares with a stated value equal to 12% effective April 8, 2014 and extended the maturity$10.00 per share. Dividends payable to September 15, 2015.
On July 9, 2015, the two investors each entered into Amendment Twoother classes of stock are restricted until repayment of the Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note which provide for an increase inaggregate value of Series B Preferred Stock. Upon the interest rate from 6%Company’s liquidation or dissolution, Series B Preferred Stock has no priority or preference with respect to 10% anddistributions of any assets by the default interest rate from 12% to 20% on the 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes for so long as the Company remains in technical default on said notes due to its delisting from its Primary Trading Market April 2014.Company. The Company further agreed that said 20% default interest will be applied to the date of default on April 10, 2014 and continuing through the present.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded interest expense of $32,498 and $81,610 of non-cash interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with these 6% convertible notes, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding principal on these 6% convertible notes was $413,680, accrued interest was $71,669, and unamortized debt discount was $20,486, which results in a net amount of $464,683. The Company accrued interest on these notes at the default rate of 12% from April 10, 2014 to July 10, 2014.
6% Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility (2014)
The Company entered into a Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility dated June 25, 2014 with Logic Works whereby Logic Works agreed to provide up to $500,000 in funding. Each funding requires approval in advance by Logic Works, provides for interest at 6% with a default interest of 24% per annum and requires repayment by June 26, 2016. The NoteSeries B Preferred Stock is
convertible into common stock by dividing the stated value of the Company at the lesser of $0.0070 or (B) twenty percent (20%)shares being converted by 100% of the average of the three (3)five lowest daily VWAPs occurringclosing bid prices for the common stock during the twenty (20) consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which Logic Works elects to convert all or part of this 6% Convertible Note, subject to adjustment as provided in the Note. The 6% Convertible Note is collateralized by the assets of the Company. The Company also has agreed to file a registration statement on Form S-1 within 10 days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and have the registration statement declared effective within ninety days of the filing of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2014. Due to the Company’s grey sheet trading status and other issues, the Company has not filed the registration statement.
On July 10, 2014, the Company closed a Waiver and Modification Agreement, Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement, Secured Credit Facility and Secured Convertible Note with CANX, and Logic Works LLC, a lender and shareholder of the Company.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded interest expense of $9,641 and $88,692 of non-cash interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with these 6% convertible notes, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has borrowed $350,000 under the Secured Convertible Note and Secured Credit Facility, accrued interest was $9,641 and the unamortized debt discount was $261,308, which results in a net amount of $98,333.
7% Convertible Note Payable
On October 11, 2013, the Company issued 7% Convertible Notes in the aggregate amount of $850,000 to Europa International, Inc., Myli Burger, Adam Liebross and Forglen LLC. The original principal balance is due September 30, 2015 and the annual rate of interest is 7%, which increases to 24% per annum, or the maximum rate permitted under any applicable law, in the event of default. Subject to certain limitations, the Holders can, at its sole discretion, convert the outstanding and unpaid principal and interest into shares of the Company’s common stock. The conversion price for the period of time from the date of this 7% Note through and including September 30, 2014 is the lesser of (a) $0.025 per share and (b) seventy percent (70%) of the average of the three (3) lowest daily volume weighted average closing prices occurring during the twenty (20)ten consecutive trading days immediately preceding the applicable conversion date on which the Holder electsas quoted by Bloomberg, LP.
TCA was issued 150,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock. However, in no event will Purchaser be entitled to convert all or parthold in excess of this 7% Note, subject to adjustment as provided in this 7% Note. The conversion price is $0.025 per share for the period of October 1, 2014 through the maturity date of September 30, 2015, subject to adjustment as provided in this 7% Note. At any time after the 12-month period immediately following the date of this 7% Note, the Company has the option to pre-pay the entire outstanding principal amount of this 7% Note by paying to the Holder an amount equal to one hundred and fifty percent (150%)4.99% of the principal and interest then outstanding. The Company’s obligations under this 7% Note will accelerate upon a bankruptcy event with respect to the Company or any subsidiary, any default in the Company’s payment obligations under this 7% Note, the Company’s failure to issueoutstanding shares of its common stock in connection with a conversion of this 7% Note, the Company’s or any subsidiary’s breach of any provision of any agreement providing for indebtedness of the Company or such subsidiary in an amount exceeding $100,000, the common stock of the Company being suspended or delisted from trading on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board (the “Primary Market”) market and the OTCQB, the Company losing its status as “DTC Eligible” or the Company becoming late or delinquent in its filing requirementsCompany.
In connection with the First Amendment to Amended and Restated Securities and Exchange Commission. Upon any such acceleration of this 7% Note,Purchase Agreement, TCA surrendered the Company shall be obligated to pay an amount equal to the greater of (i) one hundred and twenty percent (120%) of the outstanding principal of this 7% Note (plus all accrued but unpaid interest) and (ii) the product of (a) the highest closing price for the Company’s common stock for the five (5) days on which the Primary Market is open for business immediately preceding such acceleration and (b) a fraction, the numerator of which is the outstanding principal of this 7% Note, and the denominator of which is the applicable conversion price as of the date of determination.Series B Preferred Stock.
During July 2014, the Company reached settlement agreementsSeries C Preferred Stock Designation
In connection with the holders of the 7% Convertible Notes PayableAmended and the Company is not in default under any of our convertible notes payable. We continue to accrue interest at the interest rate in the settlement agreements.
Due to the “reset” clause in these 7% Notes relating to the conversion price, the Company determined that the conversion feature is considered a beneficial conversion feature and created a derivative. On the date of issuance of the $850,000 of 7% convertible notes, the Company calculated the value of the derivative liability using the weighted-average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model, which approximates the Monte Carlo and other binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions; (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 25.09%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.23%, (iv) expected term of 1 year, (v) market value share price of $0.063, and (vi) per share conversion price of $0.025. Based upon this model, the Company determined an initial derivative liability value of $1,292,000, which it recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance while also recording a $442,000 non-cash interest expense and an $850,000 debt discount on its balance sheet in relation to the bifurcation of the embedded conversion options of these notes.
On December 20, 2013, the Company issued 7% Convertible Notes for $1,000,000, including $500,000 each from Logic Works and China West III Investments LLC. As previously stated, due to the “reset” clause in these 7% Notes relating to the conversion price, the Company has determined that the conversion feature is considered a beneficial conversion feature and thereby creates a derivative. On the date of issuance of the $1,000,000 of 7% convertible notes, the Company calculated the value of the derivative liability using the weighted-average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model, which approximates the Monte Carlo and other
binomial valuation techniques, with the following assumptions; (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 45.04%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.02%, (iv) expected term of 1 year, (v) market value share price of $0.14, and (vi) per share conversion price of $0.025. Based upon this model, the Company determined an initial derivative liability value of $4,600,000, which it recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance while also recording a $3,600,000 non-cash interest expense and an $1,000,000 debt discount on its balance sheet in relation to the bifurcation of the embedded conversion options of these notes.
At December 31, 2013, the outstanding principal balance on these 7% convertible notes was $1,850,000, the accrued and unpaid interest totaled $15,668, and the related debt discount totaled $1,698,292, for a net value of $167,376.
On March 7, 2014, the Company issued 2,000,000 shares of its common stock to Adam Liebross related to the conversion of $50,000 of principal at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. Upon the conversion of the $50,000, the Company recorded $39,583 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining portion of the debt discount related to the $50,000 of principal.
On March 18, 2014, the Company issued 22,727,668 shares of its common stock to Adam Liebross (8,300,260 shares), Myli Burger Holdings LLC (4,122,248 shares) and Europa International Inc. (10,304,800 shares) related to the total conversion of $550,000 of principal and $18,192 of accrued and interest at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. Upon the conversion of the $550,000, the Company recorded $435,412 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining portion of the debt discount related to the $550,000 of principal.
On April 9, 2014, the Company issued 5,347,032 shares of its common stock to Forglen LLC related to the conversion of $125,000 of principal and $8,676 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. Upon the conversion of the $125,000, the Company recorded $197,915 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining portion of the debt discount related to the $125,000 of principal. On July 14, 2014,Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, the Board of Directors, on October 21, 2015, approved the authorization of a Settlement Agreement and Waiver of Default dated June 19, 2014 with Forglen related to the 7% Convertible Note. The Company cancelled the April 9, 2014 conversionSeries C Preferred Stock as a result of the SEC suspensionprovided in the tradingCompany’s Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and the Company’s securities. The Company recorded a non-cash interest credit $67,703 to record this transaction.
On April 9, 2014, the Company issued 5,347,032issuance of 51 shares of its common stock to Forglen LLC related to the conversion of $125,000 of principal and $8,676 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. On July 14, 2014, the Board of Directors approved a Settlement Agreement and Waiver of Default dated June 19, 2014 with Forglen related to the 7% Convertible Note. The Company cancelled the April 9, 2014 conversion as a result of the SEC suspension in the trading of the Company’s securities and Forglen has $250,000 of principal and interest outstanding on his note payable.
On June 4, 2014, the Company issued 20,640,548Series C Preferred Stock. These shares of the Company’s common stock to China West III Investments LLC related to the conversion of $500,000 of principal and $16,014 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.033 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. Upon the conversion of the $500,000, the Company recorded $363,640 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining portion of the debt discount related to the $500,000 of principal.
On July 31, 2014, Logic Works, a Holder of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable, converted $250,000 of principal into 35,714,286 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007. Upon the conversion of the $250,000, the Company recorded $181,820 of non-cash interest expense to fully amortize the remaining portion of the debt discount related to the $250,000 of principal. The principal balance due to Logic Works as of December 31, 2014 is $250,000 is due September 30, 2015. The current annual rate of interest is 24% per annum. The conversion price is $0.007 per share.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded interest expense of $136,980 and $1,502,260 of non-cash interest expense related to the amortization of the debt discount associated with these 7% convertible notes, respectively. As of March 31, 2015, the outstanding principal on these 7% convertible notes was $500,000, accrued interest was $118,441, and unamortized debt discount was $196,032, which results in a net amount of $422,409.
12% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable
On June 7, 2013, the Company issued $800,000 of 12% Senior Secured Convertible Notes to the former owners of RMH/EGC. These 12% Convertible Notesonly have a two year term, with the expiration date of June 8, 2015. The 12% Convertible Notes are secured by substantially all of the Company’s assets. Interest accrues daily on the outstanding principal amount at an annual rate of 12%. The holders of the 12% Convertible Notes can, at their sole discretion, convert any or all of the outstanding principal and accrued and unpaid interest into shares of the Company’s common stock. The conversion price was $0.035 per share, which was subject to adjustmentvoting rights in the event of any stock splits, stock dividends,a default by us under the Amended and similar events. Restated Transaction Documents. The Series C Preferred Stock is cancelled with the repayment of the TCA debt.
The Series C Preferred Stock Designation authorizes 51 shares of Series C Preferred Stock. Series C Preferred Stock is not entitled to dividend or liquidation rights and is not convertible into our common stock.
In the event of a default under the Amended and Restated Transaction Documents, each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall have voting votes equal to 0.019607 multiplied by the Company,total issued and outstanding common stock and preferred stock eligible to vote divided by .49 minus the numerator. For example, if the total issued and outstanding principal amountcommon stock eligible to vote is 5,000,000, the voting rights of these 12% Convertible Notes, plus accrued interest, liquidated damages and other amounts owing in respect thereof through the dateone share of acceleration,Series C Preferred Stock shall become, at the holder’s sole discretion, immediately due and payable in cash. be equal to 102,036 (e.g. ((0.019607 x 5,000,000/0.49) – (0.019607 x 5,000,000) = 102,036). In addition, in the event of a default under the rate of interest will increase to 18%Amended and will be calculated in the same manner described above.Restated TCA Transaction Documents, TCA can exercise voting control over our common stock.
At December 31, 2013,In connection with the outstanding principal balance on these 12% convertible notes was $408,000 with accrued interest totaling $27,608, for a total amount owed of $435,608. On the date these notes were issued, it was determined that there was a beneficial conversion feature valued at $0.005 per share, or $114,285 in the aggregate, which was recorded as a debt discount. As of December 31, 2013, the unamortized debt discount related to these 12% convertible notes was $41,825.
On January 31, 2014, the Company issued 12,562,518 shares of its common stock related to the conversion of $408,000 of principal and $31,688 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.035closing of the Company’s 12% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable. DuringChicago Venture transactions which closed on February 1, 2017, TCA surrendered the three month period ended March 31, 2014, the Company recorded $4,080 of interest expense and $41,825 of non-cash interest expense related to the amortization of the $41,285 of debt discount. As of March 31, 2014, these 12% convertible notes had been satisfied in full and all related debt discount had been fully amortized as non-cash interest expense. Series C Preferred Stock.
NOTE 14 – EQUITY
Common Stock
Unless otherwise indicated, all of the following sales or issuances of Company securities were conducted under the exemption from registration as provided under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 (and also qualified for exemption under 4(5), formerly 4(6) of the Securities Act of 1933, except as noted below). All of the shares issued were issued in transactions not involving a public offering, are considered to be restricted stock as defined in Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933 and stock certificates issued with respect thereto bear legends to that effect.
The Company has compensated consultants and service providers with restricted common stock during the development of our business and when our capital resources were not adequate to provide payment in cash.
During the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, the Company had had the following sales of unregistered of equity securities to accredited investors unless otherwise indicated:
On January 4, 2016, the Company issued 3,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Mark E. Scott, our Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to a conversion of accrued consulting fees and expenses for $30,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott converted $40,000 in accrued consulting fees and expenses into 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott was granted 6,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.01 per share. The price per share was based on the thirty-day trailing average. On October 21, 2016, an entity affiliated with Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.01 per share.
On January 27, 2016, the Company issued 1,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael E. Fasci, a Board Director, pursuant to a service award for $15,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share. On May 25, 2016, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock to Michael E. Fasci pursuant to a service award for $50,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share.
In consideration for advisory services provided by TCA to the Company, the Company issued 15,000,000 shares of Common Stock during the year ending December 31, 2015. As the common stock was conditionally redeemable, the Company recorded the common stock as mezzanine equity in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. As of September 30, 2016, the shares are no longer conditionally redeemable and were recorded as issued and outstanding common stock.
The Company issued $2 million in common stock or 115,141,048 shares of our common stock on April 6, 2016 pursuant to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California. The Company accrued $2,000,000 as loss on class action lawsuits and contingent liabilities during the year ending December 31, 2015.
On April 15, 2016, the Company issued 1,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $20,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.02 per share. On October 12, 2016, the Company issued 4,000,000 shares of its common stock to an entity affiliated with Marco Hegyi, pursuant to a conversion of debt for $40,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.01 per share.
On July 13, 2016, the Company issued 6,000,000 shares of common stock pursuant to Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, a former executive, which were valued at the fair market price of $0.010 per share.
On October 21, 2016, the Company issued 5,020,000 shares to two former directors and a supplier (unaccredited) for services provided. The Company valued the 5,020,000 shares at $0.01 per share or $50,200.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, the Company issued 6,400,000 shares of its common stock to two service providers (one unaccredited) pursuant to conversions of debt totaling $64,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.010 per share.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Holders of the Company’s Convertible Notes Payables, converted principal and accrued interest of $1,080,247 into 186,119,285 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.006.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Old Main converted principal and accrued interest of $757,208 into 144,650,951 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0052.
During the year ended December 31. 2016, Chicago Venture converted principal and accrued interest of $1,403,599 into 264,672,323 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.0053.
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company had had the following sales of unregistered sales of equity securities:
On January 3, 2014,June 16, 2015, the Company issued 4,700,1967,772,725 shares of its common stock to Carla Badaracco related to thea supplier pursuant a conversion of $30,000 of principal and $2,901 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.007 of the Company’s 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable.
On January 31, 2014, the Company issued 12,562,518 shares of its common stock related to the conversion of $408,000 of principal and $31,688 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.035 of the Company’s 12% Senior Secured Convertible Notes Payable.
On January 31, 2014, the Company issued 2,351,187 shares of its common stock to Doug Braun related to the exercise of a stock option granted in fiscal year 2011. The Company received $44,673 or $0.019 per share.
On February 13, 2014, the Company issued 29,420 shares of its common stock to Alby Segall, a third party consultant and non-accredited investor, as payment in fulldebt for services rendered.$171,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.3399 per share.
On February 16, 2014, the Company issued 1,250,000 shares of its common stock to Integrity Media, Inc. related to a November 16, 2013 Service Agreement for investor relations. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.38$0.022 per share.
On March 7, 2014,December 18, 2015, the Company issued 2,000,000 shares ofto two if its common stock to Adam Liebross related to the conversion of $50,000 of principal at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable.
On March 18, 2014, the Company issued 22,727,668 shares of its common stock to Adam Liebross (8,300,260 shares), Myli Burger Holdings LLC (4,122,248 shares) and Europa International Inc. (10,304,800 shares) related to the total conversion of $550,000 of principal and $18,192 of accrued and interest at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable.
On March 20, 2014, the Company issued 2,775,000 shares of its common stock to Doug Braun related to the cashless exercise of a stock option granted in fiscal year 2011 to purchase 4,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.23 per share.
On March 31, 2014, the Company issued 500,000 shares to each of its fourformer independent Board Directors,Directors. The Company valued the 2,000,0004,000,000 shares at $0.58$0.01 per share which was the closing price of the Company’s common stock on March 31, 2014. The Company recorded stock based compensation of $1,160,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2014. On April 25, 2014, the Company entered into four Restricted Stock Cancellation Agreements with the four independent members of the Company’s Board of Directors, pursuant to which the Directors agreed to each cancel 500,000 shares of the Company’s restricted common stock granted to each Director on March 31, 2014. The Company recorded a reduction in common stock and an increase in additional paid in capital of $200 during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 are related to cancellation of the Restricted Stock Agreements.or $40,000.
The Company issued the following warrants during the year ended December 31, 2016.
On April 9, 2014, the Company issued 5,347,032 shares of its common stock to Forglen LLC related to the conversion of $125,000 of principal and $8,676 of accrued interest atOctober 21, 2016, Mr. Hegyi received a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable.
On June 4, 2014, the Company issued 20,640,548 shares of the Company’s common stock to China West III Investments LLC related to the conversion of $500,000 of principal and $16,014 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.033 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable.
On July 1, 2014, Horwitz and Armstrong LLP converted debt of $100,000 debt into 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.11 and a cash payment of $35,000.
On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of restricted common stock at $.085 per share. Mr. Scott was awarded a stock option grant on November 3, 2013 for 12,000,000 shares and had vested 3,500,000 shares as of his resignation on May 19, 2014. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.085 per share.
On July 3, 2014, Robert Shapero, a Holder of the Company’s 6% Convertible Notes Payable, converted $25,000 of principal and $4,136 of accrued interest into 4,162,623 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007.
On April 9, 2014, the Company issued 5,347,032 shares of its common stock to Forglen LLC related to the conversion of $125,000 of principal and $8,676 of accrued interest at a per share conversion price of $0.025 of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable. On July 14, 2014, the Board of Directors approved a Settlement Agreement and Waiver of Default dated June 19, 2014 with Forglen related to the 7% Convertible Note. The Company cancelled the April 9, 2014 conversion as a result of the SEC suspension in the trading of the Company’s securities.
On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013. The Company agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.08 per share.
On July 31, 2014, Logic Works, a Holder of the Company’s 7% Convertible Notes Payable, converted $250,000 of principal into 35,714,286 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007.
On August 1, 2014, the Company issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Joseph Barnes pursuant to an Manager Services Agreement with Mr. Barnes dated August 1, 2013. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.08 per share.
On August 15, 2014, the Company issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Dennis Kuznetsov pursuant to an Employment Agreement with Mr. Kuznetsov dated August 15, 2013. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.06 per share.
On August 27, 2014, the Company issued 5,000,000 shares of its common stock to D. Weckstein and Co., Inc. pursuant to an Investment Banking Letter. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.08 per share.
On September 15, 2014, the Company issued 80,000 shares of its common stock to Josh Nash pursuant to an Employment Agreement with Mr. Nash dated September 15, 2013. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.07 per share.
On October 1, 2014, the Company issued 100,000 shares of its common stock to Jeremy Belmont pursuant to an Employment Agreement with Mr. Belmont dated October 1, 2013. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.06 per share.
On October 8, 2014, Fifth Avenue Law Group PLLP converted debt of $68,000 debt into 1,360,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.05.
On October 31, 2014, the Company issued 100,000 shares of its common stock to Frank Hariton pursuant to a Legal Agreement with Mr. Hariton dated August 14, 2014. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.05 per share.
On December 10, 2014, the Company issued 200,000 shares of its common stock to Velomedia, Inc. pursuant to a debt conversion. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.05 per share.
Warrants
On November 19, 2013, the Company issued a warrant for 140,000,000 common shares to CANX or its assignees in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement. The warrants have a five-year term with an original exercise price of $0.033 per share. The warrants vest immediately and are exercisable in whole, or in part, at any time and from time to time on or after the issue date and on or before the termination date. The Company valued the warrants at the time of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 24.82%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.05% and (iv) an expected term of one year. The Company expensed the entire $5,040,000 at the time of issuance because the warrants vested immediately and were also exercisable immediately.
On February 7, 2014, the Company issued a warrant for 100,000,000 common shares to CANX or its assignees in accordance with the Joint Venture Agreement. The warrants have a five-year term with an original exercise price of $0.033 per share The warrant was earned by CANX upon completion of the Company’s increase in the number of authorized common shares from 1 billion to 3 billion shares. This increase in authorized shares was effective with the shareholder approval on February 7, 2014. The Company valued the warrants at the time of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 200%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78% and (iv) an expected term of five years. The Company expensed the entire $33,700,000 at the time of issuance because the warrants vested immediately and were also exercisable immediately.
The Company entered into an Amended and Restated Joint Venture Agreement dated July 1, 2014 with CANX and granted on July 10, 2014 CANX five year warrants, subject to extension,Warrant to purchase 300,000,000up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock at the fair market price of $0.033 per share as determined by an independent appraisal; The warrants vest immediately and are exercisable in whole, or in part, at any time and from time to time on or after the issue date and on or before the termination date. The Company valued the warrants at the time of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 161.0%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78% and (iv) an expected term of five years. The Company expensed the entire $28,800,000 at the time of issuance because the warrants vested immediately and were also exercisable immediately.
On December 11, 2013, the Company issued a warrant for 25,000,000 common shares to Hegyi, LLC,at an entity controlled by Marco Hegyi, President of the Company. The warrants have a five-year term with an original exercise price of $0.08$0.01 per share. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.01 per share which vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Warrants are exercisable for 5 years. The warrants vest immediatelywere valued at $390,000 and are exercisable in whole, or in part, at any time and from time to time on or after the issue date and on or before the termination date. The Company valuedrecorded $23,958 of compensation expense for the warrants that had vested at the time of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 88.81%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.02% and (iv) an expected term of three years. The Company expensed the entire $1,725,000 at the time of issuance because the warrants vested immediately and were also exercisable immediately.December 31, 2016.
A summary of the warrants issued as of December 31, 2014 were2016 is as follows:
| | | December 31, 2014 | |
| | | | | | Weighted | |
| | | | | | Average | |
| | | | | | Exercise | |
| | | Shares | | | Price | |
| Outstanding at beginning of period | | | 165,000,000 | | | $ | 0.040 | |
| Issued | | | 400,000,000 | | | | 0.033 | |
| Exercised | | | - | | | | - | |
| Forfeited | | | - | | | | - | |
| Expired | | | - | | | | - | |
| Outstanding at end of period | | | 565,000,000 | | | $ | 0.035 | |
| Exerciseable at end of period | | | 565,000,000 | | | | | |
| | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Outstanding at beginning of period | 565,000,000 | $0.032 |
| Issued | 30,000,000 | 0.010 |
| Exercised | - | - |
| Forfeited | - | - |
| Expired | - | - |
| Outstanding at end of period | 595,000,000 | $0.031 |
| Exerciseable at end of period | 595,000,000 | |
A summary of the status of the warrants outstanding as of December 31, 20142016 is presented below:
| | | | | December 31, 2014 | | |
| | | | | Weighted | | | Weighted | | | | | | Weighted | | | | |
| | | | | Average | | | Average | | | | | | Average | | | | |
| Number of | Number of | | | Remaining | | | Exercise | | | Shares | | | Exercise | | | | | |
| Warrants | Warrants | | | Life | | | Price | | | Exerciseable | | | Price | | | | | |
| 540,000,000 | 540,000,000 | | | | 4.31 | | | $ | 0.033 | | | | 540,000,000 | | | $ | 0.033 | | 2.31 | $0.033 | 540,000,000 | $0.033 |
| 25,000,000 | | | | 3.94 | | | | 0.080 | | | | 25,000,000 | | | | 0.080 | | |
55,000,000 | | 3.54 | 0.010 | 35,000,000 | 0.010 |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 565,000,000 | | | | 4.27 | | | $ | 0.035 | | | | 565,000,000 | | | $ | 0.035 | | |
595,000,000 | | 2.34 | $0.031 | 575,000,000 | $0.032 |
Warrants totaling 565,000,00035,000,000 shares of common stock havehad an intrinsic value of $0$245,000 as of December 31, 2014.2016.
NOTE 15 –10– STOCK OPTIONS
Description of Stock Option Plan
In fiscal year 2011, the Company authorized a Stock Incentive Plan whereby a maximum of 18,870,184 shares of the Company’s common stock could be granted in the form of Non-Qualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and Other Stock-Based Awards. On April 18, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors voted to increase to 35,000,000 the maximum allowable shares of the Company’s common stock allocated to the 2011 Stock Incentive Plan. The Company has outstanding unexercised stock option grants totaling 40,720,00012,010,000 shares as of December 31, 2014.2016. All grants are non-qualified as the plan was not approved by the shareholders within one year of its adoption.
Determining Fair Value under ASC 505
The Company records compensation expense associated with stock options and other equity-based compensation using the Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model for estimating fair value of stock options granted under our plan. The Company amortizes the fair value of stock options on a ratable basis over the requisite service periods, which are generally the vesting periods. The expected life of awards granted represents the period of time that they are expected to be outstanding. The Company estimates the volatility of our common stock based on the historical volatility of its own common stock over the most recent period corresponding with the estimated expected life of the award. The Company bases the risk-free interest rate used in the Black Scholes-Merton option valuation model on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with an equivalent remaining term equal to the expected life of the award. The Company has not paid any cash dividends on our common stock and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Consequently, the Company uses an expected dividend yield of zero in the Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model and adjusts share-based compensation for changes to the estimate of expected equity award forfeitures based on actual forfeiture experience. The effect of adjusting the forfeiture rate is recognized in the period the forfeiture estimate is changed.
Stock Option Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2013,2016, the Company had the following stock option activity:
On November 3, 2013,An entity controlled by Mr. Scott had a two million share stock option that was previously issued vest on April 18, 2016 upon the Company securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s Boardrelisting on OTCBB.
An employee resigned January 13, 2016 and an option to purchase five million shares of Directors granted Sterling Scott, the Company’s then Chief Executive Officer, acommon stock option viaunder the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan expired on April 13, 2016.
An employee forfeited a stock grant for 10,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.
On October 12, 2016, the Company amended the exercise price of the stock option grants for Mr. Barnes to purchase$0.010 per share.
On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.085 per share, which represents the fair value of one share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares were to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after October 31, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $537,600 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 82.77%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.02%, (iv) expected term of 3 years, and a per share market price of $0.085, which was the closing price of the Company’s shares on November 1, 2013. Beginning in November 2013 and ending October 2015, the Company will expense the $537,600 over the 24-month vesting term of the option. On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of restricted common stock at $.085$0.01 per share. Mr. Scott was awarded ahas an additional 2,000,000 share stock option grant on November 3, 2013 for 12,000,000 shares and had vested 3,500,000 shares as of his resignation on May 19, 2014.
On November 3, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors granted John Genesi, the Company’s then Chief Financial Officer, a stock option via the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan to purchase 10,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.085 per share, which represents the fair value of one share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares werecontinues to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after October 31, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $448,000 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 82.77%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.02%, (iv) expected term of 3 years,over 36 months and a per share market price of $0.085, which was the closing price of the Company’s shares on November 1, 2013. Beginning in November 2013 and ending October 2015, the Company will expense the $448,000 over the 24-month vesting term of the option. On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013, including this 10,000,0002,000,000 share stock option grant.
On November 3, 2013,grant which vests upon the Company’s Boardachievement of Directors approved a stock option grantcertain performance goals related to Rob Hunt, a then Director and President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc., via the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan to purchase 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.043 per share, which represents the fair value of one share of the Company’s common stock on June 7, 2013. The option grant was made retro-active to June 8, 2013, the date on which Mr. Hunt became a Director of the Company and the President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares were to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after June 7, 2013, they could be exercised at any time on or after the grant date, the term was ten years, and the options could be exercised onacquisitions.
a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $228,000 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 82.77%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.04%, (iv) expected term of 2 years, and a per share market price of $0.043, which was the closing price of the Company’s shares on June 7, 2013. Beginning in June 2013 and ending May 2015, the Company will expense the $228,000 over the 24-month vesting term of the option.On October 17, 2014, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement ("ESA") dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares.
During the year ended December 31, 2014,2015, the Company had the following stock option activity:
On January 31, 2014, Doug Braun, a former employee, exercised a stock option granted during fiscal year 2011 to purchase 2,351,187 shares of the Company’s common stock at a per share exercise price of $0.019 per share, which generated proceeds of $44,673 for the Company.
On March 20, 2014, Doug Braun, a former employee, exercised a stock option granted in fiscal year 2011 to purchase 4,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.23 per share exercised his option on a cashless basis. Per the terms of the Stock Option Agreement, the net number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued to Mr. Braun was 2,775,000.
On June 3, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors granted four employees, a stock option via the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan to purchase a total 9,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.150 per share, which represents the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares were to vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments starting August 1, 2013 to October 1, 2013. The term was five years,Adam Edwards resigned July 11, 2015 and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $608,724 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 200.0%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%, (iv) expected term of 3 years, and a per share market price of $0.15, which was the closing price of the Company’s shares on June 3, 2014. Beginning in June 2014 and ending October 2015, the Company will expense the $608,724 over the 24-month vesting term of the option. The four employees cancelled the stock option grants as of September 30, 2014.
On July 3, 2014, Sterling C. Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of our restricted common stock valued at $67,614 or $.085 per share.
On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013, including the stock option grant for 10,000,000 shares.
On July 31, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors granted Mr. Scott an option to purchase 16,000,000four million five hundred thousand shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at $0.05 per shares expired on October 10, 2015.
Ms. Tina Qunell resigned July 2, 2015 and an exercise price of $0.07 per share, the fair market price on July 31, 2014. The shares vest as follows:
| | |
| i | Twooption to purchase seven million shares will vest immediately upon securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s relisting on OTCBB (not earned as of December 31, 2014); |
| | |
| ii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon the successful approval and effectiveness of the Company’s S-1 (not earned as of December 31, 2014); |
| | |
| iii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon the Company’s resolution of the class action lawsuits (not earned as of December 31, 2014); and, |
| | |
| iv | Ten million shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the July 1, 2014. |
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. The Company valued the grant for 10,000,000 shares at $292,480 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 200.0%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%, (iv) expected term of 3 years, and a per share market price of $0.07, which was the closing price of the Company’s shares on July 1, 2014. Beginning in August 2014 and ending five years from issuance, the Company will expense the $292,480 over the 36-month vesting term of the option.
On October 10, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors granted three employees, acommon stock option grant viaunder the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at $0.05 per share expired on October 1, 2015.
Resigned employees forfeited options to purchase a total 17,500,000200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price of $0.05 per share which represents the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares (i) stock option grants for 4,400,000 shares vested immediately; and (ii) stock option grants for 14,100,000 shares vest quarterly over thirty six months starting October 10, 2014 to October 9, 2017. The term was five years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $263,908 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 161.5%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%, (iv) expected term of 3 years, and a per share market price of $0.04, which was below the $0.05 per share closing price of
the Company’s shares on October 10, 2014. The Company expensed $69,996expired during the year ended December 31, 2014. Beginning in January 2015 and ending October 2017, the Company will expense the $194,922 over the 33-month remaining vesting term of the option.2015.
On December 10, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors granted 23 employees, a stock option grant via the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan to purchase a total 7,220,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.05 per share, which represents the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Per the terms of the stock option agreement, the shares vest (i) stock option grants for 1,000,000 shares vested immediately; and (ii) stock option grants for 6,220,000 shares vest over thirty six months starting December 10, 2014 to December, 2017. The term was five years, and the options could be exercised on a cashless basis. The Company valued the options at $102,286 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: (i) dividend yield of 0%; (ii) expected volatility of 149.8%; (iii) risk free rate of 0.78%, (iv) expected term of 3 years, and a per share market price of $0.04, which was below the $0.05 per share closing price of the Company’s shares on December 10, 2014. The Company expensed $7,098 during the year ended December 31, 2014. Beginning in January 2015 and ending December 2017, the Company will expense the $95,187 over the 35-month remaining vesting term of the option.
On October 17, 2014, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares.
As of December 31, 2014,2016, there are 40,720,00012,010,000 options to purchase common stock at an average exercise price of $0.058$0.010 per share outstanding under the 2011 Stock Incentive Plan. The Company recorded $724,267$121,770 and $146,633$175,661 of compensation expense, net of related tax effects, relative to stock options for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 20132015 in accordance with ASC 505. Net loss per share (basic and diluted) associated with this expense was approximately ($0.00). AtAs of December 31, 2014,2016, there is approximately $541,011$22,631 of total unrecognized costs related to employee granted stock options that are not vested. These costs are expected to be recognized over a period of approximately 4.712.88 years.
Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013 was2015 is as follows:
| | | Weighted Average | |
| | | Options | | | Exercise Price | | | $ | | |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2012 | | | 12,851,187 | | | $ | 0.098 | | | $ | 1,259,781 | |
| Granted | | | 34,000,000 | | | | 0.070 | | | | 2,386,000 | |
| Exercised | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | |
| Forfeitures | | | (6,000,000 | ) | | | (0.030 | ) | | | (180,108 | ) |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2013 | | | 40,851,187 | | | | 0.085 | | | | 3,465,673 | |
| Granted | | | 49,720,000 | | | | 0.075 | | | | 3,706,000 | |
| Exercised | | | (5,126,187 | ) | | | (0.13 | ) | | | (682,923 | ) |
| Forfeitures | | | (44,725,000 | ) | | | (0.092 | ) | | | (4,132,751 | ) |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2014 | | | 40,720,000 | | | $ | 0.058 | | | $ | 2,356,000 | |
| | |
| | | | |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2014 | 40,720,000 | $0.058 | $2,356,000 |
| Granted | - | - | (960,000) |
| Exercised | - | - | - |
| Forfeitures | (11,700,000) | (0.050) | (585,000) |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2015 | 29,020,000 | 0.028 | 811,000 |
| Granted | - | - | - |
| Exercised | - | - | - |
| Forfeitures | (17,010,000) | (0.041) | (690,500) |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2016 | 12,010,000 | $0.010 | $120,500 |
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014:2016:
| | | | | | | Weighted | | | Weighted | | | | | | Weighted | |
| | | | | | | Average | | | Average | | | | | | Average | |
| Range of | | | Number | | | Remaining Life | | | Exercise Price | | | Number | | | Exercise Price | |
| Exercise Prices | | | Outstanding | | | In Years | | | Exerciseable | | | Exerciseable | | | Exerciseable | |
| $ | 0.05 | | | | 24,720,000 | | | | 4.80 | | | $ | 0.050 | | | | 5,758,333 | | | $ | 0.050 | |
| | 0.07 | | | | 16,000,000 | | | | 4.58 | | | | 0.070 | | | | 1,944,444 | | | | 0.070 | |
| | | | | | 40,720,000 | | | | 4.71 | | | $ | 0.058 | | | | 7,702,777 | | | $ | 0.056 | |
F-24
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
$0.05 | 10,000 | 3.11 | $0.050 | 6,667 | $0.050 |
| 12,000,000 | 2.88 | 0.010 | 8,277,778 | 0.010 |
| 12,010,000 | 2.88 | $0.010 | 8,284,444 | $0.010 |
Stock option grants totaling 40,720,00012,010,000 shares of common stock have an intrinsic value of $0$84,070 as of December 31, 2014.2016.
NOTE 1611 – COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved in the disputes and legal proceedings described below. In addition, as a public company, the Company is also potentially susceptible to litigation, such as claims asserting violations of securities laws. Any such claims, with or without merit, if not resolved, could be time-consuming and result in costly litigation. The Company accrues any contingent liabilities that are likely.
Class Actions Alleging Violations of Federal Securities Laws
Beginning on April 18, 2014, three class action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California (the “Court”). At a hearing held on July 21, 2014, the three class action lawsuits were consolidated into one case with Lawrence Rosen as the lead plaintiff (the “Consolidated Class Action,” styled Romero et al. vs. GrowLife et al.). On May 15, 2014 and August 4, 2014, respectively two shareholder derivative lawsuits were filed against the Company with the Court (the “Derivative Actions”). On October 20, 2014, AmTrust North America, the Company’sour insurer, filed a lawsuit contesting insurance coverage on the above legal proceedings. The Company made a general appearance in this action. On January 20, 2015, the Court ordered all of the above actions stayed pending completion of mediation of the dispute.
The parties then worked diligently to finalizeaccrued $2,000,000 as settlement documentation on the above actions. On April 27, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Consolidated Class Action.
On June 1, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Derivative Actions pursuant to a proposed stipulated settlement agreement.
On August 3, 2015, the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Consolidated Class Action litigation in its entirety. The Consolidated Class Action was thereby dismissed in its entirety with prejudice and without costs.
On August 10, 2015, pursuant to a settlement by and between the Company and AmTrust North America, AmTrust’s lawsuit contesting insurance coverage of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Actions was dismissed in its entirety with prejudice pursuant to a Stipulation for DismissalAction lawsuits alleging violations of Entire Action with Prejudice executed by and between AmTrust andfederal securities laws that were filed against the Company.
On August 17, 2015,Company during the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Derivative Actions in their entirety. The Derivative Actions were thereby dismissed in their entirety with prejudice.
As a result of the foregoing, all litigation discussed herein is resolved in full at this time.
year ending December 31, 2015. The Company is obligated to issueissued $2 million in common stock or approximately 115.1 million115,141,048 shares relatedof the Company’s common stock on April 6, 2016 pursuant to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California.
Section 16(b) Claims
The Company received four demand letters from potential plaintiffs regarding alleged Section 16(b) short-swing violations by Sterling Scott in July 2014. The Company believes the claims are without merit and has responded to the Section 16(b) claims accordingly. Two of the four claims have acknowledged our position and have been withdrawn. There has been no response to the Company’s position from the remaining two potential plaintiffs.
Sales, Payroll and PayrollOther Tax Liabilities
As of September 30, 2015,December 31, 2016, the Company owes approximately $87,000$128,989 in sales tax and $20,000 in payroll taxes primarily from early 2014.tax.
Potential Convertible Note Defaults
Several of the Company’s convertible promissory notes remain outstanding beyond their respective maturity dates. This may trigger an event of default under the respective agreements. The Company is currently negotiating or operating under payment plans onworking with these liabilities.noteholders to convert their notes into common stock and intends to resolve these outstanding issues as soon as practicable.
Other Legal Proceedings
The Company is in default on our Portland, Maine and Boulder, Colorado store leasesbeen sued for non-payment of lease payments at closed stores in Boulder, Colorado and the Company is negotiating with the landlords.Plaistow, New Hampshire. The Company is currently subject to legal actions with various vendors.
It is possible that additional lawsuits may be filed and served on the Company.
Operating Leases
Current Operating Leases
Upon the Company’s acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC,On December 7, 2016, the Company assumed the lease for the RMH/EGCentered into entered into a Consent to Judgement and Settlement Agreement related to its retail hydroponics store located in Portland, Maine. TheThis Agreement provides for a monthly lease commencement date waspayment of $4,668 through May 2, 2017. If the Company is in compliance with the Settlement Agreement, it can can extend the lease from May 2, 2017 to May 1, 2013 with an expiration date2020 at the monthly lease payment of April 30, 2016.$5,373. The monthly rentCompany also agreed to a repayment schedule for year one of the lease was $4,917, with monthlypast due rent of $5,065 in year two, and monthly rent of $5,217 in year three of the lease.$70,013. The Company hasdoes not have an option to extend the lease for two three year terms as long it is not in default under the lease.after May 1, 2020.
On October 21, 2013, the Company entered into a lease agreement for retail space for its hydroponics store in Avon (Vail), Colorado. The lease expires on September 30, 2018. Monthly rent for year one of the lease is $2,606 and increases 3.5% per year thereafter through the end of the lease. The Company does not have an option to extend the lease.
On January 23, 2014, the Company entered into a lease agreement for retail space for its hydroponics store in Boulder, Colorado. The lease commenced on February 1, 2014 and expires on May 31, 2017. Monthly rent for year one of the lease was $4,051, with monthly rent of $4,173 in year two, $4,298 in year three, and $4,427 for month 37 through 39. The Company has an option to extend the lease for one three year terms as long it is not in default under the lease.
On June 18, 2014,2016, the Company rented space at 500 Union Street, Suite 810, Seattle,5400 Carillon Point, Kirkland, Washington 98033 for $1,539 per month for its corporate office. The Company rents the space on a month to month basis for $1,700 per month.
Terminated Operating Leases
In May 2011, the Company entered into a lease for its Phototron business unit to rent a warehouse facility in Gardena, California. The terms of the lease provide for monthly rental expense of $4,065 with annual rent increases through the expiration of the lease onCompany’s agreement expires May 31, 2014. During the last twelve months of the lease the monthly rent was $4,313. The Company terminated this lease as of May 31, 2014.
Upon the Company’s acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, the Company assumed the lease for the RMH/EGC retail hydroponics store located in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The lease commencement date was May 1, 2013 with an expiration date of January 31, 2016. The monthly rent throughout the term of the lease is $2,105. The Company vacated this store and expect to terminate this lease during 2015.
On June 5, 2013, the Company entered into a lease to rent office space in Woodland Hills, California for the Company’s corporate headquarters. The landlord was 20259 Ventura Blvd LP, which was a previous affiliate of a stockholder of our company. The term was for ninety days2017 and can be renewed, or terminated, by either party with thirty days written notice. The monthly rent was $6,758. The Company terminated this lease as of June 30, 2014.extended.
On May 30, 2013, the Company entered into a lease to rent retail space in Woodland Hills, California for its Urban Garden Supply (Soja, Inc.) hydroponics store. The term was for ninety days and can be renewed, or terminated, by either party with ninety days written notice. The monthly rent was $3,257. The Company terminated this lease as of June 1, 2015.
F-25
On August 26, 2013, the Company entered into a lease agreement for warehouse and retail space for its Greners (Business Bloom, Inc.) business unit in Santa Rosa, California. The lease commencement date was September 1, 2013 with an expiration date of August 31, 2015. The monthly rent is $3,000. The Company terminated this lease as of November 25, 2014.
On September 23, 2013, the Company entered into an Assignment and Assumption and Amendment of Lease Agreement for the Company’s retail hydroponics store in Peabody, Massachusetts. The original lease between the landlord and Evergreen Garden Center, LLC was assigned from Evergreen Garden Center, LLC to GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. In addition, the term of the lease was extended from the original expiration date of October 31, 2013 to October 31, 2014. The monthly rent remained at $4,500 through October 31, 2014. The Company’s lease expired on October 31, 2014.
The aggregate future minimum lease payments under operating leases, to the extent the leases have early cancellation options and excluding escalation charges, are as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | | Total | | |
| 2015 | | $ | 175,080 | | |
| 2016 | | | 101,432 | | |
| 2017 | | | 50,438 | | $115,205 |
| 2018 | | | - | | 15,579 |
| 2019 | | | - | | 0 |
| 2020 | | 0 |
| 2021 | | - |
| Beyond | | | - | | - |
| Total | | $ | 326,950 | | $130,784 |
Employment and Consulting Agreements
Employment Agreement with Marco Hegyi
On December 4, 2013,October 21, 2016, the Company entered into an Employment Agreement with Marco Hegyi pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Hegyi as its President fromChief Executive Officer through October 20, 2018. Mr. Hegyi’s previous Employment Agreement was dated December 4, 2013 throughand which is set to expire on December 4, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Hegyi Agreement, Mr. Hegyi established an office in Seattle, Washington while also maintaining operations in the Southern California area. 2016.
Mr. Hegyi’s annual compensation is $150,000 for the first year of the Hegyi Agreement; $250,000 for the second year; and $250,000 for the third year.$250,000. Mr. Hegyi is also entitled to receive an annual bonus equal to four percent (4%) of the Company’s EBITDA for that year. The annual bonus shall be paid no later than 31 days (i.e., by January 31st) following the end of each calendar year. Mr. Hegyi’s first annual bonus will be calculated based on the Company’s EBITDA for calendar year 2014, with such bonus payable on or before January 31, 2015. If Mr. Hegyi’s employment is terminated for any reason prior to the expiration of the Term, as applicable, his annual bonus will be prorated for that year based on the number of days worked in that year. At the commencement of Mr. Hegyi’s employment, an entity affiliated with
Mr. Hegyi received a Warrant to purchase up to 25,000,00010,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.08$0.01 per share. In addition, Mr. Hegyi received Warrants to purchase up to 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.01 per share which vest on October 21, 2017 and 2018. The Hegyi Warrant isWarrants are exercisable for five years. On June 20, 2014, the Company and Mr. Hegyi reduced the warrant life from ten to five5 years.
Mr. Hegyi waswill be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’s senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. In addition, the Company agreed towill purchase and maintain during the Term a “key manager”an insurance policy on Mr. Hegyi’s life in the amount of $4,000,000, paid as $2,000,000 payable to Mr. Hegyi’s named heirs or estate as the beneficiary, and $2,000,000 payable to the Company. The Company and Mr. Hegyi waived this $2,000,000 key manager insurance. If, prior to the expiration of the Term, the Company terminates Mr. Hegyi’s employment for “Cause”, or if Mr. Hegyi voluntarily terminates his employment without “Good Reason”, or if Mr. Hegyi’s employment is terminated by reason of his death, then all of the Company’s obligations hereunder shall cease immediately, and Mr. Hegyi will not be entitled to any further compensation beyond any pro-rated base salary due and bonus amounts earned through the effective date of termination. Mr. Hegyi will also be reimbursed for any expenses incurred prior to the date of termination for which he was not previously reimbursed.beneficiary.
If the Company terminates Mr. Hegyi’s employment at any time prior to the expiration of the Term without Cause, as defined in the Employment Agreement, or if Mr. Hegyi terminates his employment at any time for “Good Reason” or due to a “Disability”, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to receive (i) his base salaryBase Salary amount through the end of the Term; and (ii) his annual bonusAnnual Bonus amount for each year during the remainder of the Term, which bonus amount shall be equal to the greater of (A) the annual bonus amount for the immediately preceding year, or (B) the bonus amount that would have been earned for the year of termination, absent such termination. Term.
If there has been a “Change in Control” and the Company (or its successor or the surviving entity) terminates Mr. Hegyi’s employment without Cause as part of or in connection with such Change in Control (including any such termination occurring within one (1) month prior to the effective date of such Change in Control), then in addition to the benefits set forth above, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to (i) an increase of $300,000 in his annual base salary amount (or an additional $25,000 per month) through the end of the Term; plus (ii) a gross-up in the annual base salary amount each year to account for and to offset any tax that may be due by Mr. Hegyi on any payments received or to be received by Mr. Hegyi under this Agreement that would result in a “parachute payment” as described in Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. If the Company (or its successor or the surviving entity) terminates Mr. Hegyi’s employment without Cause within twelve (12) months after the effective date of any Change in Control, or if Mr. Hegyi terminates his employment for Good Reason within twelve (12) months after the effective date of any Change in Control, then in addition to the benefits set forth above, Mr. Hegyi will be entitled to (i) an increase of $300,000 in his annual base salary amount (or an additional $25,000 per month), which increased annual base salary amount shall be paid for the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer; (ii) a gross-up in the annual base salary amount each year to account for and to offset any tax that may be due by Mr. Hegyi on any payments received or to be received by Mr. Hegyi under this Letter Agreement that would result in a “parachute payment” as described in Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; (iii) payment of Mr. Hegyi’s annual bonus amount as set forth above for each year during the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer; and (iv) health insurance coverage provided for and paid by the Company for the remainder of the Term or for two (2) years following the Change in Control, whichever is longer.
Consulting Chief Financial Officer Agreement with an Entity Controlled by Mark E. Scott
On July 31, 2014, the Company entered into a Consulting Chief Financial Officer Letter with an entity controlled by Mark E. Scott pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Scott as its Consulting CFO from July 1, 2014 through September 30, 2014, and continuing thereafter until either party provides sixty day notice to terminate the Letter or Mr. Scott enters into a full-time employment agreement.
Per the terms of the Scott Agreement, Mr. Scott’s compensation is $150,000 on an annual basis for the first year of the Scott Agreement. Mr. Scott is also entitled to receive an annual bonus equal to two percent of the Company’s EBITDA for that year. The Company’s Board of Directors granted Mr. Scott an option to purchase sixteen million shares of the Company’s Common Stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price of $0.07 per share, the fair market price on July 31, 2014. On December 18, 2015, the Company reduced the exercise price to $0.01 per share.The shares vest as follows:
| | | |
| | i | Two million shares will vest immediately upon securing a market maker with an approved 15c2-11 resulting in the Company’s relisting on OTCBB (not earned(earned as of December 31, 2014)February 18, 2016); |
| | |
| | ii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon the successful approval and effectiveness of the Company’s S-1 (not earned as of December 31, 2014)2016); |
| | | |
| | iii | Two million shares will vest immediately upon the Company’s resolution of the class action lawsuits (earned as of August 17, 2015); and, |
| | | |
| | iv | Ten million shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the July 1, 2014. |
On October 21, 2016, Mr. Scott cancelled stock option grants totaling 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.01 per share. Mr. Scott has an additional 2,000,000 share stock option grant which continues to vest monthly over 36 months and a 2,000,000 share stock option grant which vests upon the achievement of certain performance goals related to acquisitions.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Scott’s continuous status as employeeconsultant to the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Scott terminates his employment with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Scott Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan except for CANX USA, LLC, then 100% of the total number of shares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Scott will be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’s senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. In addition, the Company is required to purchase and maintain an insurance policy on Mr. Scott’s life in the amount of $2,000,000 payable to Mr. Scott’s named heirs or estate as the beneficiary. Finally, Mr. Scott is entitled to twenty days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
If, prior to the expiration of the Term, the Company terminates Mr. Scott’s employment for Cause, or if Mr. Scott voluntarily terminates his employment without Good Reason, or if Mr. Scott’s employment is terminated by reason of his death, then all of the Company’s obligations hereunder shall cease immediately, and Mr. Scott will not be entitled to any further compensation beyond any pro-rated base salary due and bonus amounts earned through the effective date of termination. Mr. Scott will also be reimbursed for any expenses incurred prior to the date of termination for which he was not previously reimbursed. Mr. Scott may receive severance benefits and the Company’s obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Scott terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Promotion Letter with Joseph Barnes
On October 10, 2014, the Company entered into a Promotion Letter with Joseph Barnes which was effective October 1, 2014 pursuant to which the Companywe engaged Mr. Barnes as its Senior Vice-President of Business Development from October 1, 2014 on an at will basis. This Promotion Letter supersedes and cancelscanceled the Manager Services Agreement with Mr. Barnes dated August 1, 2013.
Per the terms of the Barnes Agreement, Mr. Barnes’s compensation is $90,000 on an annual basis. On January 1, 2016, Mr. Barnes salary was increased to $120,000 per year. Mr. Barnes received a bonus of $6,500 and is also entitled to receive a quarterly bonus based on growth of the Company’sour growth margin dollars. No quarterly bonuses were earned under this Promotion Letter. Mr. Barnes was granted an option to purchase eight million shares of the Company’sour common stock under the Company’sour 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price on the date of grant.$0.050 per share. The shares vest as follows:
| | | |
| | i | Two million shares vested immediately; |
| | | |
| | iv | Six million shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the date of grant. |
On October 12, 2016, the Company amended the exercise price of the stock option grants for Mr. Barnes to $0.010 per share.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’sour Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Barnes’s continuous status as employee to the Companyus is terminated by the Companyus without Cause or Mr. Barnes terminates his employment with the Companyus for Good Reason as defined in the Barnes Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’sour Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of shares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Barnes was entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’sour senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. Finally, Mr. Barnes is entitled to fifteen days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
Mr. Barnes may receive severance benefits and the Company’sour obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Barnes terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Executive Employment Agreement with Sterling C. Scott
On November 3, 2013, the Company entered into an Executive Employment Agreement with Sterling C. Scott pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Scott as Chief Executive Officer from November 3, 2013 to November 2, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Scott Agreement, Mr. Scott received an annual salary of $120,000 and he was eligible for any benefits made generally available by the Company. Mr. Scott was eligible to receive any bonuses made generally available by the Company, and he was reimbursed for any reasonable expenses incurred while performing his duties as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Scott Agreement also granted Mr. Scott non-qualified options to purchase 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The options included a cashless exercise feature and vest in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing on October 31, 2013. In the event that the Company’s Board of Directors accepted any offers that would when executed result in a change of control transaction involving more than 50% of the issued shares of Company, then vesting of non-qualified options to Mr. Scott shall be accelerated, at the election in writing by the Mr. Scott, to the date on which the Company’s Board of Directors determined to accept such offer.
On May 19, 2014, the Board of Directors ratified the resignation of Sterling Scott effective immediately as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board of Directors and a member of the Board of the Company. This resignation cancelled Mr. Scott’s Executive Employment Agreement.
On July 3, 2014, Sterling Scott exercised his option on a cashless basis and was issued 795,455 shares of our restricted common stock valued at $67,614 or $.085 per share.
Agreements with Robert Hunt
On June 7, 2013, the Company entered into an Executive Services Agreement with Robert Hunt, pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Hunt, from June 8, 2013 through June 7, 2015 to provide consulting and management services as the President of GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. Upon Mr. Hunt’s employment by the Company, the Company paid Mr. Hunt an annual salary of $75,000 (the “Base Salary”). Such Base Salary shall increase to the annual rate of $100,000 on the first day of the month following the month in which GrowLife’s gross monthly sales reach $840,000. Mr. Hunt was entitled to receive an annual cash bonus (“Bonus”) as follows for its fiscal year 2013: 100% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; 75% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 125% but less than 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; and 50% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 100% of sales projections for such fiscal year. The Bonus, if any, was be paid to Mr. Hunt upon the earlier of (1) the completion of the preparation of the Company’s audited financial statements for such fiscal year and (2) April 1 of the Company’s next fiscal year. Mr. Hunt was entitled to receive an annual cash bonus (“Bonus”) as follows for its fiscal year 2014: 100% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; 75% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 125% but less than 150% of sales projections for such fiscal year; and 50% of the Base Salary in effect as of December 31 of the Company’s applicable fiscal year, if GrowLife achieves at least 100% of sales projections for such fiscal year. The Bonus, if any, was be paid to Mr. Hunt upon the earlier of (1) the completion of the preparation of the Company’s audited financial statements for such fiscal year and (2) April 1 of the Company’s next fiscal year. Mr. Hunt received, upon approval by the Company’s Board of Directors, non-qualified options to purchase 12,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, at a per share exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of the Company’s common stock on the June 7, 2013 grant date and vested in 24 equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing from and after June 7, 2013. The options included a cashless exercise feature.
Mr. Hunt also entered into a NonCompetition, NonSolicitation and NonDisclosure Agreement dated June 7, 2013 whereby Mr. Hunt agreed to not compete with the Company for five years from June 7, 2013 or two years after any termination of employment of Mr. Hunt.
On May 30, 2014, the Company announced the resignation of Robert Hunt effective May 23, 2014 as Executive Vice President of Growlife, Inc., President of Growlife Hydroponics. On June 3, 2014, the Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Robert Hunt effective June 2, 2014 as a Director of the Company. On October 17, 2014, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release with Mr. Robert Hunt, whereby the Parties cancelled the Executive Services Agreement ("ESA") dated June 7, 2013 and his stock option grant for 12,000,000 shares. The Company agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock under certain conditions that have not been met, pay cash severance totaling $50,000 monthly over five month starting October 25, 2014 and reimburse Mr. Hunt for health insurance benefits and other expenses monthly over five months starting October 25, 2014. The Parties entered into a release agreement.
Executive Employment Agreement with John Genesi
On November 3, 2013, the Company entered into an Executive Employment Agreement with John Genesi, pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Genesi as our Chief Financial Officer from November 3, 2013 through November 2, 2016 to provide consulting and management services. Per the terms of the Genesi Agreement, Mr. Genesi received an annual salary of $100,000, he was eligible for any benefits made generally
available by the Company, he was eligible to receive any bonuses made generally available by the Company, and he was reimbursed for any reasonable expenses incurred while performing his duties as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. The Genesi Agreement also granted Mr. Genesi non-qualified options to purchase 10,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The options included a cashless exercise feature and vested in twenty-four (24) equal monthly installments on the last day of each month commencing on October 31, 2013. In the event that the Company’s Board of Directors excepted any offers that would when executed result in a change of control transaction involving more than 50% of the issued shares of Company, then vesting of non-qualified options to Mr. Genesi shall be accelerated, at the election in writing by the Mr. Genesi, to the date on which the Company’s Board of Directors determined to accept such offer.
On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into a Severance Agreement with Mr. Genesi whereby Mr. Genesi resigned as Chief Financial Officer and the Parties cancelled the Executive Employment Agreement dated November 3, 2013, including the stock option grant for 10,000,000 shares. The Company agreed to issue 6,000,000 shares of restricted common stock, pay cash severance of six months of compensation payable monthly and provide health insurance benefits for six months from the Termination Date.
Promotion Letter with Jeremy Belmont
On October 10, 2014, the Company entered into a Promotion Letter with Jeremy Belmont which was effective October 1, 2014 pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Belmont as Vice President of Sales from October 1, 2014 on an at will basis. This Promotion Letter supersedes and cancels the Manager Services Agreement with Mr. Belmont dated October 1, 2013.
Per the terms of the Belmont Agreement, Mr. Belmont’s compensation is $72,000 on an annual basis. Mr. Belmont received a bonus of $6,500 and is also entitled to receive a quarterly bonus based on growth of the Company’s growth margin dollars. Mr. Barnes was granted an option to purchase five million shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price on the date of grant. The Shares vest as follows:
| | |
| i | One million four hundred thousand shares vested immediately; |
| | |
| iv | Three million six hundred thousand shares will vest on a monthly basis over a period of three years beginning on the date of grant. |
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Belmont’s continuous status as employee to the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Belmont terminates his employment with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Belmont Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’s Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of Shares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Belmont will be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’s senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. Finally, Mr. Belmont is entitled to fifteen days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
Mr. Belmont may receive severance benefits and the Company’s obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Belmont terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Promotion Letter with Adam Edwards
On October 10, 2014, the Company entered into a Promotion Letter with Adam Edwards which was effective October 1, 2014 pursuant to which the Company engaged Mr. Edwards as Vice President of Sales from October 1, 2014 on an at will basis.
Per the terms of the Edwards Agreement, Mr. Edwards’s compensation is $72,000 on an annual basis. Mr. Edwards received a bonus of $6,500 and is also entitled to receive a quarterly bonus based on growth of the Company’s growth margin dollars. Mr. Edwards was granted an option to purchase four million five hundred thousand shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price on the date of grant. The shares vested quarterly over thirty six months.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Mr. Edwards’s continuous status as employee to the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Edwards terminates his employment with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Edwards Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’s Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of shares shall immediately become vested.
Mr. Edwards will be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’s senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. Finally, Mr. Edwards is entitled to fifteen days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
Mr. Edwards may receive severance benefits and the Company’s obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Mr. Edwards terminates his employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Mr. Edwards resigned July 11, 2015.
Offer Letter with Tina Qunell
On November 20, 2014, the Company entered into an Offer Letter with Tina Qunell which was effective November 24, 2014 pursuant to which the Company engaged Ms. Qunell as Vice President of Marketing on an at will basis.
Per the terms of the Qunell Agreement, Ms. Qunell’s compensation is $72,000 on an annual basis. Ms. Qunell was granted an option to purchase seven million shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s 2011 Stock Incentive Plan at an exercise price on the date of grant. One million of the shares vested immediately and six million vest quarterly over thirty six months.
All options will have a five-year life and allow for a cashless exercise. The stock option grant is subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s Stock Incentive Plan, including vesting requirements. In the event that Ms. Qunell’s continuous status as employee to the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or Mr. Qunell terminates her employment with the Company for Good Reason as defined in the Qunell Agreement, in either case upon or within twelve months after a Change in Control as defined in the Company’s Stock Incentive, then 100% of the total number of shares shall immediately become vested.
Ms. Qunell will be entitled to participate in all group employment benefits that are offered by the Company to the Company’s senior executives and management employees from time to time, subject to the terms and conditions of such benefit plans, including any eligibility requirements. Finally, Ms. Qunell is entitled to fifteen days of vacation annually and also has certain insurance and travel employment benefits.
Ms. Qunell may receive severance benefits and the Company’s obligation under a termination by the Company without Cause or Ms. Qunell terminates her employment for Good Reason are discussed above.
Ms. Qunell resigned July 2, 2015.
Investment Banking Letter with D. Weckstein and Co. Inc.
On August 27, 2014, the Company issued 5,000,000 shares of its common stock to D. Weckstein and Co., Inc. pursuant to an Investment Banking Letter. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.08 per share.
Consulting Agreement with an Entity Controlled by Michael E. Fasci
On October 21, 2016, the Company entered into a Consulting Agreement with an entity controlled by Michael E. Fasci. Mr. Fasci agreed to provide services related to lender management, financing and acquisitions. Mr. Fasci’s compensation is 2,000,000 shares of our common stock valued at $0.01 per share and to be issued on April 21, 2017 and October 21, 2017.
NOTE 1712 – INCOME TAXES
The Company has incurred losses since inception, which have generated net operating loss carryforwards. The net operating loss carryforwards arise from United States sources.
Pretax losses arising from United States operations were approximately $86,626,099$6,500,000 and $21,380,138$5,800,000 and for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively.
The Company has net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $11,964,000,$16,000,000, which expire in 2022-2033.2022-2032. Because it is not more likely than not that sufficient tax earnings will be generated to utilize the net operating loss carryforwards, a corresponding valuation allowance of approximately $4,785,742$6,600,000 was established as of December 31, 2014.2016. Additionally, under the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the amounts of, and benefits from, net operating losses may be limited in certain circumstances, including a change in control.
Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code generally imposes an annual limitation on the amount of net operating loss carryforwards that may be used to offset taxable income when a corporation has undergone significant changes in its stock ownership. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to utilize any net operating loss carryforwards in the future.
For the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, the Company’s effective tax rate differs from the federal statutory rate principally due to net operating losses, warrants issued for services, change in fair value of derivative and debt discount.
The principal components of the Company’s deferred tax assets at December 31, 20142016 and 20132015 are as follows:
| | | | | |
| U.S. operations loss carry forward and state at statutory rate of 40% | $6,584,821 | $5,852,421 | $5,038,976 | $3,612,736 |
| Less valuation allowance | (6,584,821) | (5,852,421) | (5,038,976) | (3,612,736) |
| Net deferred tax assets | - | - | - | - |
| Change in valuation allowance | $(6,584,821) | $(5,852,421) | $(5,038,976) | $(3,612,736) |
| | | 2014 | | | 2013 | |
| U.S. operations loss carry forward and state at statutory rate of 40% | | $ | 4,785,742 | | | $ | 3,612,736 | |
| Less valuation allowance | | | (4,785,742 | ) | | | (3,612,736 | ) |
| Net deferred tax assets | | | - | | | | - | |
| Change in valuation allowance | | $ | (4,785,742 | ) | | $ | (3,612,736 | ) |
A reconciliation of the United States Federal Statutory rate to the Company’s effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 20142016 and 2013 is2015is as follows:
| | | 2014 | | | 2013 | | | | | |
| Federal statutory rate | | | -34.0 | % | | | -34.0 | % | -34.0% |
| State income tax rate | | | -6.0 | % | | | -6.0 | % | -6.0% |
| Change in valuation allowance | | | 40.0 | % | | | 40.0 | % | 40.0% |
| Effective tax rate | | | 0.0 | % | | | 0.0 | % | 0.0% |
The Company’s tax returns for 2011 to 2015 are open to review by the Internal Revenue Service.
NOTE 1813 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
The Company evaluates subsequent events, for the purpose of adjustment or disclosure, up through the date the financial statements are available.
Subsequent to December 31, 2014,2016, the following material transactions occurred:
Equity Issuance
On June 16, 2015, the Company issued 7,772,725 shares of its common stock to Horwitz + Armstrong LLP pursuant to a conversion of debt for legal services rendered to the Company in the amount of $171,000. The shares were valued at the fair market price of $0.022 per share.
Class Actions Alleging Violations of Federal Securities Laws
Beginning on April 18, 2014, three class action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California (the “Court”). At a hearing held on July 21, 2014, the three class action lawsuits were consolidated into one case with Lawrence Rosen as the lead plaintiff (the “Consolidated Class Action,” styled Romero et al. vs. GrowLife et al.). On May 15, 2014 and August 4, 2014, respectively two shareholder derivative lawsuits were filed against the Company with the Court (the “Derivative Actions”). On October 20, 2014, AmTrust North America, the Company’s insurer, filed a lawsuit contesting insurance coverage on the above legal proceedings. The Company made a general appearance in this action. On January 20, 2015, the Court ordered all of the above actions stayed pending completion of mediation of the dispute.
The parties then worked diligently to finalize settlement documentation on the above actions. On April 27, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Consolidated Class Action.
On June 1, 2015, the Court preliminarily approved the proposed settlement of the Derivative Actions pursuant to a proposed stipulated settlement agreement.
On August 3, 2015, the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Consolidated Class Action litigation in its entirety. The Consolidated Class Action was thereby dismissed in its entirety with prejudice and without costs.
On August 10, 2015, pursuant to a settlement by and between the Company and AmTrust North America, AmTrust’s lawsuit contesting insurance coverage of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Actions was dismissed in its entirety with prejudice pursuant to a Stipulation for Dismissal of Entire Action with Prejudice executed by and between AmTrust and the Company.
On August 17, 2015, the Court entered a Final Order and Judgment resolving the Derivative Actions in their entirety. The Derivative Actions were thereby dismissed in their entirety with prejudice.
As a result of the foregoing, all litigation discussed herein is resolved in full at this time.
The Company is obligated to issue $2 million in common stock or approximately 115.1 million shares related to the settlement of the Consolidated Class Action and Derivative Action lawsuits alleging violations of federal securities laws that were filed against the Company in United States District Court, Central District of California.
Sales and Payroll Tax Liabilities
AsOn January 2, 2017, Brighton Capital LLC converted debt of September 30, 2015,$127,148 into 15,893,500 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.008.
During the Company owes approximately $87,000 in sales taxthree months ended March 31, 2017, Chicago Venture converted principal and $20,000 in payroll taxes primarily from early 2014. The Company is currently negotiating or operating under payment plans on these liabilities.interest of $1,253,000 into 190,189,197 shares of our common stock at a per share conversion price of $0.007.
Other Legal Proceedings
The Company is in default on our Portland, Maine and Boulder, Colorado store leases for non-payment of lease payments and the Company is negotiating with the landlords. The Company is currently subject to legal actions with various vendors.
Terminated Operating Leases
Upon the Company’s acquisition of Rocky Mountain Hydroponics, LLC and Evergreen Garden Center, the Company assumed the lease for the RMH/EGC retail hydroponics store located in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The lease commencement date was May 1, 2013 with an expiration date of January 31, 2016. The monthly rent throughout the term of the lease is $2,105. The Company vacated this store and expect to terminate this lease during 2015.
On May 30, 2013, the Company enteredFebruary 28, 2017, Logic Works converted principal and interest of $291,044 into 82,640,392 shares of our common stock at a lease to rent retail space in Woodland Hills, California for its Urban Garden Supply (Soja, Inc.) hydroponics store. The term was for ninety days and can be renewed, or terminated, by either party with ninety days written notice. The monthly rent was $3,257. The Company terminated this lease asper share conversion price of June 1, 2015.$.004.
Secured Convertible Debenture Transaction with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP
On July 9, 2015, the Company closed a Securities Purchase AgreementTransactions with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. (‘Chicago Venture”) and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP an accredited investor, whereby(“TCA”)
On February 1, 2017, the Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000 of senior secured convertible redeemable debentures, of which $700,000 was purchased on July 9, 2015 and up to $2,300,000 may be purchased in additional closings. The closing ofclosed the Transaction occurred on July 9, 2015.transactions described below with Chicago Venture Partners, L.P. (“Chicago Venture”).
Securities Purchase Agreement, Secured Promissory Notes, Membership Interest Pledge Agreement and Security Agreement
As set forth above,On January 9, 2017, the Company executed the following agreements with Chicago Venture: (i) Securities Purchase Agreement; (ii) Secured Promissory Notes; (iii) Membership Interest Pledge Agreement; and (iv) Security Agreement (collectively the “Chicago Venture Agreements”). The Company entered into the Securities Purchase Agreement on July 9, 2015Chicago Venture Agreements with the Purchaser whereby the Purchaser agreed to purchase up to $3,000,000intent of the Debentures of which $700,000 was purchased at Closing. In connection with the Securities Purchase Agreement, the Company, at the discretion of Purchaser, may request in writing at any time after the Closing that Purchaser purchase additional Debentures at agreed upon time periods and amounts.
The Securities Purchase Agreement also provides that the Company shall, within ninety days of Closing, file any and all periodic reports with the SEC required under the Exchange Act to become current with the Company’s reporting requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and shall usepaying its best efforts to obtain approval for the listing and quotation of the Company’s common stock on the OTC Bulletin Board, or another Principal Trading Market more senior and established than the OTC Pink Sheets and approved by Purchaser, and to have such Common Stock trading in such Principal Trading Market.
In consideration for advisory services provided by Purchaser to the Company prior to the Closing, the Company paid to Purchaser a fee by issuing to Purchaser 10,000,000 shares of Common Stock at $0.02 per share equal to $200,000. The Advisory Fee Shares were valued at a price equal to the lowest volume weighted average price for the Common Stock for the five (5) Business Days immediately prior to the Effective Date, as reported by Bloomberg (the “VWAP”). The Advisory Fee Shares are subject to adjustment as provided in the Securities Purchase Agreement. The Company also paid certain transaction, due diligence and document review and legal fees to the Purchaser in connection with the Transaction.
Senior Secured, Convertible, Redeemable Debenture
The Company entered into an initial Debenture dated July 9, 2015 with the Purchaser whereby the Purchaser purchased $700,000 in senior secured, convertible, redeemable debentures in exchange for $700,000 in immediately available and lawful money of the United States of America. The Company promised to pay Purchaser, by no later than October 9, 2016 the outstanding principal together with interest on the outstanding principal amount under the Debenture, at the rate of 18% per annum simple interest. The Company shall make monthly payments of principal and interest on the Debenture to Purchaser, while this Debenture is outstanding, until the Maturity Date, based on the payment, amortization and redemption premium schedule attached as Schedule A to the Debenture.
The indebtedness evidenced by this Debenture is also secured by a first priority lien and security interest in all of the assets and property of the Company and various other instruments as set forth in the Transaction Documents, subject to the terms and conditions of the Intercreditor Agreement described below.
At any time while the Debenture is outstanding on or after the Closing, (i) if mutually agreed upon by the parties or (ii) at the sole option of the Purchaser upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Purchaser may convert all or any portion of the outstanding principal, accrued and unpaid interest redemption premium and any other sums due and payable hereunder or under
any of the other Transaction Documents into shares of Common Stock of the Company at a price equal to: (i) the Conversion Amount (the numerator); divided by (ii) 90% of the lowest of the average daily volume weighted average price of the Company’s Common Stock during the 5 trading days immediately prior to the Conversion Date (the denominator).
Security Agreement(s)
In connection with the Securities Purchase Agreement and Debenture, the Company entered into a Security Agreement dated July 9, 2015 with the Purchaser whereby the Company agreed to grant to Purchaser an unconditional and continuing, first priority security interest in all of the assets and property of the Company to secure the prompt payment, performance and dischargedebt, in full, of all of Company’s obligations under the Debentures, the Purchase Agreement and the other Transaction Documents, subject to the terms and conditions of the Intercreditor Agreement set forth below.
In addition, each of the Company’s operating subsidiaries also agreed to grant to Purchaser an unconditional and continuing, first priority security interest in all of the assets and property of each of the subsidiaries to further secure the prompt payment, performance and discharge in full of all of Company’s obligations under the Debentures, the Purchase Agreement and the other Transaction Documents.
Guaranty Agreement(s)
In connection with the Securities Purchase Agreement and Debenture, each of the Company’s operating subsidiaries entered into Guaranty Agreements dated July 9, 2015 with the Purchaser whereby the subsidiaries agreed to guarantee and become surety to Purchaser for the full, prompt and unconditional payment of the Liabilities and payment and performance of the Company’s obligations and the full, prompt and unconditional performance of each term and condition to be performed by Company under the Debentures and the other Transaction Documents.
Pledge Agreement(s)
In connection with the Securities Purchase Agreement and Debenture, the Company entered into Pledge Agreements dated July 9, 2015 with the Purchaser whereby the Company agreed to pledge to Purchaser its shares in each of its operating subsidiaries as further security for the payment and performance of the Company’s obligations and the full, prompt and unconditional performance of each term and condition to be performed by Company under the Debentures and the other Transaction Documents.
Intercreditor Agreement and Related Creditor Documentation
On July 9, 2015, the Company, each of its subsidiaries, Purchaser and Logic Works LLC (an existing senior secured creditor) entered into an Intercreditor Agreement whereby Purchaser and Logic Works agreed that their outstanding senior secured loans to the Company be secured on a pari passu basis with respect to all assets and property of the Company and its subsidiaries. As a result of the Intercreditor Agreement, all sums secured or owing to Purchaser and Logic Works shall be held by them on a pari passu and pro-rata basis between them, in proportion to such party’s outstanding principal amount owing under their respective loan documents.
In addition, the Company, each of its subsidiaries, Purchaser and Jordan Scott and Andrew Gentile, respectively, each entered into Subordination Agreements dated July 9, 2015 whereby Scott and Gentile agreed to subordinate their existing 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes, dated March 16, 2012, as amended, all of their indebtedness, obligations and security interests to the Purchaser’s security interests as more fully set forth in the Transaction Documents.
On July 9, 2015, Jordan Scott and Andrew Gentile each entered into Amendment Two of the Amended and Restated 6% Senior Secured Convertible Note which provide for an increase in the interest rate from 6% to 10% and the default interest rate from 12% to 20% on the 6% Senior Secured Convertible Notes for so long as the Company remains in technical default on said notes due to its delisting from its Primary Trading Market April 2014. The Company further agreed that said 20% default interest will be applied to the date of default on April 10, 2014 and continuing through the present.
Committed Equity Facility Transaction with TCA Global Credit Master Fund LP
On August 6, 2015, the Company closed a Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with TCA Global Credit Master Fund, LP whereby(“TCA”), which included any TCA affiliates.
The total amount of funding under the Chicago Venture Agreements is $1,105,000.00 (the “Debt”). Each Convertible Promissory Note carries an original issue discount of $100,000 and a transaction expense amount of $5,000, for total debt of $1,105,000. The Company agreed to sell and TCA agreed to purchase a $100,000 senior securedreserve 500,000,000 of its shares of common stock for issuance upon conversion of the Debt, if that occurs in the future. If not converted sooner, the Debt is due on or before January 9, 2018. The Debt carries an interest rate of ten percent (10%). The Debt is convertible, redeemable debenture and the Company agreed to issue and sell to TCA, from time to time, and TCA agreed to purchase from the Company up to $3,000,000 ofat Chicago Venture’s option, into the Company’s common stock pursuant to a Committed Equity Facility. The closing of the Transaction occurred on August 6, 2015.
In consideration for advisory services provided by Purchaser to the Company prior to the, the Company paid to Purchaser a fee by issuing to Purchaser 5,000,000 shares of Common Stock at $0.02$0.009 per share equal to $100,000. The Advisory Fee Shares were valued at price equal to the lowest volume weighted average price for the Common Stock for the five (5) Business Days
immediately prior to the issuance. The Advisory Fee Shares are subject to adjustment as provided for in the Securities Purchase Agreement. The Company also paid certain transaction, due diligenceSecured Promissory Notes attached hereto and document review and legal fees in connection with the Transaction.
The Company entered into a Debenture dated August 6, 2015 with the Purchaser whereby the Purchaser purchased $100,000 in a senior secured, convertible, redeemable debenture from the Company in exchange for $100,000. The Company promised to pay Purchaser,incorporated herein by no later than August 6, 2016 the outstanding principal together with interest on the outstanding principal amount under the Debenture, at the ratethis reference. As of 18% per annum simple interest. The Debenture is convertible only at the option of Purchaser upon an event of default at a conversion price of 90%)of the lowest of the average daily volume weighted average price of the Company’s Common Stock during the 5 trading days immediately prior to the conversion date.
In addition, the Company entered into a Committed Equity Facility, dated August 6, 2015, with the Purchaser in which the Company agreed to issue and sell to the Purchaser, from time to time, and the Purchaser agreed to purchase from the Company up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s common stock. At any time during the duration of the agreement and after the Company has an effective registration statement outstanding, the Company can require the Purchaser to purchase shares of its common stock which will be sold by Purchaser with the net proceeds provided to the Company, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Committed Equity Facility.
To facilitate the Committed Equity Facility, the Company has granted the Purchaser certain registration rights pursuant to a Registration Rights Agreement dated August 6, 2015 whereby the Company will file a registration statement no later than seventy-five (75) days from the date of this report on Form 8-K, Chicago Venture has funded the Committed Equity Facility to facilitate the purchase and saleentire amount of the common stock underDebt.
Chicago Venture’s obligation to fund the Committed Equity Facility.Debt was secured by Chicago Venture’s 60% interest in Typenex Medical, LLC, an Illinois corporation, as provided for in the Membership Pledge Agreement attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
The Company’s obligation to repaypay the Debenture disclosed herein as well as the Debenture entered into by and between the Company and Purchaser on July 9, 2015, areDebt, or any portion thereof, is secured by security agreements, guaranty agreements and pledge agreements previously disclosed onall of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 16, 2015assets as described in Schedule A to the Security Agreement attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
Payment of All TCA Obligations
On January 10, 2017, Chicago Venture, at the Company’s instruction, remitted funds of $1,495,901 to TCA in order to satisfy all debts to TCA. On or around January 11, 2017, the Company was notified by TCA that $13,540 were due to TCA in order for TCA to release its security interest in the Company’s assets. On February 1, 2017, TCA notified the Company that all funds were received and TCA would release its security interest in Company’s assets. TCA has confirmed that it is paid in full and the Company is not aware of any other obligations that the Company has as to TCA. The funds received under the Chicago Venture Agreements and previous Chicago Venture Agreements were used to pay-off TCA.
Director Appointments
On February 14, 2017, the board appointed Katherine McClain and Mark E. Scott, our consulting Chief Financial Officer, to the Board of Directors.
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets
On March 10, 2017, the Audit Committee reviewed the GrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. operations and based on the capital intensive nature of the business and operating results, determined that the goodwill value of $739,000 and intangible assets of $137,056 were impaired as of December 31, 2016. The Company has additionally entered intorecorded an Authorization Agreement, dated August 6, 2015,impairment of goodwill and intangible assets associated with Purchaser whereby scheduled re-payments toGrowLife Hydroponics, Inc. of $876,056 during the Purchaser will be debited from the Company’s account according to the payment schedule of both the Debenture disclosed herein and the Debenture previously entered into on July 9, 2015.three months December 31, 2016.
Dissolution of Certain Non-Operating Subsidiaries
The Company determined that certain wholly-owned subsidiaries were unnecessary for the ongoing operations of the Company’s business and elected to dissolve these entities and/or surrender their foreign status in certain jurisdictions for the purpose of reducing unnecessary compliance costs.
The Company is dissolving SG Technologies Corp., a Nevada corporation, and is surrendering its qualification to do business in California due to the fact that the Company no longer operates any business under this wholly-owned subsidiary.
The Company is dissolving Phototron, Inc. and GrowLife Productions, Inc., all California corporations, due to the fact that the Company no longer operates any business under these wholly-owned subsidiaries.
The Company is dissolving Business Bloom, Inc., a California corporation, and is withdrawing its foreign entity status in Colorado due to the fact that the Company no longer operates any business under this wholly-owned subsidiary.
The Company is surrendering its qualification to do business in California for GrowLife Productions, Inc. due to the fact that the Company has moved its headquarters to Seattle, Washington and is no longer required to register as a foreign entity in California.
Enactment of Heightened Corporate Governance Measures Pursuant to Derivative Action Settlement
In connection with the settlement of the Derivative Actions related to alleged violations of federal securities laws, the Company agreed to expansive corporate governance measures.
During October 2015, the Company expects to enact heightened corporate governance measure pursuant to the Derivative Action Settlement.
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTINGoperates any business under this wholly-owned subsidiary.
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting asPotential Convertible Note Defaults
Several of the endCompany’s convertible promissory notes remain outstanding beyond their respective maturity dates. This may trigger an event of default under the period covered by this report based on the framework in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, our principal executive officerrespective agreements. The Company is working with these noteholders to convert their notes into common stock and principal financial officer concluded that our internal control over financial reporting were not effectiveintends to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of our financial statements for external purposes in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles.resolve these outstanding issues as soon as practicable.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 has not been audited by PMB Helin Donovan, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm.
| | | |
| | | |
/s/ Marco Hegyi | | /s/ Mark E. Scott | |
Marco Hegyi | | Mark E. Scott | |
President | | Chief Financial Officer | |
Seattle, WA
September 30, 2015
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, GrowLife, Inc. (the "Registrant") has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| | GROWLIFE, INC. |
| | | |
Date: September 30, 2015March 31, 2017 | By: | /s/ Marco Hegyi |
| | | Marco Hegyi |
| | | PresidentChief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal Executive Officer) |
| | | |
| | By: | /s/ Mark E. Scott |
| | | Mark Scott |
| | | Chief Financial Officer, Director and Secretary (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:
| SIGNATURES | TITLE | DATE |
| | | |
| /s/ Marco Hegyi | PresidentChief Executive Officer and Director | September 30, 2015March 31, 2017 |
| Marco Hegyi | (Principal Executive Officer) | |
| | | |
| /s/ Mark E. Scott | Chief Financial Officer, Director and Secretary | September 30, 2015March 31, 2017 |
| Mark E. Scott | (Principal Financial/Accounting Officer) | |
| | | |
/s/ Anthony Ciabattoni Michael E. Fasci | Director | September 30, 2015March 31, 2017 |
Anthony Ciabattoni | | |
| | |
/s/ Jeff Giarraputo | Director | September 30, 2015 |
Jeff Giarraputo | | |
| | |
| | |
| Michael E. Fasci | | |
| Director | March 31, 2017 |
| Katherine McLain | | |
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