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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

_______________________
FORM10-Q

________________________
(Mark One)

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended January 31, 2018

2023

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period fromto

Commission File Number001-35319

_______________________
mlnk-20230131_g1.jpg
Steel Connect, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

_______________________
Delaware
04-2921333


(State or other jurisdiction of


incorporation or organization)

04-2921333
(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

1601 Trapelo Road, Suite 170

Waltham, Massachusetts

02451
2000 Midway Ln
Smyrna, Tennessee
(Address of principal executive offices)
37167
(Zip Code)

(781)663-5000

(914) 461-1276
(Registrant’sRegistrant's telephone number, including area code)

ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc.

(Former name, or former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

_______________________
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par valueSTCNNasdaq Capital Market
Rights to Purchase Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock--Nasdaq Capital Market
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes      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 ofRegulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes      No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, anon-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large"large accelerated filer,” “accelerated" "accelerated filer,” “smaller" "smaller reporting company”company," and “emerging"emerging growth company”company" inRule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filerAccelerated filer
Non-accelerated filerSmaller reporting company
Non-accelerated filer☐  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes      No  


As of February 28, 2018,March 7, 2023, there were 60,205,94660,784,589 shares issued and outstanding of the registrant’sregistrant's Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share.



Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC.

FORM10-Q

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Number

Part I.

Item 1.

28

40

41

Item 5.

42

Part II.

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.

42

43

43

43

43

43

43


2


Table of Contents
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
3


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

(unaudited)

   January 31,
2018
  July 31,
2017
 
ASSETS   

Current assets:

   

Cash and cash equivalents

  $106,433  $110,670 

Trading securities

   —     11,898 

Accounts receivable, trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $75 and $616 at January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, respectively

   110,834   81,450 

Inventories, net

   45,211   34,369 

Funds held for clients

   13,074   13,454 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   17,204   6,005 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total current assets

   292,756   257,846 

Property and equipment, net

   105,411   18,555 

Goodwill

   259,085   —   

Other intangible assets, net

   206,819   —   

Other assets

   6,039   4,897 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total assets

  $870,110  $281,298 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 
LIABILITIES, CONTINGENTLY REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   

Current liabilities:

   

Accounts payable

  $85,010  $71,476 

Accrued restructuring

   112   186 

Accrued expenses

   74,671   37,898 

Funds held for clients

   13,074   13,454 

Current portion of long-term debt

   5,725   —   

Other current liabilities

   43,561   26,141 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

   222,153   149,155 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Notes payable

   62,062   59,758 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

   385,975   —   

Other long-term liabilities

   30,693   9,414 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Long-term liabilities

   478,730   69,172 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   700,883   218,327 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Contingently redeemable preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share. 35,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding shares at January 31, 2018; zero shares authorized, issued and outstanding shares at July 31, 2017 (Note 11)

   35,259   —   

Stockholders’ equity:

   

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share. Authorized 4,965,000 and 5,000,000 shares at January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, respectively; zero issued and outstanding shares at January 31, 2018 and at July 31, 2017

   —     —   

Common stock, $0.01 par value per share. Authorized 1,400,000,000 shares; 60,205,946 issued and outstanding shares at January 31, 2018; 55,555,973 issued and outstanding shares at July 31, 2017

   603   556 

Additionalpaid-in capital

   7,464,451   7,457,051 

Accumulated deficit

   (7,339,367  (7,398,949

Accumulated other comprehensive income

   8,281   4,313 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity

   133,968   62,971 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total liabilities, contingently redeemable preferred stock and stockholders’ equity

  $870,110  $281,298 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents$62,427 $53,142 
Accounts receivable, trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,008 and $44 at January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022, respectively37,180 40,083 
Inventories, net8,916 8,151 
Funds held for clients4,354 4,903 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets5,223 3,551 
Total current assets118,100 109,830 
Property and equipment, net3,493 3,534 
Operating lease right-of-use assets30,538 19,655 
Other assets3,981 4,730 
Total assets$156,112 $137,749 
LIABILITIES, CONTINGENTLY REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT
Accounts payable$32,805 $30,553 
Accrued expenses25,632 28,396 
Funds held for clients4,323 4,903 
Current lease obligations7,665 6,466 
Other current liabilities15,031 13,482 
Total current liabilities85,456 83,800 
Convertible note payable12,104 11,047 
Long-term lease obligations22,904 12,945 
Other long-term liabilities5,222 3,983 
Total long-term liabilities40,230 27,975 
Total liabilities125,686 111,775 
Contingently redeemable preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share. 35,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding at January 31, 2023 and July 31, 202235,180 35,180 
Stockholders' deficit:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share. 4,965,000 shares authorized at January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022; zero shares issued and outstanding at January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022— — 
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share. Authorized 1,400,000,000 shares; 60,784,589 issued and outstanding shares at January 31, 2023; 60,529,558 issued and outstanding shares at July 31, 2022607 605 
Additional paid-in capital7,479,719 7,479,366 
Accumulated deficit(7,489,960)(7,493,317)
Accumulated other comprehensive income4,880 4,140 
Total stockholders' deficit(4,754)(9,206)
Total liabilities, contingently redeemable preferred stock and stockholders' deficit$156,112 $137,749 
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

4


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

(unaudited)

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
  Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018  2017  2018  2017 

Net revenue

  $151,119  $117,568  $253,641  $238,895 

Cost of revenue

   134,169   106,370   227,617   218,364 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Gross profit

   16,950   11,198   26,024   20,531 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Operating expenses

     

Selling, general and administrative

   30,107   11,926   42,974   25,527 

Amortization of intangible assets

   4,107   —     4,107   —   

Gain on sale of property

   (12,692  —     (12,692  —   

Restructuring, net

   4   776   41   2,150 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

   21,526   12,702   34,430   27,677 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Operating loss

   (4,576  (1,504  (8,406  (7,146
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Other income (expense):

     

Interest income

   92   15   256   180 

Interest expense

   (6,575  (2,109  (8,682  (4,138

Other gains (losses), net

   (1,716  1,019   (294  531 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Total other income (expense)

   (8,199  (1,075  (8,720  (3,427
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Loss before income taxes

   (12,775  (2,579  (17,126  (10,573

Income tax expense (benefit)

   (77,664  723   (76,577  1,772 

Gains on investments in affiliates, net of tax

   (200  (396  (401  (896
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   65,089   (2,906  59,852   (11,449

Less: Preferred dividends on redeemable preferred stock

   (259  —     (259  —   
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

  $64,830  $(2,906 $59,593  $(11,449
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Basic net earning (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders:

  $1.11  $(0.05 $1.05  $(0.21

Diluted net earning (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders:

  $0.85  $(0.05 $0.87  $(0.21

Weighted average common shares used in:

     

Basic earnings per share

   58,341   55,083   56,776   55,031 

Diluted earnings per share

   79,083   55,083   72,883   55,031 

Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
Net revenue$50,781 $54,322 $102,140 $98,676 
Cost of revenue37,719 43,421 74,813 78,369 
Gross profit13,062 10,901 27,327 20,307 
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative10,459 9,994 20,845 18,829 
Restructuring— 856 — 856 
Total operating expenses10,459 10,850 20,845 19,685 
Operating income2,603 51 6,482 622 
Other income (expense):
Interest income332 476 
Interest expense(848)(750)(1,674)(1,512)
Other losses, net(2,959)(65)(74)(546)
Total other expense, net(3,475)(814)(1,272)(2,053)
(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes(872)(763)5,210 (1,431)
Income tax (benefit) expense(346)723 779 1,038 
Net (loss) income from continuing operations(526)(1,486)4,431 (2,469)
Net loss from discontinued operations— (21,491)— (40,002)
Net (loss) income(526)(22,977)4,431 (42,471)
Less: Preferred dividends on redeemable preferred stock(537)(537)(1,074)(1,074)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(1,063)$(23,514)$3,357 $(43,545)
Net (loss) income per common shares - basic
Continuing operations$(0.02)$(0.03)$0.06 $(0.06)
Discontinued operations— (0.36)— (0.67)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(0.02)$(0.39)$0.06 $(0.73)
Net (loss) income per common shares - diluted
Continuing operations$(0.02)$(0.03)$0.06 $(0.06)
Discontinued operations— (0.36)— (0.67)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(0.02)$(0.39)$0.06 $(0.73)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic60,17859,74860,12960,027
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - diluted60,17859,74860,63760,027
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

5


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
  Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017  2018   2017 

Net income (loss)

  $65,089   $(2,906 $59,852   $(11,449

Other comprehensive income (loss):

       

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   3,654    (734  3,926    (2,003

Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities, net of tax

   29    (10  16    —   

Pension liability adjustments, net of tax

   —      353   26    750 
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

   3,683    (391  3,968    (1,253
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

  $68,772   $(3,297 $63,820   $(12,702
  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
Net (loss) income$(526)$(22,977)$4,431 $(42,471)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment4,655 (13)1,818 185 
Pension liability adjustments, net of tax— — (1,078)— 
Other comprehensive income (loss)4,655 (13)740 185 
Comprehensive income (loss)$4,129 $(22,990)$5,171 $(42,286)
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

6


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

STOCKHOLDERS' (DEFICIT) EQUITY

(in thousands)

thousands, except share amounts)

(unaudited)

   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018  2017 

Cash flows from operating activities:

   

Net income (loss)

  $59,852  $(11,449

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:

   

Depreciation

   5,656   4,090 

Amortization of intangible assets

   4,107   —   

Amortization of deferred financing costs

   392   281 

Accretion of debt discount

   2,117   1,940 

Share-based compensation

   7,397   381 

Non-cash (gains) losses, net

   (12,398  (531

Gains on investments in affiliates

   (401  (896

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of business acquired:

   

Accounts receivable, net

   20,388   5,169 

Inventories, net

   17,659   2,349 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   (1,535  1,330 

Accounts payable, accrued restructuring and accrued expenses

   (15,422  (19,358

Refundable and accrued income taxes, net

   3,767   (372

Deferred tax assets and liabilities

   (79,918  —   

Other assets and liabilities

   (6,279  (35
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

   5,382   (17,101
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

   

Payments to acquire business

   (469,221  —   

Additions to property and equipment

   (9,303  (3,301

Proceeds from the disposition of property and equipment

   20,589   —   

Proceeds from the sale of Trading Securities

   13,775   5,832 

Proceeds from investments in affiliates

   401   896 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

   (443,759  3,427 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

   

Proceeds from long-term debt

   393,000   —   

Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock

   35,000   —   

Proceeds from revolving line of credit

   6,000   —   

Payment of deferred financing costs

   (1,334  —   

Purchase of the Company’s Convertible Notes

   —     (1,763

Repayments on capital lease obligations

   (77  (126

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

   3   12 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

   432,592   (1,877
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

   1,548   (905
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

   (4,237  (16,456

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

   110,670   130,790 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $106,433  $114,334 
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Number of
Shares
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
Total
Stockholders'
Deficit
Balance at October 31, 202260,657,539 $606 $7,479,542 $(7,488,897)$225 $(8,524)
Net loss— — — (526)— (526)
Preferred dividends— — — (537)— (537)
Restricted stock grants127,050 (1)— — — 
Share-based compensation— — 178 — — 178 
Other comprehensive items— — — — 4,655 4,655 
Balance at January 31, 202360,784,589 $607 $7,479,719 $(7,489,960)$4,880 $(4,754)
Number of
Shares
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
Total
Stockholders'
Deficit
Balance at October 31, 202160,437,654 $605 $7,478,855 $(7,500,251)$7,360 $(13,431)
Net loss— — — (22,977)— (22,977)
Preferred dividends— — — (537)— (537)
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock purchase plan331 — — — — — 
Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures19,735 — — — — — 
Share-based compensation— — 218 — — 218 
Other comprehensive items— — — — (13)(13)
Balance at January 31, 202260,457,720 $605 $7,479,073 $(7,523,765)$7,347 $(36,740)
7


Table of Contents
Number of
Shares
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
Total
Stockholders'
Deficit
Balance at July 31, 202260,529,558 $605 $7,479,366 $(7,493,317)$4,140 $(9,206)
Net income— — — 4,431 — 4,431 
Preferred dividends— — — (1,074)— (1,074)
Restricted stock grants255,031 (2)— — — 
Share-based compensation— — 355 — — 355 
Other comprehensive items— — — — 740 740 
Balance at January 31, 202360,784,589 $607 $7,479,719 $(7,489,960)$4,880 $(4,754)
Number of
Shares
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
Total
Stockholders'
Equity (Deficit)
Balance at July 31, 202163,099,496 $632 $7,478,638 $(7,480,220)$7,162 $6,212 
Net loss— — — (42,471)— (42,471)
Preferred dividends— — — (1,074)— (1,074)
Issuance of common stock pursuant to employee stock purchase plan499 — — — — — 
Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures(2,642,275)(27)27 — — — 
Share-based compensation— — 408 — — 408 
Other comprehensive items— — — — 185 185 
Balance at January 31, 202260,457,720 $605 $7,479,073 $(7,523,765)$7,347 $(36,740)
See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

8


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
Six Months Ended
January 31,
20232022
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)$4,431 $(42,471)
Less: Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax(40,002)
Income (loss) from continuing operations4,431(2,469)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation924 1,175 
Amortization of deferred financing costs24 68 
Accretion of debt discount1,056 800 
Share-based compensation355 408 
Non-cash lease expense4,488 4,720 
Bad debt expense (recovery)964 (3)
Other losses, net74 759 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net2,734 (6,665)
Inventories, net(493)(1,661)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(1,536)(476)
Accounts payable, accrued restructuring and accrued expenses(1,016)5,633 
Refundable and accrued income taxes, net(845)(319)
Other assets and liabilities(1,572)(4,692)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities9,588 (2,722)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions of property and equipment(866)(826)
Proceeds from the disposition of property and equipment16 — 
Net cash used in investing activities(850)(826)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Preferred dividend payments(1,074)(1,074)
Repayments on capital lease obligations(38)(36)
Net cash used in financing activities(1,112)(1,110)
Net effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash1,110 (395)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash8,736 (5,053)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period58,045 66,329 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period$66,781 $61,276 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$62,427 $55,641 
Restricted cash for funds held for clients, end of period4,354 5,635 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period$66,781 $61,276 
Cash flows from discontinued operations:
Operating activities$— $(20,446)
Investing activities— (6,363)
Financing activities— (3,000)
Net cash used in discontinued operations$— $(29,809)
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See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
10


Table of Contents
STEEL CONNECT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1)NATURE OF OPERATIONS

Steel Connect, Inc. (“Steel Connect”(the "Company" or the” Company”the "Parent") together with its consolidated subsidiaries,, is a holding company which operates through its wholly owned subsidiaries,wholly-owned subsidiary ModusLink Corporation and ModusLink PTS, Inc. (together “ModusLink”), and IWCO Direct Holdings, Inc. (“IWCO”("ModusLink" or “IWCO Direct”"Supply Chain"). The Company was formerly known as ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc. until it changed its name to Steel Connect, Inc. effective February 27, 2018.


ModusLink is a leader in global supply chain business process management company serving clients in markets such as consumer electronics, communications, computing, medical devices, software and retail. The CompanyModusLink designs and executes critical elements in its clients’clients' global supply chains to improve speed to market, product customization, flexibility, cost, quality and service. These benefits are delivered through a combination of industry expertise, innovative service solutions, and integrated operations, proven business processes, expansive global footprint and world-class technology. The CompanyModusLink also produces and licenses an entitlement management solution powered by its enterprise-class Poetic software, which offers a complete solution for activation, provisioning, entitlement subscription and data collection from physical goods (connected products) and digital products.


Disposition of IWCO Direct

On February 25, 2022 (the "Disposal Date"), the Company entered into a transaction agreement (the “Transaction Agreement”) with (a) IWCO Direct Holding Inc. (''IWCO Direct" or "Direct Marketing") and its indirect subsidiaries, (b) Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, in its capacities as collateral agent and administrative agent under a financing agreement (in such capacities, the “Agent”), dated as of December 15, 2017, between IWCO Direct, IWCO Direct’s direct and indirect subsidiaries, the Agent and the lenders party thereto (the “Lenders”) (the “Financing Agreement”), (c) the Lenders, (d) the Lenders or their respective designees listed on the signature pages to the Transaction Agreement under the caption “Participating Lender Purchasers” (the “Participating Lender Purchasers”), (e) SPH Group Holdings LLC (the “Sponsor”) and (f) Instant Web Holdings, LLC (the “Buyer”), an entity owned by the Participating Lender Purchasers. On the Effective Date (as defined in the Transaction Agreement) and pursuant to the terms of the Transaction Agreement, the Company transferred all of its interests in IWCO Direct to the Buyer as part of a negotiated restructuring of the capital structure and certain financial obligations of IWCO Direct under the Financing Agreement as contemplated by the Transaction Agreement. The results of operations of the IWCO Direct business are reported as discontinued operations for the prior year period presented. See Note 4 - "Discontinued Operations" for additional information.

All references made to financial data in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are to the Company's continuing operations, unless otherwise specifically noted.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Historically, the Parent financed its operations and met its capital requirements primarily through funds generated from operations, the sale of its securities, borrowings from lending institutions and sales of facilities that were not fully utilized. The Parent believes it has access to adequate resources to meet its needs for normal operating costs, capital expenditures, debt obligations and working capital for at least the next twelve months. Upon a redemption request by the holder of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock (as discussed in Note 16 - "Related Party Transactions" and in the Company's Fiscal Year 2022 Form 10-K filed), the Parent believes it is probable that it has access to adequate resources, including cash on hand and potential dividends from ModusLink, to pay the redemption price and continue its operations.

As of January 31, 2023, these resources include cash and cash equivalents and ModusLink's credit agreement with Umpqua Bank (the “Umpqua Revolver”), as lender and as agent. The Umpqua Revolver provides for a maximum credit commitment of $12.5 million and a sublimit of $5.0 million for letters of credit and expires on March 16, 2024. There was no balance outstanding on the Umpqua Revolver as of January 31, 2023. See Note 9 - "Debt" for further details regarding the Umpqua Revolver.

ModusLink believes that if dividends to the Parent are required, it would have access to adequate resources to meet its operating needs while remaining in compliance with the Umpqua Revolver's covenants over the next twelve months. However, there can be no assurances that ModusLink will continue to have access to its line of credit under the Umpqua Revolver if its financial performance does not satisfy the financial covenants set forth in its financing agreement, which could also result in the acceleration of its debt obligations by its lender, adversely affecting liquidity.

As of January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $62.4 million and $53.1 million, respectively. As of January 31, 2023, the Company had excess working capital of $32.6 million.

COVID-19 Update

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The COVID-19 pandemic (in particular, the emergence of new variants of the virus across the globe) has an integrated networkcaused, and may continue to cause, significant disruptions in the U.S. and global economies. Measures taken by national and local governments in the United States and around the world restricted, and in certain jurisdictions continue to restrict, individuals’ daily activities and curtail or cease many businesses’ normal operations. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted, and may further adversely impact, nearly all aspects of strategically locatedour business and markets, including our workforce and the operations of our clients, suppliers, and business partners.

We experienced disruptions to our business continuity as a result of temporary closures of certain of ModusLink’s facilities with 20 sites operating in 21 languages2020 and 2021; however, these temporary closures did not have a significant impact on ModusLink’s operations.

Outbreaks in various countries,Mainland China throughout 2022 (March to May, July and September to October) led to temporary lockdown orders impacting several ModusLink facilities in China; however, ModusLink was able to resume operations at all facilities and the lockdowns have not had a significant impact to ModusLink’s operations through the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. If the situation continues at this level or worsens, however, it could result in a potential adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We continue to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 and other disease outbreaks on all aspects of our business and geographies, including numerous sites throughout North America, Europeits impact on our clients, employees, suppliers, vendors, business partners and Asia.distribution channels. We believe that such impacts could include the continued disruption to the demand for our businesses' products and services; disruptions in or closures of our business operations or those of our customers or suppliers; the impact of the global business and economic environment on liquidity and the availability of capital; increased costs and delays in payments of outstanding receivables beyond normal payment terms; supply chain disruptions; uncertain demand; and the effect of any initiatives or programs that we may undertake to address financial and operational challenges faced by our customers. Despite indications of economic recovery, the severity of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s business in the future is difficult to predict and will depend on a number of uncertain factors and trends. Such factors and trends include, but are not limited to: the emergence of new variant strains; the widespread use of vaccines; the impact of the global business and economic environment on liquidity and the availability of capital; the extent and severity of the impact on our customers and suppliers; and U.S. and foreign government actions that have been taken, or may be taken in the future, to mitigate adverse economic or other impacts or to mitigate the spread of the virus and its variants. The Company previously operatedcontinues to monitor for any developments or updates to COVID-19 guidelines from public health and governmental authorities, as well as the protection of the health and safety of its personnel, and is continuously working to ensure that its health and safety protocols, business continuity plans and crisis management protocols are in place to help mitigate any negative impacts of COVID-19 and other disease outbreaks on the Company’s employees, business or operations.

Terminated Merger with Steel Holdings

On June 12, 2022, the Company, Steel Partners Holdings L.P. (“Steel Holdings”) and SP Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Steel Holdings (“Merger Sub”), entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which Merger Sub would merge with and into the Company (the “Merger”), with the Company surviving the Merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Steel Holdings. The Merger Agreement provided that each share of the Company’s common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger (other than dissenting shares and shares owned by the Company, Steel Holdings or any of their respective subsidiaries) would, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, be converted into the right to receive (i) $1.35 in cash, without interest and (ii) one contingent value right to receive a pro rata share of the proceeds received by the Company, Steel Holdings or any of their affiliates with respect to the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or any portion of the assets currently owned by ModusLink within two years of the Merger’s closing date, to the extent such proceeds exceed $80.0 million plus certain related costs and expenses.

Steel Holdings and certain of its affiliates also entered into a Voting and Support Agreement, dated as of June 12, 2022 (the “Voting and Support Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, they agreed to vote all shares of common stock and Series C Convertible Preferred Stock beneficially owned by them in favor of the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the Merger and any alternative acquisition agreement approved by the Company's Board of Directors (acting on the recommendation of the special committee (the “Special Committee”) of independent and disinterested directors formed to consider and negotiate the terms and conditions of the Merger and to make a recommendation to our Board of Directors).

Our Board of Directors, acting on the unanimous recommendation of the Special Committee, and the Board of Directors of Steel Partner Holdings GP Inc., the general partner of Steel Holdings, approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement (such transactions, collectively, the “Transactions”) and resolved to recommend the stockholders adopt the Merger Agreement and approve the Transactions. The Special Committee, which is comprised solely of independent and disinterested directors of the Company who are unaffiliated with Steel Holdings, exclusively negotiated the terms of the Merger Agreement with Steel Holdings, with the assistance of its independent financial and legal advisors.

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On November 15, 2022, Steel Holdings terminated the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement was terminated following the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company at which the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement was (a) approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of (i) a majority of the outstanding shares of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company and (ii) a majority in voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock and Series C Convertible Preferred Stock (voting on an as converted to shares of common stock basis), voting together as a single class, but (b) not approved by a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock not owned, directly or indirectly, by Steel Holdings, and Merger Sub, any other officer or director of the Company or any other person having any equity interest in, or any right to acquire any equity interest in, Merger Sub or any person of which Merger Sub is a direct or indirect subsidiary as required under the names ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc., CMGI, Inc. and CMG Information Services, Inc. and was incorporated in Delaware in 1986.

IWCO Direct delivers highly-effective data-driven marketing solutions for its customers, which represent someMerger Agreement.


As a result of the largest and most respected brands in the world. Its full range of services includes strategy, creative and production for multichannel marketing campaigns, along with onetermination of the industry’s most sophisticated postal logistics programs for direct mail. ThroughMerger Agreement, the Voting and Support Agreement, dated as of June 12, 2022, by and among the Company, Steel Holdings and certain of its Mail-Gard® product, IWCO Direct also offers business continuity and disaster recovery servicesaffiliates, automatically terminated pursuant to protect against unexpected business interruptions, along with providing print and mail outsourcing services. Their solutions enable customers to improve Customer Lifetime Value (CLV), which in turn, has led to and longer customer relationships.

IWCO has administrative offices in Chanhassen, MN. and has three facilities in Chanhassen MN., one facility in Little Falls, MN., one facility in Warminster, PA. and two facilities in Hamburg PA.

its terms.

(2)BASIS OF PRESENTATION


The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the Company in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“("U.S. GAAP”GAAP") for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form10-Q and Article 10 of RegulationS-X. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of a normal recurring nature) considered necessary for fair presentation have been included. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and related notes for the year ended July 31, 2017,2022 (Fiscal Year 2022), which are contained in the Company’s Annual Report onCompany's Form10-K filed with for the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on October 16, 2017.Fiscal Year 2022. The results for the three and six months ended January 31, 20182023 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year. Theyear-end condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited consolidated financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

U.S. GAAP.

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the issuance of financial statements to provide additional evidence relative to certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosure. For the periodsix months ended January 31, 2018,2023, the Company evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through the date these financial statements were filed.

Please refer to Note 18 - "Subsequent Events" for further details.

Reclassification
On the statement of cash flows for the six months ended January 31, 2022, the Company reclassified bad debt recovery as a non-cash adjustment to net loss which totaled $3.0 thousand from Accounts receivable, net to Bad debt recovery. This reclassification was made to prior year balances to conform with current reporting and had no impact on net loss or stockholder's deficit.
(3)RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Accounting Standards Issued and Not Yet Implemented

In May 2014,June 2016, the FASBFinancial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASUNo. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with CustomersAccounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 606)326): Measurement of Credit Loses on Financial Instruments, which supersedes the revenuean ASU that requires measurement and recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU isof expected credit losses for financial instruments, including trade receivables, based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be

entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The effective date will be the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 using one of two retrospective application methods or a cumulative effect approach. The Company and its outside consultants have initiated the process of evaluating the potential effects on the consolidated financial statements.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2014-15 Presentation of Financial Statements—Going Concern (Subtopic205-40), which amends the accounting guidance related to the evaluation of an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The amendment establishes management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern in connection with preparing financial statements for each annual and interim reporting period. The update also gives guidance to determine whether to disclose information about relevanthistorical experience, current conditions, and events when there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company adopted this guidance asreasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. Its adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In November 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-16, Derivatives and Hedging—Determining Whether the Host Contract in a Hybrid Financial Instrument Issued in the Form of a Share Is More Akin to Debt or to Equity, which addresses the significant diversity in practice in the assessment of preferred stock and other hybrid equity instruments. ASU 2014-16 mandates the use of the whole-instrument approach and provides guidance to aid in the qualitative analysis when using the whole-instrument approach.reported amount. The Company adopted this guidance as of the second quarter of fiscal year 2018. Its adoption did not have an effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330), which provides guidance related to inventory measurement. The new standard requires entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value thereby simplifying the current guidance under which an entity must measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. The Company adopted this guidance beginning the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. The adoption of the guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2016-02, Leases, which requires lessees to put most leases on their balance sheets but recognize expenses on their income statements in a manner similar to today’s accounting. This ASU will be effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2020.ending July 31, 2024 on a modified retrospective basis, which requires a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. The Company is currently evaluating the effect thethis guidance will have on the Company’s financial statement disclosures, results of operations and financial position.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net). The amendments in this update relate to when another party, along with the Company, are involved in providing a good or service to a customer and are intended to improve the operability and understandability of the implementation guidance on principal versus agent. Revenue recognition guidance requires companies to determine whether the nature of its promise is to provide that good or service to the customer (i.e., the Company is a principal) or to arrange for the good or service to be provided to the customer by the other party (i.e., the Company is an agent). This ASU will be effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. The Company and its outside consultants have initiated the process of evaluating the potential effects on the consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. Several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions are simplified, including: (a) income tax consequences; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. The Company retrospectively adopted this guidance during the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 by utilizing the modified retrospective transition method. The adoption of this ASU did not materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2016-18, Restricted Cash. When cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents are presented in more than one line item on the balance sheet, the new guidance requires a reconciliation of the totals in the statement of cash flows to the related captions in the balance sheet. Entities will also have to disclose the nature of their restricted cash and restricted cash equivalent balances, which is similar to what is required today for SEC Registrants. This ASU will be effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. The Company is currently in the process of assessing what impact this new standardit may have on its consolidated financial statements but does not believe that implementing this standard will have a significant impact on the Company’s current presentation and disclosures.

statements.

In March 2017,August 2020, the FASB issued ASUNo. 2017-07, Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715), which 2020-06, Debt-Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging-Contracts in Entity's Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40). The amendment in this update simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments by reducing the number of accounting models available for convertible debt instruments and convertible preferred stock. This update also amends the guidance for the derivatives scope exception for contracts in an entity's own equity to reduce form-over-substance-based accounting conclusions and requires that the service cost componentapplication of net periodic pensionthe if-converted method for calculating diluted earnings per share. The update also requires entities to provide expanded disclosures about the terms and postretirement benefit cost be presentedfeatures of convertible instruments, how the instruments have been reported in the same line item as other employee compensation costs, whileentity's financial statements and information about events, conditions and circumstances that can affect the other components be presented separately asnon-operating income (expense). This ASU will beassessment of the amount or timing of an entity's future
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cash flows related to those instruments. The guidance is effective for the Companyinterim and annual periods beginning in the first quarter ofour fiscal year 2019.ending July 31, 2025, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently inevaluating this guidance to determine the process of assessing what impact this new standardit may have on its consolidated financial statements.

(4) INVENTORIES

Inventories

In November 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832): Disclosures by Business Entities about Government Assistance. The ASU requires annual disclosures about transactions with a government that are stated ataccounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting model by analogy. This guidance is effective for all entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating this guidance to determine the lowerimpact it may have on its consolidated financial statements.
Other new pronouncements issued but not effective until after January 31, 2023 are not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition, results of costoperations or net realizable value. Cost is determined by both the moving average and thefirst-in,first-out methods. Materials thatliquidity.
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(4)DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

As discussed in Note 1 - "Nature of Operations", on February 25, 2022, the Company typically procures on behalfcompleted the disposition of its clients that are included in inventory include materials suchIWCO Direct. The Company received no cash consideration for the disposition (the entire transaction being referred to as compact discs, printed materials, manuals, labels, hardware accessories, hard disk drives, phone chassis, consumer packaging, shipping boxes and labels, power cords and cables for client-owned electronic devices.

Inventories consistedthe “IWCO Direct Disposal”). As of the following:

   January 31,
2018
   July 31,
2017
 
   (In thousands) 

Raw materials

  $25,055   $24,129 

Work-in-process

   15,448    713 

Finished goods

   4,708    9,527 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $45,211   $34,369 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Disposal Date and subject to the terms and conditions of the Transaction Agreement, the parties entered into certain mutual releases as fully set forth in the Transaction Agreement. In addition, as part of the overall transaction, the Buyer issued a note in the principal amount of $6.9 million payable to the Company as consideration for intercompany obligations owed by IWCO Direct to the Company (the “Subordinated Note”). The Subordinated Note is subordinated to the obligations under the Financing Agreement (including any amendments or other modifications thereto) and matures on the date that is the earlier of (a) the later of (i) August 25, 2027 and (ii) the date that is six months after the maturity of the Financing Agreement, or (b) the date that is six months after repayment in full of the obligations under the Financing Agreement. Due to the subordinated nature of the Subordinated Note and the assessment of collectability, the Company determined the fair value of the Subordinated Note was zero.


The Company continuously monitors inventory balances and records inventory provisions for any excess of the cost of the inventory over its estimated net realizable value. The Company also monitors inventory balances for obsolescence and excess quantities as compared to projected demands. The Company’s inventory methodology is based on assumptions about average shelf life of inventory, forecasted volumes, forecasted selling prices, contractual provisions with its clients, write-down history of inventory and market conditions. While such assumptions may change from period to period, in determining the net realizable value of its inventories, the Company uses the best information availabledeconsolidated IWCO Direct as of the balance sheet date. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected, orDisposal Date as the Company experiencesno longer held a higher incidencecontrolling financial interest in IWCO Direct as of inventory obsolescence because of rapidly changing technology and client requirements, additional inventory provisions may be required. Once established, write-downs of inventory are considered permanent adjustments to the cost basis of inventory and cannot be reversed due to subsequent increases in demand forecasts. Accordingly, if inventory previously written down to its net realizable value is subsequently sold, gross profit margins may be favorably impacted.

IWCO’s inventory consists primarily of raw materials (paper) used to produce direct mail packages andwork-in-process. Finished goods are generally not a significant element of the inventory as they are mailed immediately after the production and sorting process. With the acquisition of IWCO the Company recorded a fair value“step-up” towork-in-process inventory of $7.0 million as a part of purchase accounting, which was recognized as anon-cash charge to cost of revenues during the three months ended January 31, 2018 as the inventory had been sold by the end of the period.

(5) INVESTMENTS

Trading securities

During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company received $13.8 million in proceeds associated with the sale of publicly traded securities (“Trading Securities”), which included a cash gain of $4.6 million. During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recognized $2.7 million in netnon-cash net losses associated with its Trading Securities.

During the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company received $4.9 million in proceeds associated with the sale of publicly traded securities (“Trading Securities”), which included a $0.6 million cash gain. During the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company recognized $0.4 million in netnon-cash net gains associated with its Trading Securities. During the six months ended January 31, 2017, the Company received $5.8 million in proceeds associated with the sale of Trading Securities, which included a $0.6 million cash gain. During the six months ended January 31, 2017, the Company recognized $0.5 million in netnon-cash net losses associated with its Trading Securities. These gains and losses were recorded as a component of Other gains (losses), net on the Statements of Operations.

As of January 31, 2018, thethat date. The Company did not have any investmentsamounts included in Trading Securities. Asaccumulated other comprehensive loss associated with IWCO Direct at the time of July 31, 2017,deconsolidation. The disposal of IWCO Direct represents a strategic shift to exit the Company had $11.9 million in investments in Trading Securities.

(6) OTHER CURRENT AND LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

direct marketing business and its results are reported as discontinued operations for the prior year periods presented.


A summary of the results of the discontinued operations is as follows:

Three months ended January 31,Six months ended January 31,
20222022
Net revenue$66,316 $147,375 
Cost of revenue63,617138,802
Gross profit2,6998,573
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative12,52325,355
Amortization of intangible assets3,9038,085
Restructuring535873
Total operating expenses16,96134,313
Operating loss(14,262)(25,740)
Other expense:
Interest expense(7,229)(14,262)
Total other expense, net(7,229)(14,262)
Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes(21,491)(40,002)
Income tax expense
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax$(21,491)$(40,002)
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(5)INVENTORIES, NET

The following table reflectsbelow presents the components of “Accrued expenses”Inventories, net:
January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(In thousands)
Raw materials$7,965 $7,330 
Work-in-process145 124 
Finished goods806 697 
$8,916 $8,151 
(6)ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
The following tables reflect the components of "Accrued expenses" and “Other"Other current liabilities”liabilities":

   January 31,
2018
   July 31,
2017
 
   (In thousands) 

Accrued taxes

  $5,215   $2,272 

Accrued compensation

   30,638    10,678 

Accrued interest

   4,190    1,366 

Accrued audit, tax and legal

   2,693    2,759 

Accrued contract labor

   1,538    1,632 

Accrued worker’s compensation

   6,347    —   

Accrued other

   24,050    19,191 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $74,671   $37,898 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

   January 31,
2018
   July 31,
2017
 
   (In thousands) 

Accrued pricing liabilities

  $18,882   $18,882 

Line of credit liability

   6,000    —   

Customer postage deposits

   10,457    —   

Other

   8,222    7,259 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $43,561   $26,141 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
Accrued Expenses(In thousands)
Accrued compensation$5,983 $5,099 
Accrued audit, tax and legal4,298 4,564 
Accrued price concessions2,884 4,539 
Accrued taxes2,847 3,344 
Accrued occupancy costs1,655 1,671 
Accrued freight796 782 
Accrued IT costs683 1,108 
Accrued interest476 476 
Accrued contract labor399 792 
Accrued other5,611 6,021 
Total accrued expenses$25,632 $28,396 

January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
Other Current Liabilities(In thousands)
Accrued pricing liabilities$9,435 $9,435 
Deferred revenue - current3,489 2,705 
Other2,107 1,342 
Total other current liabilities$15,031 $13,482 
As of both January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, the Company had accrued pricing liabilities of approximately $18.9 million for both periods.$9.4 million. As previously reported by the Company, several principal adjustments were made to its historic financial statements for periods endingended on or before January 31, 2012, the most significant of which related to the treatment of vendor rebates in its pricing policies. Where the retention of a rebate or amark-up was determined to have been inconsistent with a client contract, (collectively referred to as “pricing adjustments”), the Company concluded that these amounts were not properly recorded as revenue. Accordingly, revenue was reduced by an equivalent amount for the period that the rebate was estimated to have been affected. A corresponding liability for the same amount was recorded in that period (referred to as accrued pricing liabilities). The Company believes that it may not ultimately be required to pay all or any of the accrued pricing liabilities based upon the expiration of statutes of limitations, and due in part to the nature of the interactions with its clients. The remaining accrued pricing liabilities atas of January 31, 20182023 will be derecognized when there is sufficient information for the Company to conclude that such liabilities are not subject to escheatment and have been extinguished, which may occur through payment, legal release, or other legal or factual determination.

In connection with the acquisition of IWCO the The Company performed an analysis of the liability associated with IWCO’s sales tax. Based on the information currently available, a reserve of $18.0 million was recorded on IWCO’s opening balance sheet. This reservehas not provided for any provision for interest and or penalties related to escheatment as it has concluded that such is subject to review during the measurement period and may be adjusted accordingly. As of January 31, 2018, other long-term liabilities includes sales tax liabilities of approximately $18.0 million as based on the process and evaluation the associated payments are not expectedprobable to occur, within the next twelve months.

and any potential interest and penalties cannot be reasonably estimated.

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(7) RESTRUCTURING NET


ModusLink Restructuring and other costs for the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 primarily included continuing charges for personnel reductions and facility consolidations in an effort to streamline operations across our global supply chain operations. It is expected that the payments of employee-related charges will be substantially completed duringActivities

During the fiscal year ended July 31, 2018.2021, ModusLink implemented a strategic plan to reorganize its sales function and the e-Business operations. The remaining contractual obligationsrestructuring charges associated with this plan were primarily relatecomposed of employee termination costs. In November 2021, ModusLink amended its strategic plan to facility lease obligationsinclude reorganizing its supply chain operations and recorded a restructuring charge of approximately $0.9 million during the three months ended January 31, 2022. In July 2022, ModusLink reorganized its supply chain operations in Ireland and recorded a restructuring charge of approximately $0.6 million during the three months ended July 31, 2022, which reduced the restructuring liability at January 31, 2023. The restructuring charges recorded in fiscal year ended July 31, 2022 were primarily composed of employee termination costs.

The table below summarizes restructuring charges in the statements of operations for vacant space resulting fromemployee termination costs:
Three months ended January 31,Six months ended January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Cost of revenue$— $646 $— $646 
Selling, general and administrative— 210 — 210 
$— $856 $— $856 


Changes to the previous restructuring activities of the Company. The Company anticipates that these contractual obligations will be substantially fulfilled by the end of December 2018.

The Company recorded an immaterial restructuring chargeliability during the six months ended January 31, 2018. 2023 were as follows:

(in thousands)
Balance as of July 31, 2022$892 
Costs incurred— 
Cash payments(722)
Non-cash relief of accrual— 
Change in estimates(2)
Balance as of January 31, 2023$168 

The $0.8 million restructuring charge recorded during the three months ended January 31, 2017 primarily consisted of $0.2 million, $0.3 million $0.1 million and $0.1 million of employee-related costs in the Americas, Asia, Europe ande-Business, respectively, related to the workforce reduction of 18 employees in our global supply chain operations. Of this amount, $0.1 million related to contractual obligations. The $1.4 million restructuring charge recorded during the three months ended October 31, 2016 primarily consisted of $0.2 million, $0.4 million and $0.5 million of employee-related costs in the Americas, Asia and Europe, respectively, related to the workforce reduction of 50 employees in our global supply chain. Of this amount, $0.3 million related to contractual obligations.

The following tables summarize the activities related to the restructuring accrual by expense category and by reportable segment for the six months ended January 31, 2018:

   Employee
Related
Expenses
   Contractual
Obligations
   Total 
   (In thousands) 

Accrued restructuring balance at July 31, 2017

  $100   $86   $186 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Restructuring adjustments

   19    22    41 

Cash paid

   (12   (108   (120

Non-cash adjustments

   5    —      5 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accrued restructuring balance at January 31, 2018

  $112   $—     $112 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

   Americas  Asia  Europe  Direct marketing   All other  Consolidated
Total
 
   (In thousands) 

Accrued restructuring balance at July 31, 2017

  $51  $—    $23  $—     $112  $186 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Restructuring charges

   —     —     —     —      —     —   

Restructuring adjustments

   27   1   2   —      11   41 

Cash paid

   (12  —     —     —      (108  (120

Non-cash adjustments

   2   (1  (25  —      29   5 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

Accrued restructuring balance at January 31, 2018

  $68  $—    $—    $—     $44  $112 
  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

  

 

 

 

The net restructuring charges for the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017 would have been allocated as follows had the Company recorded the expense and adjustments within the functional department of the restructured activities:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Cost of revenue

  $—     $154   $8   $735 

Selling, general and administrative

   4    622    33    1,415 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $4   $776   $41   $2,150 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(8) ACQUISTION OF IWCO DIRECT

On December 15, 2017, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) by and among the Company, MLGS Merger Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation and newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (“MLGS”), IWCO Direct Holdings Inc. a Delaware corporation (“IWCO”), CSC Shareholder Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (solely in its capacity as representative), and the stockholders of IWCO. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, MLGS was merged with and into IWCO, with IWCO surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (the “IWCO Acquisition”). The Company acquired IWCO as a part of the Company’s overall acquisition strategy to acquire profitable companies to utilize the Company’s tax net operating losses.

The Company acquired IWCO for total consideration of approximately $469.2 million, net of purchase price adjustments. The Company financed the IWCO Acquistion through a combination of cash on hand and proceeds from a $393.0 million term loan made under the below described financing agreement with Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, net of a $2.5 million receivable from escrow for working capital claims. The transaction price includedone-time transaction incentive awards of $3.5 million paid to executives upon closing that were related to pre-existing management arrangements and were included as an element of the purchase price. In connection with the acquisition, the Company paid transaction costs of $1.5 million at acquisition which wasis recorded as a component of selling, general and administrative expense. Goodwillaccrued expenses in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.


(8)LEASES
The table below presents the components of the Company's lease expense:
Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Operating lease cost$2,497 $2,463 $4,902 $4,973 
Short-term lease expense437 452 875 739 
Variable lease cost15 
Amortization of finance lease assets— — — — 
Interest on finance lease liabilities— — 
Sublease income(291)(213)(564)(213)
$2,646 $2,707 $5,220 $5,516 
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
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Supplemental cash flow information related to the acquisitionCompany's leases was as follows:
Six Months Ended
January 31,
20232022
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$4,826 $5,044 
Operating cash flows from finance leases$— $
Financing cash flows from finance leases$38 $36 
(9)DEBT
The components of IWCO is not deductible for tax purposes.

The following table summarizes the preliminary fair value of assets acquireddebt and liabilities assumed at the date of the acquisition (in thousands):

Accounts receivable

  $47,841 

Inventory

   27,165 

Other current assets

   7,427 

Property and equipment

   87,976 

Intangible assets

   210,920 

Goodwill

   259,085 

Other assets

   3,040 

Accounts payable

   (31,069

Accrued liabilities and other current liabilities

   (35,790

Customer deposits

   (7,829

Deferred income taxes

   (79,918

Other liabilities

   (19,627
  

 

 

 

Total consideration

  $469,221 
  

 

 

 

Acquired intangible assets include trademarks and tradenames valued at $20.5 million and customer relationships of $190.4 million. The preliminary fair value estimate of trademarks and tradenames was prepared utilizing a relief from royalties method of valuation, while the preliminary fair value estimate of customer relationships was prepared using a multi-period excess earnings method of valuation. The trademarks and tradenames intangible asset will be amortized on a straight line basis over a 3 year estimated useful life. The customer relationship intangible asset will be amortized on a double-declining basis over an estimated useful life of 15 years. The acquired property and equipment consist mainly of machinery and equipment. The fair value of the acquired property and equipment was estimated using the cost approach to value, and applying industry standard normal useful lives and inflationary indices. In the preliminary allocation of the purchase price, the Company recognized $259.1 million of goodwill which arose primarily from the synergies in its business and the assembled workforce of IWCO.

The following unaudited pro forma financial results are based on the Company’s historical consolidated financial statements and IWCO’s historical consolidated financial statements as adjusted to give effectreconciliation to the Company’s acquisitioncarrying amount of IWCO and related transactions. The unaudited pro forma financial information for the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 give effect to these transactions as if they had occurred on August 1, 2016. The unaudited pro forma resultslong-term debt is presented do not necessarily reflect the results of operations that would have resulted had the acquisition been completed at the beginning of August 1, 2017, nor do they indicate the results of operations in future periods. Additionally, the unaudited pro forma results do not include the impact of possible business model changes, nor do they consider any potential impacts of current market conditions or revenues, reduction of expenses, asset dispositions, or other factors. The impact of these items could alter the following pro forma results.

The pro forma results were adjusted to reflect incremental depreciation and amortization based on preliminary fair value adjustments for the acquired property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets. A reduction to interest expense is also reflected in the pro forma resultstable below:

January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(In thousands)
Unsecured
7.50% Convertible Senior Note due March 1, 2024$14,940 $14,940 
Credit Facilities
Umpqua Revolver— — 
Less: unamortized discounts and issuance costs(a)
(2,892)(3,972)
Total debt, net$12,048 $10,968 
(a)Amounts include deferred debt issuance costs related to reflect the more favorable terms obtained with the new Credit Facility as compared to the interest rate under the former facility carried by IWCO (in thousands):

   Three Months
Ended
   Six Months
Ended
   Three Months
Ended
   Six Months
Ended
 
   January 31, 2017   January 31, 2018 
   (unaudited)   (unaudited) 

Net revenue

  $239,375   $466,979   $208,393   $433,006 

Net income

  $(7,034  $(24,268  $68,827   $59,787 

(9) GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The Company conducts its goodwill impairment test on July 31credit facilities of each fiscal year. In addition, if$56 thousand and when events or circumstances change that could reduce the fair value of any of its reporting units below its carrying value, an interim test is performed. In making this assessment, the Company relies on a number of factors including operating results, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, and transactions and marketplace data. The Company’s goodwill of $259.1 million$79 thousand as of January 31, 2018 relates to the Company’s Direct Marketing reporting unit. There were no indicators of impairment identified related to the Company’s Direct Marketing reporting unit during the three2023 and six months ended JanuaryJuly 31, 2018.

Intangible2022, respectively, which are presented in Prepaid expenses and other current assets as of January 31, 2018, include trademarks and tradenames with a carrying balance of $20.2 million and customer relationships of $186.6 million. The trademarks and tradenames intangible asset are being amortized on a straight line basis over a 3 year estimated useful life. The customer relationship intangible asset are being amortized on a double-declining basis over an estimated useful life of 15 years. Intangible assets deemed to have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, where the useful life is the period over which the asset is expected to contribute directly, or indirectly, to its future cash flows. Intangible assets are reviewed for impairment on an interim basis when certain events or circumstances exist. For amortizable intangible assets, impairment exists when the carrying amount of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value. At least annually, the remaining useful life is evaluated.

(10) DEBT

5.25%Other assets.

7.50% Convertible Senior Notes Payable

Note


On March 18, 2014,February 28, 2019, the Company entered into an indenturea 7.50% Convertible Senior Note Due 2024 Purchase Agreement (the “Indenture”"SPHG Note Purchase Agreement") with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, relatingSPH Group Holdings LLC ("SPHG Holdings"), whereby SPHG Holdings agreed to loan the Company’s issuance of $100Company $14.9 million of 5.25%in exchange for a 7.50% Convertible Senior NotesNote due 2024 (the “Notes”"SPHG Note"). The Notes bear interestSPHG Holdings has the right, at the rate of 5.25% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning on September 1, 2014. The Notes will mature on March 1, 2019, unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder in accordance with their terms prior to such maturity date.

Holders of the Notes may convert all or any portion of their notes, in multiples of $1,000 principal amount, at theirits option, at any time prior to the close of business oron the business day immediately preceding March 1, 2024, the maturity date. Each $1,000 of principaldate of the Notes will initially be convertibleSPHG Note, to convert the SPHG Note or a portion thereof that is $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, into 166.2593 shares of ourcommon stock (if the Company has not received a required stockholder approval) or cash, shares of common stock or a combination of cash and shares of common stock, as applicable (if the Company has received a required stockholder approval), at an initial conversion rate of 421.2655 shares of common stock, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $6.01$2.37 per share (subject to adjustment as provided in the SPHG Note) per $1,000 principal amount of the SPHG Note, subject to, adjustment uponand in accordance with, the occurrence of certain events, or, if the Company obtains the required consent from its stockholders, into sharessettlement provisions of the Company’s common stock, cash or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock, at the Company’s election. If the Company has received stockholder approval, and it elects to settle conversions through the payment of cash or payment or delivery of a combination of cash and shares, the Company’s conversion obligation will be based on the volume weighted average prices (“VWAP”) of its common stock for each VWAP trading day in a 40 VWAP trading day observation period. The Notes and any of the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion have not been registered.SPHG Note. As of January 31, 2018,2023, theif-converted value of the NotesSPHG Note did not exceed the principal value of the Notes.

Holders will have the right to require the Company to repurchase their Notes, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes, subject to certain conditions. No fundamental changes occurred during the six months ended January 31, 2018.

The Company may not redeem the Notes prior to the maturity date, and no sinking fund is provided for the Notes. The Company will have the right to elect to cause the mandatory conversion of the Notes in whole, and not in part, at any time on or after March 6, 2017, if the last reported sale price of its common stock has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive), including the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company notifies holders of its election to mandatorily convert the Notes, during any 30 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company notifies holders of its election to mandatorily convert the notes.

The Company has valued the debt using similar nonconvertible debt as of the original issuance date of the Notes and bifurcated the conversion option associated with the Notes from the host debt instrument and recorded the conversion option of $28.1 million in stockholders’ equity prior to the allocation of debt issuance costs. The initial value of the equity component, which reflects the equity conversion feature, is equal to the initial debt discount. The resulting debt discount on the Notes is being accreted to interest expense at the effective interest rate over the estimated life of the Notes. The equity component is included in the additionalpaid-in-capital portion of stockholders’ equity on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. In addition, the debt issuance costs of $3.4 million are allocated between the liability and equity components in proportion to the allocation of the proceeds. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2017, the Company adopted ASUNo. 2015-03. As such, the issuance costs allocated to the liability component ($2.5 million) are capitalized as a reduction of the principal amount of the Notes payable on the Company’s balance sheet and amortized, using the effective-interest method, as additional interest expense over the term of the Notes. The issuance costs allocated to the equity component is recorded as a reduction to additionalpaid-in capital.

The fair value of the Company’s Notes payable, calculated as of the closing price of the traded securities, was $66.2 million and $63.9 million as of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, respectively. This value does not represent the settlement value of these long-term debt liabilities to the Company. The fair value of the Notes payable could vary each period based on fluctuations in market interest rates, as well as changes to our credit ratings. The Notes payable are traded and their fair values are based upon traded prices as of the reporting dates.SPHG Note. As of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, the net carrying value of the Notes was $62.1 million and $59.8 million, respectively.

   January 31,   July 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Carrying amount of equity component (net of allocated debt issuance costs)

  $26,961   $26,961 

Principal amount of Notes

  $67,625   $67,625 

Unamortized debt discount

   (5,110   (7,227

Unamortized debt issuance costs

   (453   (640
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net carrying amount

  $62,062   $59,758 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of January 31, 2018,2023, the remaining period over which the unamortized discount will be amortized is 13 months.

   Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended 
   January 31,   January 31, 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands)   (In thousands) 

Interest expense related to contractual interest coupon

  $913   $888   $1,827   $1,823 

Interest expense related to accretion of the discount

   1,076    999    2,117    1,940 

Interest expense related to debt issuance costs

   95    89    187    172 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $2,084   $1,976   $4,131   $3,935 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

During the three and six months ended As of January 31, 2018,2023 and July 31, 2022, the Company recognized interest expense associated withnet carrying value of the Notes of $2.1SPHG Note was $12.1 million and $4.1 million, respectively. During the three and six months ended January 31, 2017, the Company recognized interest expense of $2.0 million and $3.9$11.0 million, respectively. The effective interest rate on the Notes,SPHG Note, including amortization of debt issuance costs and accretion of the discount, is 13.9%27.8%. The notes bear interest of 5.25%.

PNC Bank Credit Facility

On June 30, 2014, two direct and wholly owned subsidiariesfollowing tables reflect the components of the Company (the “ModusLink Borrowers”)SPHG Note:

January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(In thousands)
Carrying amount of equity component$8,200 $8,200 
Principal amount of note$14,940 $14,940 
Unamortized debt discount(2,836)(3,893)
Net carrying amount$12,104 $11,047 

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Table of Contents
Three months ended January 31,Six months ended January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Interest expense related to contractual interest coupon$286 $286 $573 $572 
Interest expense related to accretion of the discount547 414 1,056 800 
Interest expense related to revolving credit facilities (see below)12 34 24 69 
Other16 21 71 
Total interest expense$848 $750 $1,674 $1,512 
See Note 18 – “Subsequent Events” for additional information regarding the SPHG Note.
Umpqua Revolver
On March 16, 2022, ModusLink, as borrower, entered into a revolvingnew credit and security agreement (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”), as borrowers and guarantors, with PNCUmpqua Bank and National Association, as lender and as agent, respectively.

agent. The Credit Agreement has a five (5) year term which expires on June 30, 2019. It includesUmpqua Revolver provides for a maximum credit commitment of $50.0$12.5 million isand a sublimit of $5.0 million for letters of credit and expires on March 16, 2024. Concurrent with signing the Umpqua Revolver ModusLink submitted a notice of termination to MidCap Financial Trust for its $12.5 million revolving credit facility (the “MidCap Credit Facility”), which was set to expire on December 31, 2022. There was no balance outstanding on the Midcap Credit Facility at the time of its termination. As of January 31, 2023, ModusLink was in compliance with the Umpqua Revolver's covenants, and believes it will remain in compliance with the Umpqua Revolver’s covenants for the next twelve months. As of January 31, 2023, ModusLink had available borrowing capacity of $11.9 million and there was $0.6 million available for letters of credit (withcredit. See Note 18 – “Subsequent Events” for additional information regarding the Umpqua Revolver.

(10)CONTINGENCIES
Legal Proceedings

On April 13, 2018, a sublimitpurported shareholder, Donald Reith, filed a verified complaint, Reith v. Lichtenstein, et al., 2018-277 (Del. Ch.) in the Delaware Court of $5.0 million)Chancery. The complaint alleges class and has a $20.0derivative claims for breach of fiduciary duty and/or aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty and unjust enrichment against the Board of Directors, Warren G. Lichtenstein, Glen M. Kassan, William T. Fejes, Jack L. Howard, Jeffrey J. Fenton, Philip E. Lengyel and Jeffrey S. Wald; and stockholders Steel Holdings, Steel Partners, Ltd., SPHG Holdings, Handy & Harman Ltd. and WHX CS Corp. (collectively, the "Steel Parties") in connection with the acquisition of $35.0 million uncommitted accordion feature. The actual maximum credit available under the Credit Agreement varies from time to time and is determined by calculating the applicable borrowing base, which is based upon applicable percentages of the values of eligible accounts receivableSeries C Convertible Preferred Stock by SPHG Holdings and eligible inventory minus reserves determined byequity grants made to Messrs. Lichtenstein, Howard and Fejes on December 15, 2017 (collectively, the Agent (including other reserves that the Agent may establish from time to time in its permitted discretion), all as specified in the Credit Agreement.

Generally, borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the ModusLink Borrowers’ option, either (a) LIBOR (adjusted to reflect any required bank reserves) for an interest period equal to one, two or three months (as selected by the ModusLink Borrowers) plus a margin of 2.25% per annum or (b) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (1) the base commercial lending rate publicly announced from time to time by PNC Bank, National Association, (2) the sum of the Federal Funds Open Rate in effect on such day plus one half of one percent (0.5%"Challenged Transactions") per annum, or (3) the LIBOR rate (adjusted to reflect any required bank reserves) in effect on such day plus 1.00% per annum. In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the Credit Agreement, the ModusLink Borrowers are required to pay a commitment fee, in respect of the unutilized commitments thereunder, of 0.25% per annum, paid quarterly in arrears. The ModusLink Borrowers are also required to pay a customary letter of credit fee equal to the applicable margin on revolving credit LIBOR loans and fronting fees.

Obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the ModusLink Borrowers’ existing and future direct and indirect wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries, subject to certain limited exceptions; and the Credit Agreement is secured by security interests in substantially all the ModusLink Borrowers’ assets and the assets of each subsidiary guarantor, whether owned as of the closing or thereafter acquired, including a pledge of 100.0% of the equity interests of each subsidiary guarantor that is a domestic entity (subject to certain limited exceptions) and 65.0% of the voting equity interests of any direct first tier foreign entity owned by either Borrower or by a subsidiary guarantor.. The Company is notnamed as a borrower ornominal defendant. The complaint alleges that although the Challenged Transactions were approved by a guarantor underSpecial Committee consisting of the Credit Agreement.

independent members of the Board of Directors (Messrs. Fenton, Lengyel and Wald), the Steel Parties dominated and controlled the Special Committee, who approved the Challenged Transactions in breach of their fiduciary duty. Plaintiff alleges that the Challenged Transactions unfairly diluted stockholders and therefore unjustly enriched Steel Holdings, SPHG Holdings and Messrs. Lichtenstein, Howard and Fejes. The Credit Agreement contains certain customary negative covenants, which include limitations on mergers and acquisitions,complaint also alleges that the saleBoard of assets, liens, guarantees, investments, loans, capital expenditures, dividends, indebtedness, changesDirectors made misleading disclosures in the natureCompany's proxy statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of business, transactionsStockholders in connection with affiliates,seeking approval to amend the creation2010 Incentive Award Plan to authorize the issuance of subsidiaries, changes in fiscal yearadditional shares to accommodate certain shares underlying the equity grants. Remedies requested include rescission of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock and accounting practices, changesequity grants, disgorgement of any unjustly obtained property or compensation and monetary damages. On June 8, 2018, defendants moved to governing documents, compliancedismiss the complaint for failure to plead demand futility and failure to state a claim. On June 28, 2019, the Court denied most of the motion to dismiss allowing the matter to proceed. The defendants answered the complaint on September 6, 2019, denying all liability.


On August 13, 2021, the Company, together with certain statutes,of its current and prepaymentsformer directors of certain indebtedness. The Credit Agreement also contains certain customary affirmative covenants (including periodic reporting obligations)the Board, Warren Lichtenstein, Glen Kassan, William Fejes, Jr., Jack Howard, Jeffrey Fenton and eventsJeffrey Wald, as well as other named defendants (collectively, the “Defendants”), entered into a memorandum of default, including upon a changeunderstanding (the “MOU”) with Donald Reith (the “Plaintiff”) in connection with the settlement of control. The Credit Agreement requires compliancethe Reith v. Lichtenstein, et al., C.A. No. 2018-0277-MTZ (Del. Ch. 2018) class and derivative action. A definitive Stipulation of Settlement (the “Stipulation”) incorporating the terms of the MOU was filed with certain financial covenants providing for maintenancethe Court on February 18, 2022. Pursuant to the MOU and Stipulation, and contingent on approval of specified liquidity, maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and/or maintenance of a maximum leverage ratio following the occurrence of certain events and/or priorterms by the court, the Defendants agreed to taking certain actions, all as more fully described in the Credit Agreement. The Company believes that the Credit Agreement provides greater financial flexibilitycause their directors’ and officers’ liability insurance carriers to pay to the Company $2.75 million in cash.

Additionally, under the MOU and separate letter agreements between the ModusLink BorrowersCompany and may enhance their abilitysuch individuals (the “Surrender Agreements”), Messrs. Lichtenstein, Howard and Fejes agreed to consummate one or several larger and/or more attractive acquisitionssurrender to the Company an aggregate 3.3 million shares that they had initially received in December 2017 in consideration for services to the Company. The surrenders and should provide our clients and/or potential clients with greater confidencecancellations are in the Company’sfollowing amounts: for Mr. Lichtenstein, 1,833,333 vested shares and 300,000 unvested shares; for Mr. Howard, 916,667
19


Table of Contents
vested shares and 150,000 unvested shares; and for Mr. Fejes, 100,000 vested shares. On August 17, 2021, Mr. Lichtenstein and Mr. Howard surrendered the ModusLink Borrowers’ liquidity. Duringshares required under the three months ended January 31, 2018,MOU, the Stipulation and their respective Surrender Agreements, and in December 2021 Mr. Fejes did the same. All such shares were subsequently cancelled. Pursuant to the MOU and Stipulation, the Company did not meet the criteria that would cause its financial covenants to be applicable. As of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, the Company did not have any balance outstanding on the PNC Bank credit facility.

Cerberus Credit Facility

On December 15, 2017, MLGS, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Financing Agreement (the “Financing Agreement”), by and among the MLGS (as the initial borrower), Instant Web, LLC, a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of IWCO (as “Borrower”), IWCO, and certain of IWCO’s subsidiaries (together with IWCO, the “Guarantors”), the lenders from time to time party thereto, and Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, as collateral agent and administrative agent for the lenders. MLGS was the initial borrower under the Financing Agreement, but immediately upon the consummation of the IWCO Acquisition, as described above, Borrower became the borrower under the Financing Agreement.

The Financing Agreement provides for $393.0 million term loan facility (the “Term Loan”) and a $25.0 million revolving credit facility (collectively, the “Cerberus Credit Facility”). Proceeds of the Cerberus Credit Facility were used (i) to finance a portion of the IWCO Acquisition, (ii) to repay certain existing indebtedness of the Borrower and its subsidiaries, (iii) for working capital and general corporate purposes and (iv)also agreed to pay the Plaintiff’s counsel legal fees and expenses related to the Financing Agreement and the IWCO Acquisition.

The Cerberus Credit Facility has a maturity of five years. Borrowings under the Cerberus Credit Facility bear interest, at the Borrower’s option, at a Reference Rate plus 3.75% or a LIBOR Rate plus 6.5%, each as defined the Financing Agreement. The initial interest rate under the Cerberus Credit Facility is at the LIBOR Rate option.

The Term Loan under the Cerberus Credit Facility is repayable in consecutive quarterly installments, each of which will befor this matter in an amount equal per quarterup to $2.05 million, if approved by the court.


After the parties filed papers in support of $1,500,000court approval of the settlement, and each such installmentan objector filed papers in opposition to be dueapproval of the settlement, and payable, in arrears,after hearings held on August 12 and August 18, 2022, the last dayparties submitted an amendment to the Stipulation: (i) increasing the proposed total contribution of each calendar quarter commencing on March 31, 2018the insurers to $3.0 million, (ii) reducing Plaintiff’s counsel’s fee request to $1.6 million, and ending on(iii) providing that if the earlierthen pending proposed Merger was consummated, the $3 million, minus fees awarded to Plaintiff’s counsel and costs of (a) December 15, 2022 and (b) upon the payment in fulldistribution of all obligations under the Financing Agreement and the termination of all commitments under the Financing Agreement. Further, the Term Loanup to $125,000, would be permanently reduced pursuantdistributed to certain mandatory prepayment events including an annual “excess cash flow sweep”the holders of 50%eligible shares of the consolidated excess cash flow, with a step-down to 25% when the Leverage RatioCommon Stock (as defined in the Financing Agreement) is below 3.50:1.00;Merger Agreement governing the Merger), other than the Defendants; provided, however, that inno distribution would be required to be made to any calendar year, any voluntary prepaymentsholder whose proportionate share of the Term Loan shalldistribution would be credited againstless than $1.00. On September 23, 2022, the Borrower’s “excess cash flow” prepayment obligations on adollar-for-dollar basis for such calendar year.

Borrowings under the Financing Agreement are fully guaranteed by the Guarantors and are collateralized by substantially all the assetscourt ruled that it was denying approval of the Borrowersettlement. At the court’s instruction, the parties provided a status report on October 24, 2022, reporting that the vote on the proposed Merger had been postponed to October 28, 2022, and proposing to file a revised status report on November 23, 2022. The parties filed the Guarantors and a pledge of allstatus report on November 23, 2022, reporting that due to the termination of the proposed Merger on November 15, 2022, the parties were conferring on the next steps, and therefore proposed providing another status report within 30 days, or on other such date as the court may order. On November 28, 2022, the court issued a minute order advising that no further status updates were required to be filed in the matter and outstanding equity interestsnoting that the court would remain available to hear requests for relief as needed. No trial date or pretrial deadlines are currently scheduled. The possible recovery, if any, with respect to this dispute cannot be determined as of eachthe date of IWCO’s subsidiaries.

this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.


(11)REVENUE RECOGNITION
Disaggregation of Revenue
The Financing Agreement contains certain representations, warranties, eventsfollowing table presents the Company's revenues from contracts with customers disaggregated by major good or service line and timing of default, mandatory prepayment requirements,revenue recognition. The table also includes a reconciliation of the disaggregated revenue with the reportable segments.

Three months ended January 31,Six months ended January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Major Goods/Service Lines
Supply chain management services$50,427 $53,719 101,358 97,661 
Other354 603 782 1,015 
$50,781 $54,322 $102,140 $98,676 
Timing of Revenue Recognition
Services transferred over time$50,781 $54,322 102,140 98,676 
$50,781 $54,322 $102,140 $98,676 
Supply Chain Management Services
ModusLink's revenue primarily comes from the sale of supply chain management services to its clients. Amounts billed to customers under these arrangements include revenue attributable to the services performed as well as certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for financing agreements of this type. These covenants include restrictions on borrowings, investments and dispositions, as well as limitationsmaterials procured on the abilitycustomer's behalf as part of the Borrower and the Guarantorsits service to make certain capital expenditures and pay dividends. Upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Financing Agreement, the lenders under the Financing Agreement may, among other things, terminate all commitments and declare all or a portion of the loans under the Financing Agreement immediately due and payable and increase the interest rate at which loans and obligations under the Financing Agreement bear interest. During the three months ended January 31, 2018, the Company did not trigger anythem. The majority of these covenants. During the first quarterarrangements consist of fiscal year 2017, the Company adopted ASUNo. 2015-03. As such, the debt issuance coststwo distinct performance obligations (i.e., warehousing/inventory management service and a separate kitting/packaging/assembly service), revenue related to each of $1.3 millionwhich is recognized over time as services are capitalized as a reduction of the principal amount of Term Loanperformed using an input method based on the Company’s balance sheetlevel of efforts expended.
Other
Other revenue consists of cloud-based software subscriptions, software maintenance and amortized, using the effective-interest method, as additional interest expensesupport service contracts, and fees for professional services. Revenue related to these arrangements is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the Term Loan. As of January 31, 2018,agreement or over the Company had $6.0 million outstanding on the revolving credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding on the Term Loan was $393.0 million. As of January 31, 2018, the current and long-term net carrying valueterm of the Term Loan was $391.7 million.

(11) STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Preferred Stock

agreement in proportion to the costs incurred in satisfying the obligations under the contract.

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Table of Contents
Contract Balances
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from timing of invoicing to customers. The Company’s BoardCompany records contract assets and liabilities related to its contracts with customers as follows:
Accounts receivable when revenue is recognized prior to receipt of Directors (“the “Board”) has the authority, subject to any limitations prescribed by Delaware law, to issue shares of preferred stock in one or more seriescash payments and to fix and determine the designation, privileges, preferences and rights and the qualifications, limitations and restrictions of those shares, including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, redemption rights, terms of sinking funds, liquidation preferences and the number of shares constituting any series or the designation of the series, without any further vote or action by the stockholders. Any shares of the Company’s preferred stock so issued may have priority over its common stock with respect to dividend, liquidation and other rights. The Company’s board of directors may authorize the issuance of preferred stock with voting rights or conversion features that could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of the holders of its common stock. Although the issuance of preferred stock could provide us with flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions and other corporate purposes, under some circumstances, it could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control.

On December 15, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with SPH Group Holdings LLC (“SPHG Holdings”), pursuant to which the Company issued 35,000 shares of the Company’s newly created Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Preferred Stock”), to SPHG Holdings at a price of $1,000 per share, for an aggregate purchase consideration of $35.0 million (the “Preferred Stock Transaction”). The terms, rights, obligations and preferences of the Preferred Stock are set forth in a Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company (the “Series C Certificate of Designations”), which has been filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

Under the Series C Certificate of Designations, each share of Preferred Stock can be converted into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Common Stock”), at an initial conversion price equal to $1.96 per share, subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction. Holders of the Preferred Stock will also receive cumulative dividends at 6% per annum payable in quarterly cash or Common Stock. If at any time the closing bid price of the Company’s Common Stock exceeds 170% of the conversion price for at least five consecutive trading days (subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction), the Company hasif the right to require each holdersuch amounts is unconditional and solely based on the passage of Preferred Stocktime.

Contract asset when the Company recognizes revenue based on efforts expended but the right to convertsuch amount is conditional upon satisfaction of another performance obligation. The Company's contract assets are all short-term in nature and are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Deferred revenue when cash payments are received or any whole number,due in advance of sharesperformance. Deferred revenue is primarily comprised of fees related to supply chain management services, cloud-based software subscriptions and software maintenance and support service contracts, which are generally billed in advance. Deferred revenue also includes other offerings for which we have been paid in advance and earn the revenue when we transfer control of the Preferred Stock into Common Stock.

Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events suchproduct or service. The deferred revenue balance is classified as a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, either voluntary or involuntary, or the merger or consolidation of the Company or significant subsidiary, or the sale of substantially all of the assets or capital stock of the Company or a significant subsidiary, the holders of the Preferred Stock are entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any of the assets or funds of the Company to the holderscomponent of other equity or equity equivalent securities of the Companycurrent liabilities and other than the Preferred Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share in cash equal to the sum of (i) one hundred percent (100%) of the stated value per share of Preferred Stock (initially $1,000 per share) then held by them (as adjusted for any stock split, stock dividend, stock combination or other similar transactions with respect to the Preferred Stock), plus (ii) 100% of all declared but unpaid dividends, and all accrued but unpaid dividends on each such share of Preferred Stock, in each case as the date of the triggering event. On or after December 15, 2022, each holder of Preferred Stock can also require the Company to redeem its Preferred Stock in cash at a price equal to the Liquidation Preference (as defined in Series C Certificate of Designations) and accordingly the Preferred Stock has been classified in the Mezzanine section of the accompanying balance sheet.

Each holder of Preferred Stock has a vote equal to the number of shares of Common Stock into which its Preferred Stock would be convertible as of the record date, provided that the number of shares voted is based upon a conversion price which is no less than the greater of the book or market value of the Common Stocklong-term liabilities on the closing date of the purchase of the Preferred Stock. In addition, for so long as the Preferred Stock remains outstanding, the Company will not, directly or indirectly, and including in each case with respect to any significant subsidiary, without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Preferred Stock (i) liquidate, dissolve or wind up the Company or any significant subsidiary; (ii) consummate any transaction that would constitute or result in a Liquidation Event (as defined in the Series C Certificate of Designations); (iii) effect or consummate any Prohibited Issuance (as defined in the Series C Certificate of Designations); or (iv) create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Indebtedness (as defined in the Series C Certificate of Designations) of any kind, other than certain existing Indebtedness of the Company and any replacement financing thereto, unless any such replacement financing be on substantially similar terms as such existing Indebtedness.

Company's condensed consolidated balance sheets.


The Purchase Agreement provides that the Company will use its commercially reasonable efforts to effect the piggyback registration of the Common Stock issuable on the conversion of the Preferred Stock and any securities issued or issuable upon any stock split, dividend or other distribution, recapitalization or similar event with respect to the foregoing, with the Securities and Exchange Commission in all states reasonably requested by the holder in accordance with certain enumerated conditions. The Purchase Agreement also contains other representations, warranties and covenants, customary for an issuance of Preferred Stock in a private placement of this nature.

The Preferred Stock Transaction was approved and recommended to the Board by a special committee of the Board (the “Special Committee”) consisting of independent directors not affiliated with Steel Partners Holdings GP Inc. (“Steel Holdings GP”), which controls the power to vote and dispose of the securities held by SPHG Holdings and its affiliates (see Note 18).

Common Stock

Each holder of the Company’s common stock is entitled to:

one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders, subject to the rights of any preferred stock that may be outstanding;

dividends as may be declared by the Company’s board of directors out of funds legally available for that purpose, subject to the rights of any preferred stock that may be outstanding; and

a pro rata share in any distribution of the Company’s assets after payment or providingtable below presents information for the paymentCompany's contract balances:
January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(In thousands)
Accounts receivable, trade, net$37,180 $40,083 
Contract assets508 369 
Deferred revenue - current$3,489 $2,705 
Deferred revenue - long-term88 134 
Total deferred revenue$3,577 $2,839 
Remaining Performance Obligations

Remaining performance obligations are comprised of liabilities and the liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred stockdeferred revenue. Changes in the event of liquidation.

Holders of the Company’s common stock have no cumulative voting rights, redemption rights or preemptive rights to purchase or subscribe for any shares of its common stock or other securities. All of the outstanding shares of common stock are fully paid and nonassessable. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of its common stock are subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any existing series of preferred stock and any series of preferred stock that the Company may designate and issue in the future. There are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the Company’s common stock.

On March 12, 2013, stockholders of the Company approved the sale of 7,500,000 shares of newly issued common stock to Steel Partners Holdings L.P. (“Steel Holdings”), an affiliate of SPHG Holdings, at a price of $4.00 per share, resulting in aggregate proceeds of $30.0 million before transaction costs. The Company incurred $2.3 million of transaction costs, which consisted primarily of investment banking and legal fees, resulting in net proceeds from the sale of $27.7 million. In addition, as part of the transaction, the Company issued Steel Holdings a warrant to acquire an additional 2,000,000 shares at an exercise price of $5.00 per share (the “Warrant”). These warrants were to expire after a term of five years after issuance. On December 15, 2017, contemporaneously with the closing of the Preferred Stock Transaction, the Company entered into a Warrant Repurchase Agreement (the “Warrant Repurchase Agreement”) with Steel Holdings pursuant to which the Company repurchased the Warrant for $100. The Warrant was terminated by the Company upon repurchase. The Warrant Repurchase Agreement is more fully described in Note 18 to these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

(12) OTHER GAINS (LOSSES), NET

The following table reflects the components of “Other gains (losses), net”:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Foreign currency exchange gains (losses)

  $(1,436  $29   $(2,071  $426 

Gains on Trading Securities

   —      1,011    1,876    94 

Other, net

   (280   (21   (99   11 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $(1,716  $1,019   $(294  $531 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The Company recorded foreign exchange gains (losses) of approximately $(1.4) million and $29 thousand during the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the three months ended January 31, 2018, the net losses primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $(2.3) million, $1.3 million and $(0.7) million in Corporate, Europe and Asia, respectively. For the three months ended January 31, 2017, the net gains primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $0.6 million, $(0.5) million and $(0.1) million in Corporate, Asia and Europe, respectively.

During the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company recognized $1.0 million in net gains associated with its Trading Securities.

The Company recorded foreign exchange gains (losses) of approximately $(2.1) million and $0.4 milliondeferred revenue during the six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 2017, respectively. For the six months ended January 31, 2018,2022, were as follows:

Six Months Ended
January 31,
20232022
(In thousands)
Balance at beginning of period$2,839 $2,320 
Deferral of revenue1,483 1,656 
Recognition of deferred amounts upon satisfaction of performance obligation(745)(588)
Balance at end of period$3,577 $3,388 
The Company expects to recognize approximately $3.5 million of the net gains primarily relateddeferred revenue over the next twelve months and the remaining $0.1 million beyond that time period.
The Company does not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $(2.2) million, $1.0 million and $(1.1) million in Corporate, Europe and Asia, respectively. Forwhich we have the six months ended January 31, 2017, the net gains primarily relatedright to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $1.3 million, $(0.4) million and $(0.4) million in Corporate, Asia and Europe, respectively.

During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recognized $2.7 million in netnon-cash losses associated with its Trading Securities. During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recognized $4.6 million in net cash gains associated with its Trading Securities.

(13) invoice for services performed.

(12)INCOME TAXES

The Company operates in multiple taxing jurisdictions, both within and outside of the United States. For the six months ended January 31, 2018,2023, the Company was profitable in certain jurisdictions, resulting in an income tax expense using enacted rates in those jurisdictions. As of both January 31, 2018,2023 and July 31, 2022, the total amount of the liability for unrecognized tax benefits related to federal, state and foreign taxes was approximately $1.8$0.8 million. As
21


Table of JulyContents
On August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) was signed into law in the United States. Among other provisions, the IRA includes a 15.0% corporate minimum tax rate on the adjusted financial statement income of certain large corporations and a 1.0% excise tax on corporate stock repurchases made after December 31, 2017,2022 by U.S. publicly traded corporations and certain U.S. subsidiaries of non-U.S. publicly traded corporations, as well as significant enhancements of U.S. tax incentives relating to climate and energy investments. Although we do not expect the total amountIRA to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, the full effect on us is uncertain.

On March 27, 2020, the President of the liability for unrecognized tax benefits relatedUnited States signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security ("CARES") Act into law, which is intended to federal,respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the economy, public health, state and foreign taxes was approximately $0.7 million.

local governments, individuals and businesses.


We do not expect the CARES Act to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Uncertain Tax Positions


In accordance with the Company’sCompany's accounting policy, interest related to unrecognized tax benefits is included in the provision of income taxestax expense line of the Condensed Consolidated Statementscondensed consolidated statements of Operations.operations. As of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, the liabilities for interest expense related to uncertain tax positions were immaterial.$0.01 million and $0.1 million, respectively. The Company did not accrue for penalties related to income tax

positions as there were no income tax positions that required the Company to accrue penalties. The Company does not expect anyexpects $0.2 million of unrecognized tax benefits and related interest to reverse in the next twelve months. The Company is subject to U.S. federal income tax and various state, local and international income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. The federal and state tax returns are generally subject to tax examinations for the tax years ended July 31, 20132019 through July 31, 2017.2022. To the extent the Company has tax attribute carryforwards, the tax year in which the attribute was generated may still be adjusted upon examination by the Internal Revenue Service or state tax authorities to the extent utilized in a future period. In addition, a number of tax years remain subject to examination by the appropriate government agencies for certain countries in the Europe and Asia regions. In Europe, the Company’s 2009Company's 2014 through 20162021 tax years remain subject to examination in most locations, while the Company’s 2005Company's 2010 through 20162021 tax years remain subject to examination in most Asia locations.

Net Operating Loss

The Company has certain deferred tax benefits, including those generated by net operating losses and certain other tax attributes (collectively, the “Tax Benefits”). The Company’s ability to use these Tax Benefits could be substantially limited if it were to experience an “ownership change,” as defined under Section 382

22


Table of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). In general, an ownership change would occur if there is a greater than50-percentage point change in ownership of securities by stockholders owning (or deemed to own under Section 382 of the Code) five percent or more of a corporation’s securities over a rolling three-year period.

Tax Benefits Preservation Plan

On January 19, 2018, our Board adopted a Tax Benefits Preservation Plan (the “Tax Plan”) and with American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, as rights agent (the “Rights Agent”). The Tax Plan is designed to preserve the Company’s ability to utilize its Tax Benefits and is similar to plans adopted by other public companies with significant Tax Benefits. at its 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

The Board will be asking the Company’s stockholders to approve the Tax Plan at its 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the 2017 Meeting”). If the Tax Plan is not approved by stockholders at the 2017 Meeting, the Tax Plan will automatically expire immediately following the final adjournment of the 2017 Meeting if stockholder approval is not received.

The Company had net operating loss carryforwards for federal and state tax purposes of approximately $2.1 billion and $209.8 million, respectively, as of January 31, 2018. The Company’s s ability to use its Tax Benefits would be substantially limited if the Company undergoes an “ownership change” (within the meaning of Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code). The Tax Plan is intended to prevent an “ownership change” of the Company that would impair the Company ability to utilize its Tax Benefits.

As part of the plan Tax Plan, the Board declared a dividend of one right (a “Right”) for each share of Common Stock then outstanding. The dividend was payable to holders of record as of the close of business on January 29, 2018. Any shares of Common Stock issued after January 29, 2018, will be issued together with the Rights. Each Right initially represents the right to purchase oneone-thousandth of a share of newly created Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock.

Initially, the Rights will be attached to all certificates representing shares of Common Stock then outstanding and no separate rights certificates will be distributed. In the case of book entry shares, the Rights will be evidenced by notations in the book entry accounts. Subject to certain exceptions specified in the Plan, the Rights will separate from the Common Stock and a distribution date (the “Distribution Date”) will occur upon the earlier of (i) ten (10) business days following a public announcement that a stockholder (or group) has become a beneficial owner of 4.99-percent or more of the shares of Common Stock then outstanding and (ii) ten (10) business days (or such later date as the Board determines) following the commencement of a tender offer or exchange offer that would result in a person or group becoming a 4.99-percent stockholder.

Pursuant to the Tax Plan and subject to certain exceptions, if a stockholder (or group) becomes a 4.99-percent stockholder after adoption of the Tax Plan, the Rights would generally become exercisable and entitle stockholders (other than the4.99-percent stockholder or group) to purchase additional shares of Steel Connect, Inc. at a significant discount, resulting in substantial dilution in the economic interest and voting power of the4.99-percent stockholder (or group). In addition, under certain circumstances in which Steel Connect, Inc is acquired in a merger or other business combination after annon-exempt stockholder (or group) becomes a 4.99-percent stockholder, each holder of the Right (other than the4.99-percent stockholder or group) would then be entitled to purchase shares of the acquiring company’s common stock at a discount.

The Rights are not exercisable until the Distribution Date and will expire at the earliest of (i) 11:59 p.m. on the date that the votes of the stockholders of the Company with respect to the Company’s next annual meeting or special meeting of stockholders are certified (which date will be no later than January 18, 2019), unless the continuation of the Tax Plan is approved by the affirmative vote of the majority of shares of Common Stock present at such meeting of stockholders (in which case clause (ii) will govern); (ii) 11:59 p.m., on January 18, 2021; (iii) the time at which the Rights are redeemed or exchanged as provided in the Tax Plan; and (iv) the time at which the Board determines that the Tax Plan is no longer necessary or desirable for the preservation of Tax Benefits.

Protective Amendment

On December 9, 2014, the Company’s stockholders voted in favor of an amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company that was designed to protect the long-term tax benefits presented by our NOLs and the Certificate of Amendment of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company effecting such amendment was filed with the State of Delaware on December 29, 2014 (the “Original Protective Amendment”). The Original Protective Amendment expired in December 29, 2017. The Board has determined to replace the Original Protective Amendment with a new similar amendment to our Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “Protective Amendment”). On March 6, 2018, the Board, subject to approval by stockholders, approved a Protective Amendment.

The Protective Amendment, which is designed to prevent certain transfers of our securities that could result in an ownership change. The Protective Amendment will not be put into effect unless and until it is approved by stockholders at the 2017 Meeting. Our new Tax Benefits Preservation Plan, dated as of January 19, 2018, with American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC was entered into on January 19, 2018 following Board approval. The Tax Plan requires stockholder approval to remain in effect after the 2017 Meeting, and will expire immediately following the final adjournment of the 2017 Meeting if stockholder approval is not received.

IWCO Acquisition

As more fully described in Note 8 to these unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company completed the IWCO Acquisition on December 15, 2017. Going forward, the Company and IWCO will file a consolidated federal tax return. In purchase accounting, a deferred tax liability of $79.9 million was computed for IWCO, Inc. After considering the transaction, the projected combined results and available temporary differences from the acquired business, the Company has determined in accordance with ASC805-740-30-3 that its valuation allowance in the same amount of IWCO’s full deferred tax liability may be released and the benefit be recognized in income.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

In December 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, or the Tax Act (“TCJA”), was signed into law. Among other things, the Tax Act permanently lowers the corporate federal income tax rate to 21% from the existing maximum rate of 35%, effective for tax years including or commencing January 1, 2018. As a result of the reduction of the corporate federal income tax rate to 21%, U.S. GAAP requires companies to revalue their deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of the date of enactment, with the resulting tax effects accounted for in the reporting period of enactment. This revaluation resulted in a provision of $266.3 million to income tax expense in continuing operations and a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance. As a result, there was no impact to the Company’s Statement of Operations as a result of reduction in tax rates. The total provision of $266.3 million included a provision of $296.1 million to income tax expense for the Company and a benefit of $29.8 million to income tax expense for IWCO.

Beginning on January 1, 2018, the TCJA also requires a minimum tax on certain future earnings generated by foreign subsidiaries while providing for future tax-free repatriation of such earnings through a 100% dividends-received deduction. In accordance with ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, and SAB 118, the Company has estimated that no provisional charge will be recorded related to the TCJA based on its initial analysis using available information and estimates. Given the significant complexity of the TCJA, anticipated guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department about implementing the TCJA and the potential for additional guidance from the SEC or the FASB related to the TCJA or additional information becoming available, the Company’s provisional charge may be adjusted during 2018 and is expected to be finalized no later than December 31, 2018. Other provisions of the TCJA that impact future tax years are still being assessed.

Our preliminary estimate of the TCJA and the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities is subject to the finalization of management’s analysis related to certain matters, such as developing interpretations of the provisions of the TCJA, changes to certain estimates and the filing of our tax returns. U.S. Treasury regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions interpreting the TCJA may require further adjustments and changes in our estimates. The final determination of the TCJA and the remeasurement of our deferred assets and liabilities will be completed as additional information becomes available, but no later than one year from the enactment of the TCJA.

.

(14) Contents

(13)EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

The Company calculates earnings per share in accordance with ASC Topic 260, “Earnings per Share.”

The following table reconciles net earnings (loss) per share for the three and six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 2017:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 

Net income (loss)

  $65,089   $(2,906  $59,852   $(11,449

Less: Preferred dividends on redeemable preferred stock

   (259   —      (259   —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders

  $64,830   $(2,906  $59,593   $(11,449
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effect of dilutive securities:

        

5.25% Convertible Senior Notes

   1,748    —      3,459    —   

Redeemable preferred stock

   259    —      259    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders after assumed conversions

  $66,837   $(2,906  $63,311   $(11,449
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding

   58,341    55,083    56,776    55,031 

Weighted average common equivalent shares arising from dilutive stock options, restricted stock, convertible notes and convertible preferred stock

   20,742    —      16,107    —   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average number of common and potential common shares

   79,083    55,083    72,883    55,031 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic net earning (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders:

  $1.11   $(0.05  $1.05   $(0.21

Diluted net earning (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders:

  $0.85   $(0.05  $0.87   $(0.21

2022:

Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands, except per share data)
Reconciliation of net (loss) income to net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders after assumed conversions:
Net (loss) income from continuing operations$(526)$(1,486)$4,431 $(2,469)
Loss from discontinued operations— (21,491)— (40,002)
Net (loss) income(526)(22,977)4,431 (42,471)
Less: Preferred dividends on redeemable preferred stock(537)(537)(1,074)(1,074)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(1,063)$(23,514)$3,357 $(43,545)
Net (loss) income per common share - basic
Net (loss) income from continuing operations$(0.02)$(0.03)$0.06 $(0.06)
Net loss from discontinued operations— (0.36)— (0.67)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(0.02)$(0.39)$0.06 $(0.73)
Net (loss) income per common share - diluted
Net (loss) income from continuing operations$(0.02)$(0.03)$0.06 $(0.06)
Net loss from discontinued operations— (0.36)— (0.67)
Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders$(0.02)$(0.39)$0.06 $(0.73)
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic60,178 59,748 60,129 60,027 
Effect of dilutive securities:
Common stock equivalents - Restricted stock and restricted stock shares— — 508 — 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted60,178 59,748 60,637 60,027 
Basic earningsnet (loss) income per common share is calculated using the weighted-averageweighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.

Diluted earningsnet (loss) income per common share considers the impact of potentially dilutive securities except in periods in which there is a net loss because the inclusion of the potential common shares would have an anti-dilutive effect. Diluted net (loss) income per common share, if any, gives effect to diluted stock options (calculated based on the treasury stock method),non-vested restricted stock shares purchased under the employee stock purchase plan and shares issuable upon debt or preferred stock conversion (calculated using anas-if converted method).

For both the three and six months ended January 31, 2018, approximately 0.52023, $0.8 million of interest expense, net of tax related to convertible debt and $0.5 million of preferred dividends were excluded from the numerator in the calculation of diluted net loss per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive. For the three months ended January 31, 2022, $0.7 million of interest expense, net of tax impact related to convertible debt and $0.5 million of preferred dividends were excluded from the numerator in the calculation of diluted net loss per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.
For the three months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, 24.7 million common stock equivalent shares (including those related to convertible debt and preferred stock) were excluded from the denominator in the calculation of diluted earningsnet loss per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.

For the three and six months ended January 31, 2017, approximately 14.22023, $1.6 million of interest expense, net of tax related to convertible debt and 14.5$1.1 million respectively,of preferred dividends were excluded from the numerator in the calculation of diluted net income per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive. For the six months ended January 31, 2022, $1.4 million of interest expense, net of tax impact related to convertible debt and $1.1 million of preferred dividends were excluded from the numerator in the calculation of diluted net loss per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.
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For the six months ended January 31, 2023, 24.2 million common stock equivalent shares (including those related to convertible debt and preferred stock) were excluded from the denominator in the calculation of diluted earningsnet income per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.

(15) SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

The following table summarizes share-based compensation expense related to employee stock options, employee stock purchases and employee and non-employeenon-vested and vested shares for For the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, which was allocated as follows:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Cost of revenue

  $1   $15   $12   $31 

Selling, general and administrative

   7,104    174    7,385    350 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $7,105   $189   $7,397   $381 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

During December 2017, the Board, upon the recommendation of the Special Committee and the Human Resources and Compensation Committee, of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”), approved equity grants to certain members of the Board, in each case effective upon the closing of the IWCO Acquisition and in consideration for current and future services to the Company and which are being accounted for in accordance with ASC 505-50, Equity—Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees. Certain of these non-employee awards are subject to market conditions in order to vest. Additionally, some of the awards are subject to shareholder approval. The expense for the three months ended January 31, 20182022, 24.7 million common stock equivalent shares (including those related to these non-employee awards was $6.6 million.

At January 31, 2018, there was an immaterial balanceconvertible debt and preferred stock) were excluded from the denominator in the calculation of total unrecognized compensation cost related to Stock Options issued under the Company’s plans. At January 31, 2018, there was approximately $1.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related tonon-vested share-based compensation awards under the Company’s plans.

(16) diluted net loss per share as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.

(14)COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)


Comprehensive income (loss) combines net income (loss) and other comprehensive items. Other comprehensive items represent certain amounts that are reported as components of stockholder’sstockholders' equity in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Accumulated other comprehensive items consist of the following:

   Foreign
currency
items
   Pension
items
   Unrealized
gains
(losses) on
securities
   Total 
   (In thousands) 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 31, 2017

  $7,522   $(3,376  $167   $4,313 

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   3,926    —      —      3,926 

Net unrealized holding gain on securities

   —      —      16    16 

Pension liability adjustments

   —      26    —      26 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net current-period other comprehensive income

   3,926    26    16    3,968 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at January 31, 2018

  $11,448   $(3,350  $183   $8,281 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(17) SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company has five operating segments: Americas; Asia; Europe; Direct Marketing; ande-Business. Direct Marketing is

Foreign
Currency
Items
Pension
Items
Total
(In thousands)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of July 31, 2022$6,063 $(1,923)$4,140 
Foreign currency translation adjustment1,818 — 1,818 
Pension liability adjustments— (1,078)(1,078)
Net current-period other comprehensive income1,818 (1,078)740 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of January 31, 2023$7,881 $(3,001)$4,880 
Foreign
Currency
Items
Pension
Items
Total
(In thousands)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of July 31, 2021$9,762 $(2,600)$7,162 
Foreign currency translation adjustment185 — 185 
Net current-period other comprehensive income185 — 185 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of January 31, 2022$9,947 $(2,600)$7,347 

During the year ended July 31, 2020, a Netherlands defined benefit pension plan was amended such that active participants no longer accrued benefits as of January 1, 2020, which resulted in a pre-tax curtailment gain of $2.4 million recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). At that time, the active plan participants were moved into a new operating segment which represents IWCO. Based ondefined benefit contribution pension plan. During the information providedsix months ended January 31, 2023, the Company recorded an increase of approximately $1.1 million to accrued pension liabilities for the defined benefit pension plan as it was determined that plan participants are entitled to unconditional indexation of benefits for as long as they remain in active service with the Company.

(15)SEGMENT INFORMATION

Subsequent to the Company’s chief operating decision-maker (“CODM”) for purposesdisposition of making decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance and quantitative thresholds,the Direct Marketing reportable segment in the IWCO Direct Disposal, the Company has determined that it has fourone reportable segments: Americas, Asia, Europe and Direct Marketing. In addition to its four reportable segments, the Company reports an All Other category. The All Other category primarily represents thee-Business operating segment.segment: Supply Chain. The Company also has Corporate-level activity, which consists primarily of costs associated with certain corporate administrative functions such as legal, finance and share-based compensation, and acquisition costs which are not allocated to the Company’sCompany's reportable segments.segment. The Corporate-level balance sheet information includes cash and cash equivalents, Notes payablesdebt and other assets and liabilities which are not identifiableallocated to the operations of the Company’sCompany's operating segments.segment. All significant intra-segment amounts have been eliminated.

Management evaluates segment performance based on segment net revenue and operating income (loss).


Management evaluates segment performance based on segment net revenue, operating income (loss) and “adjusted"adjusted operating income (loss)," which is defined as the operating income (loss) excluding net charges related to depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, long-lived asset impairment, share-based compensation acquisition related costs and restructuring. These items are excluded because they may be considered to be of anon-operational ornon-cash nature. Historically, the Company has recorded significant impairment and restructuring charges, and therefore management uses adjusted operating income (loss) to assist in evaluating the performance of the Company’sCompany's core operations.


Summarized financial information of the Company’sCompany's continuing operations by operating segment is as follows:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Net revenue:

        

Americas

  $13,764   $27,183   $28,603   $53,061 

Asia

   36,290    38,861    79,802    81,734 

Europe

   37,893    44,910    76,283    90,091 

Direct Marketing

   56,913    —      56,913    —   

All Other

   6,259    6,614    12,040    14,009 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $151,119   $117,568   $253,641   $238,895 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss):

        

Americas

  $(2,285  $(1,720  $(4,484  $(5,576

Asia

   15,730    2,312    19,899    4,089 

Europe

   (3,464   40    (6,324   (2,551

Direct Marketing

   (2,825   —      (2,825   —   

All Other

   (1,350   (889   (2,795   (545
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Segment operating income (loss)

   5,806    (257   3,471    (4,583

Corporate-level activity

   (10,382   (1,247   (11,877   (2,563
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating loss

   (4,576   (1,504   (8,406   (7,146
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense

   8,199    1,075    8,720    3,427 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss before income taxes

  $(12,775  $(2,579  $(17,126  $(10,573
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net revenue and operating loss associated with Direct Marketing is for the period from December 15, 2017 to January 31, 2018. The Direct Marketing operating loss includes certain purchase accounting adjustments associated with the IWCO acquisition.

   January 31,
2018
   July 31,
2017
 
   (In thousands) 

Total assets:

    

Americas

  $21,944   $21,876 

Asia

   51,805    63,819 

Europe

   57,039    64,639 

Direct Marketing

   646,840    —   

All Other

   20,020    20,703 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Sub-total - segment assets

   797,648    171,037 

Corporate

   72,462    110,261 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $870,110   $281,298 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 


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Table of Contents
Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Net revenue:
Supply Chain$50,781 $54,322 102,140 98,676 
Total segment net revenue50,781 54,322 $102,140 $98,676 
Operating income:
Supply Chain5,388 2,374 11,238 4,347 
Total segment operating income5,388 2,374 11,238 4,347 
Corporate-level activity(2,785)(2,323)(4,756)(3,725)
Total operating income2,603 51 6,482 622 
Total other expense, net(3,475)(814)(1,272)(2,053)
(Loss) income before income taxes$(872)$(763)$5,210 $(1,431)
January 31,
2023
July 31,
2022
(In thousands)
Total assets:
Supply Chain$126,913 $101,637 
Corporate29,199 36,112 
Total assets$156,112 $137,749 
Summarized financial information of the Company’sCompany's capital expenditures and depreciation expense for the Supply Chain reportable segment is as follows:
Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Capital expenditures$318 $463 $866 $826 
Depreciation expense465 545 924 1,175 
Summarized financial information of the Company's net revenue from external customers by group of servicesgeographic location is as follows:

   Three Months Ended
January 31,
   Six Months Ended
January 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 

Supply chain services

  $87,947   $110,954   $184,688   $224,886 

Direct Marketing

   56,913    —      56,913    —   

e-Business services

   6,259    6,614    12,040    14,009 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $151,119   $117,568   $253,641   $238,895 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
January 31,
Six Months Ended
January 31,
2023202220232022
(In thousands)
Mainland China$16,231 $19,424 $34,196 $35,390 
United States13,173 13,707 25,345 $24,153 
Czech7,535 3,990 13,295 6,757 
Singapore5,1024,75210,2349,916
Netherlands4,926 6,227 10,277 11,876 
Other3,8146,2228,79310,584
$50,781 $54,322 $102,140 $98,676 

(16)RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
As of January 31, 2018,2023, SPHG Holdings and its affiliates, including Steel Holdings, Handy & Harman Ltd. and Steel Partners Ltd., beneficially owned approximately $567.6 million49.8% of our outstanding capital stock, including the if-converted value of the Company’s long-lived assets were locatedSPHG Note and shares of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock that vote on an as-converted basis together with our common
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stock. Warren G. Lichtenstein, our Interim Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Chairman of our Board, is also the Executive Chairman of Steel Holdings GP. Glen Kassan, our Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and former Chief Administrative Officer, is an employee of Steel Services. Jack L. Howard, the President and a director of Steel Holdings GP, is also a director.
SPHGNote Transaction
On February 28, 2019, the Company entered into a SPHG Note Purchase Agreement with SPHG Holdings, whereby SPHG Holdings agreed to loan the Company $14.9 million in exchange for the U.S.A.SPHG Note. As of both January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2017, approximately $9.32022, SPHG Holdings held $14.9 million principal amount of the Company’s long-lived assets were located inSPHG Note. As of January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022, the U.S.A.

Fornet carrying value of the SPHG Note was $12.1 million and $11.0 million, respectively. During the three months ended January 31, 2018,2023 and 2022, the Company’s net revenues within U.S.A., China, Netherlands and Czech Republic were $72.0 million, $28.2 million, $16.5Company recognized interest expense of $0.8 million and $18.3$0.7 million, respectively. Forrespectively, associated with the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company’s net revenues within U.S.A., China, Netherlands and Czech Republic were $27.5 million, $31.9 million, $20.0 million and $21.7 million, respectively.

ForSPHG Note. During the six months ended January 31, 2018,2023 and 2022, the Company’s net revenues within U.S.A., China, Netherlands and Czech Republic were $87.1 million, $63.0 million, $31.8Company recognized interest expense of $1.6 million and $40.8$1.4 million, respectively. Forrespectively, associated with the six months ended January 31, 2017, the Company’s net revenues within U.S.A., China, Netherlands and Czech Republic were $54.3 million, $68.1 million, $36.8 million and $48.0 million, respectively.

(18) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

SPHG Note.

Preferred Stock Transaction and Warrant Repurchase

On December 15, 2017, the Company entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with SPHG Holdings, pursuant to which the Company issued 35,000 shares of the Company’sCompany's newly created Series C Convertible Preferred Stock par value $0.01 per share (the Preferred Stock), to SPHG Holdings at a price of $1,000 per share, for an aggregate purchase consideration of $35.0 million. The terms, rights, obligations and preferences of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock are set forth in athe Series C Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company, which has been filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

Under During each of the three months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company paid dividends of $0.5 million associated with the Series C Certificate of Designations,Convertible Preferred Stock. During each share of Preferred Stock can be converted into shares of the our Common Stock, at an initial conversion price equal to $1.96 per share, subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction. Holders of the Preferred Stock will also receive cumulative dividends at 6% per annum payable in cash or Common Stock. If at any time the closing bid price of the Company’s Common Stock exceeds 170% of the conversion price for at least five consecutive trading days (subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction),six months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company haspaid dividends of $1.1 million associated with the right to requireSeries C Convertible Preferred Stock.

On or after December 15, 2022, each holder of Preferred Stock can also require the Company to convert all,redeem its Preferred Stock in cash at a price equal to the Liquidation Preference (as defined in Series C Certificate of Designations), or any whole number,approximately $35.2 million. As of sharesJanuary 31, 2023, this right had not been exercised by holders of the Preferred Stock into Common Stock.

The Preferred Stock Transaction was approved and recommended to the Board by the Special Committee of the Board. Each member of the Special Committee was independent and not affiliated with Steel Holdings GP, which controls the power to vote and dispose of the securities held by SPHG Holdings and its affiliates.

STCN Management Services Agreement
On December 15, 2017, contemporaneously with the closing of the Preferred Stock Transaction,June 14, 2019, the Company entered into a Warrant Repurchase Agreementan agreement (the "STCN Management Services Agreement") with Steel Holdings,Services Ltd. ("Steel Services"), an affiliateindirect wholly-owned subsidiary of SPHG Holdings, pursuant to which the Company repurchased for $100 the warrant to acquire 2,000,000 shares of the Common Stock that the Company had previously issued to Steel Holdings. The Warrant, which was to expire in 2018, was terminated by the Company upon repurchase.

Management Services Agreement

December 24, 2014, the Company entered into a Management Services Agreement with SP Corporate Services LLC (“SP Corporate”),was effective as of JanuaryJune 1, 2015 (as amended, the “Management Services Agreement”). SP Corporate is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Steel Holdings and is a related party.2019. Pursuant to the STCN Management Services Agreement, SP Corporate providedSteel Services provides the Company and its subsidiaries with the non-exclusive services of certain employees, including certain executive officers and other corporate services.

The In connection with the IWCO Direct Disposal, the monthly fee under the STCN Management Services Agreement had an initial term of six months. On June 30, 2015,was reduced effective on the Company entered into an amendment that extendedDisposal Date primarily for the termportion of the Management Services Agreementfee attributable to December 31, 2015 and provided for automatic renewal for successive one year periods, unless and until terminated in accordance with the terms set forth therein, which include, under certain circumstances, the payment by the Company of certain termination fees to SP Corporate. On March 10, 2016, the Company entered into a Second Amendment to the Management Services Agreement with SPH Services, Inc. (“SPH Services”) pursuant to which SPH Services assumed rights and responsibilities of SP Corporate and the services provided by SPH Services to the Company were modified pursuant to the terms of the amendment. SPH Services is the parent of SP Corporate and an affiliate of SPHG Holdings. On March 10, 2016, the Company entered into a Transfer Agreement with SPH Services pursuant to which the parties agreed to transfer to the Company certain individuals who provide corporate services to the Company (the “Transfer Agreement”). SP Corporate and Steel Partners LLC merged with and into SPH Services, with SPH Services surviving. SPH Services has since changed its name to Steel Services Ltd. (“Steel Services”). On September 1, 2017, the Company entered into a Third Amendment to the Management Services Agreement, which reduced the fixed monthly fee paid by the Company to Steel Services under the Management Services Agreement from $175,000 per month to $95,641 per month. The monthly fee is subject to review and adjustment by agreement between the Company and Steel Services for periods commencing in fiscal 2016 and beyond. Additionally, the Company may be required to reimburse Steel Services and its affiliates for all reasonable and necessary business expenses incurred on our behalf in connection with the performance of the services under the Management Services Agreement, including travel expenses. The Management Services Agreement provides that, under certain circumstances, the Company may be required to indemnify and hold harmless Steel Services and its affiliates and employees from any claims or liabilities by a third party in connection with activities or the rendering of services under the Management Services Agreement.IWCO Direct. Total expenses incurred related to this agreementthe STCN Management Services Agreement for the three and six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 2022 were $0.4$0.6 million and $0.9 million, respectively. Total expenses incurred related to this agreementthe STCN Management Services Agreement for the three and six months ended January 31, 20172023 and 2022 were $0.5$1.2 million and $1.1$1.8 million, respectively. As of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, amounts due to SP Corporate and Steel Services werewas $0.5 million and $0.3$1.0 million, respectively.

The Related Party Transactions Committee

Termination of the Board (the “Related Party Transactions Committee”) approved the entry into the Management Services Agreement (and the first two amendments thereto) and the Transfer Agreement. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) approved the third amendment to the Management Services Agreement. The Related Party Transactions Committee held the responsibility to review, approve and ratify related party transactions from November 20, 2014, until October 11, 2016. On October 11, 2016, the Board adopted a Related Person Transaction Policy that is administered by the Audit Committee and applies to all related party transactions. As of October 11, 2016, the Audit Committee reviews all related party transactions on an ongoing basis and all such transactions must be approved or ratified by the Audit Committee.

On December 15, 2017, the Board, upon the recommendation of the Special Committee and the Compensation Committee, approved a total of 5.5 million restricted stock grants and market performance based restricted stock grants to non-employee directors Messrs. Howard, Fejes and Lichtenstein, the Executive Chairman of the Board, in each case effective upon the closing of the IWCO Acquisition (the “Grant Date”) and in consideration for current and future services to the Company. Messrs. Howard, Fejes and Lichtenstein are all affiliatedProposed Merger with Steel Holdings GP, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of


On November 15, 2022, Steel Holdings terminated the Merger Agreement with Steel Holdings. These awards were measured based on the fair market value on the Grant Date. Total expense incurred relating to these grantsSee Note 1 - "Nature of Operations" for the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 was $6.6 million.

Mutual Securities, Inc. (“Mutual Securities”) serves as the broker and record-keeper for all the transactions associated with the Trading Securities. An officer of SP Corporate and of the General Partner of Steel Holdings is a registered principal of Mutual Securities. Commissions charged by Mutual Securities are generally commensurate with commissions charged by other institutional brokers, and the Company believes its use of Mutual Securities is consistent with its desire to obtain best price and execution. During the three and six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, Mutual Securities received an immaterial amount in commissions associated with these transactions.

(19) further discussion.

(17)FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

MEASUREMENTS

ASC Topic 820,Fair Value Measurement, provides that fair value is an exit price, representing the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants based on the highest and best use of the asset or liability. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. ASC Topic 820 requires the Company to use valuation techniques to measure fair value that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. These inputs are prioritized as follows:

Level 1:Observable inputs such as quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets

Level 2:Other inputs that are observable directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or market-corroborated inputs

Level 3:Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data and which require the Company to develop its own assumptions about how market participants would price the assets or liabilities

Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets
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Level 2: Other inputs that are observable directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or market-corroborated inputs
Level 3: Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data and which require the Company to develop its own assumptions about how market participants would price the assets or liabilities
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, funds held for clients,restricted cash, accounts payable, current liabilities and the revolving line of credit under the Umpqua Revolver approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. The carrying value of capital lease obligations approximates fair value, as estimated by using discounted future cash flows based on the Company’s current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements. The fair values of the Company’s Trading Securities are estimated using quoted market prices. The defined benefit plans have assets invested in insurance contracts and bank-managed portfolios. Conservation of capital with some conservative growth potential is the strategy for the plans. The Company’s pension plans are outside the United States, where asset allocation decisions are typically made by an independent board of trustees. Investment objectives are aligned to generate returns that will enable the plans to meet their future obligations. The Company acts in a consulting and governance role in reviewing investment strategy and providing a recommended list of investment managers for each plan, with final decisions on asset allocation and investment manager made by local trustees.

Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following tables present the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, classified by fair value hierarchy:

       Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using 
(In thousands)  January 31, 2018   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 

Assets:

        

Money market funds

  $41,034   $41,034   $—     $—   
       Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using 
(In thousands)  July 31, 2017   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3 

Assets:

        

Marketable equity securities

  $11,898   $11,898   $—     $—   

Money market funds

   85,683    85,683    —      —   

There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 or 3 during any of the periods presented.

When available, quoted prices were used to determine fair value. When quoted prices in active markets were available, investments were classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. When quoted prices in active markets were not available, fair values were determined using pricing models, and the inputs to those pricing models were based on observable market inputs. The inputs to the pricing models were typically benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads and benchmark securities, among others.

Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

The Company’s only significant assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition were certain assets subject to long-lived asset impairment. The Company reviews the carrying amounts of these assets whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company’s financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, funds held for clients and debt, and are reflected in the financial statements at cost. With the exception of the Notes payable and long-term debt, cost approximates fair value for these items due to their short-term nature. We believe that the carrying value of our long-term debt approximates fair value because the stated interest rates of this debt is consistent with current market rates.

Included in Trading Securities in The carrying value of capital lease obligations approximates fair value, as estimated by using discounted future cash flows based on the accompanying balance sheetCompany's current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

Assets and Liabilities that are marketable equity securities. These instrumentsMeasured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following tables present the Company's financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022, classified by fair value hierarchy:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
(In thousands)January 31, 2023Level 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds$25,435 $25,435 $— $— 
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
(In thousands)July 31, 2022Level 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds$31,756 $31,756 $— $— 
There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 or 3 during any of the periods presented.
When available, quoted prices are valued atused to determine fair value. When quoted market prices in active markets.markets are available, investments are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. When quoted prices in active markets are not available, fair values are determined using pricing models, and the inputs to those pricing models are based on observable market inputs. The inputs to the pricing models are typically benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads and benchmark securities, among others.
Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
The Company reviews the carrying amounts of these assets whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the asset group or reporting unit is not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. The Company estimates the fair values of assets subject to impairment based on the Company's own judgments about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets and on observable market data, when available.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company's financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, customer deposits, accounts payable, restricted cash and debt, and are reflected in the consolidated financial statements at carrying value. With the exception of the SPHG Note and long-term debt, carrying value approximates fair value for these items due to their short-term nature. The Company believes that the carrying value of the liability component of the SPHG Note and our long-term debt approximates fair value because the stated interest rates of this debt is consistent with current market rates. Included in cash and cash equivalents in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheetsheets are money market funds. These are valued at quoted market prices in active markets.

The following table presents

27


Table of Contents
(18) SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
SPHG Convertible Note Amendment
On March 9, 2023, the Company’s Notes payable not carried at fair value:

   January 31, 2018   July 31, 2017     
   Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value   Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value   Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
   (In thousands)     

Notes payable

  $62,062   $66,188   $59,758   $63,852    Level 1 

The fair value of our Notes payable representsCompany and SPHG Holdings entered into an amendment to the value at which our lenders could trade our debt withinSPHG Note (the “SPHG Note Amendment”). Pursuant to the financial markets, and does not representSPHG Note Amendment, the settlement value of these long-term debt liabilities to us. The fair valuematurity date of the Notes payable could vary each period based on fluctuationsSPHG Note was extended six months to September 1, 2024. In addition, the Company repaid $1.0 million in market interest rates, as well as changes to our credit ratings. The Notes payable are traded and their fair values are based upon traded prices asprincipal amount of the reporting dates.

SPHG Note and will be required to repay an additional $1.0 million principal amount of the note on the three month anniversary of the SPHG Note Amendment. In connection with the SPHG Note Amendment, the Company paid SPHG Holdings a cash amendment fee of $0.1 million.


Investment Sale

The Company owns 9.8% of a privately-held software company (the "Investee"), which was acquired in the early 2000s and whose book value was written down to zero in prior years. The Company was not required to account for this Investee as an equity method investment.

On November 11, 2022, the Investee entered into an asset purchase agreement to sell substantially all of its assets for $40.8 million (the "Purchase Price"). The sale was approved by shareholders on December 15, 2022 and closed in February 2023. The Company received the first distribution of approximately $1.9 million on March 10, 2023, which was communicated as 66.8% of the total distribution to the Company. The Investee also communicated that the total distribution to the Company would be approximately $2.8 million, with the remaining amounts to be distributed in the Summer of 2023, Spring of 2024 and the Fall of 2024. When received, the Company will recognize the cash proceeds as other income on the condensed consolidated statement of operations.

Umpqua Credit Facility Amendment

On March 13, 2023, ModusLink and Umpqua Bank entered into an amendment to the Umpqua Revolver (the "Umpqua Revolver Amendment") to extend the expiration date of the facility to March 31, 2025. There were no fees associated with the extension.
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Table of Contents
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The matters discussed in this report contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, that involve risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical information provided herein may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “believes”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “expects”"believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks discussed in Part II—Item 1A below and elsewhere in this reportQuarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the risks discussed in the Company’sCompany's Annual Report on Form10-K filed with the SECSecurities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on October 16, 2017.November 9, 2022, and other subsequent reports filed with or furnished to the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’smanagement's analysis, judgment, belief or expectation only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof, except as required by applicable securities laws and regulations.

law.

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form10-Q.

Overview

Steel Connect, Inc. provides comprehensive physical and digital(the "Company") is a holding company operating through its wholly-owned subsidiary, ModusLink Corporation ("ModusLink" or "Supply Chain"), which serves the supply chain optimization services (the “Supply Chain Business”) that are designedmanagement market.

ModusLink provides digital and physical supply chain solutions to improve clients’ revenue, cost, sustainability and customer experience objectives. We provide services tomany of the world's leading companiesbrands across a wide spectrumdiverse range of industries, including consumer electronics, communications,telecommunications, computing and storage, software and content, consumer packaged goods, medical devices, software,retail and retail, among others. The Supply Chain Businessluxury and connected devices. These solutions are delivered through a combination of industry expertise, innovative service solutions, and integrated operations, are supported byproven business processes, an expansive global footprint and world-class technology. With a global footprint that includes more than 20 sites acrossspanning North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

region, the Company's solutions and services are designed to improve end-to-end supply chains in order to drive growth, lower costs, and improve profitability.


Disposition of IWCO Direct delivers highly-effective data-driven marketing solutions for its customers, which represent someHoldings, Inc. ("IWCO Direct" or "Direct Marketing")

Beginning in the second quarter of 2020, with the shutdown of the largest and most respected brands in the world. Its full range of services includes strategy, creative and production for multichannel marketing campaigns, along with one of the industry’s most sophisticated postal logistics programs for direct mail. Through its Mail-Gard® product, IWCO Direct also offers business continuity and disaster recovery services to protect against unexpected business interruptions, along with providing print and mail outsourcing services. IWCO Direct is the largest direct mail production provider in North America, with the largest platform of continuous digital print technology and a growing direct marketing agency service. Their solutions enable customers to improve Customer Lifetime Value (CLV), which in turn, has led to and longer customer relationships.

IWCO has administrative offices in Chanhassen, MN. and has three facilities in Chanhassen MN., one facility in Little Falls, MN., one facility in Warminster, PA. and two facilities in Hamburg PA.

ModusLink operates an integrated physical and digital supply chain system infrastructure that extends fromfront-end order management through distribution and returns management. Thisend-to-end solution enables clients to link supply and demand in real-time, improve visibility and performance throughout the supply chain, and provide real-time access to information for greater collaboration and making informed business decisions. We believe that our clients can benefit from our global integrated business solution, especially given the increased usage of connected devices and digitalized solutions.

Historically, a significant portion of our revenue from our Supply Chain Business has been generated from clients in the computer and software markets. These markets, while large in size, are mature and, as a result, gross margins in these markets tend to be lower than other markets the Company operates in. To address this, in additionU.S. economy due to the computerCOVID-19 pandemic, IWCO Direct’s business was significantly and software markets, we have expanded our sales focus to include additional markets such as communications and consumer electronics, with a long-term focus on expanding in growth industries, such as the connected home, and connected healthcare, among others. We believe these markets, and other verticals we operate in, may experience faster growth than our historical markets, and represent opportunities to realize higher gross margins on the services we offer. Companies in these markets often have significant need for a supply chain partner who will be an extension to their business models. We believe the scope of our service offerings, including value-added warehousing and distribution, repair and recovery, aftersales, returns management, financial management, entitlement management, contact center support, material planning and factory supply, ande-Business will increase the overall value of the supply chain solutions we deliver to our existing clients and to new clients.

Many of ModusLinks clients’ products are subject to seasonal consumer buying patterns. As a result, the services we provide to our clients are also subject to seasonality, with higher revenue and operating income typically being realized from handling our clients’ products during the first half of our fiscal year, which includes the holiday selling season. Furthermore, many of our clients’ have global operations and we believe they have been adversely impacted by continued economic pressures in certain global regions.

As a large portion of ModusLink’s revenue comes from outsourcing services provided to clients such as retail products and consumer electronics companies, our operating performance has been and may continue to be adversely affected by declinesa material reduction in customer mailing activities. Against this backdrop, the overall performance within these sectorsCompany held, on behalf of IWCO Direct, extensive discussions with Cerberus about amending and uncertainty affecting the world economy.extending IWCO Direct’s credit facility with Cerberus under which there was approximately $361 million outstanding as of January 31, 2022 that was to mature in December 2022. In addition, the dropCompany’s Board of Directors considered a range of strategic options to address the impending maturity. In mid-January 2022, it became apparent that it would not be possible to extend or refinance the credit facility prior to its maturity. In addition, short-term funding under the revolving credit facility became unavailable. IWCO Direct was in consumer demand for productsthe process of certain clients has hadimplementing the competitive improvement plan (“CIP”) intended to address the changing requirements of its customers and may continuemarkets. Despite initial favorable outcomes and improving prospects from the CIP, the Company was unable to haveamend IWCO Direct's credit facility or identify alternatives to refinance IWCO Direct’s indebtedness given the effectmagnitude of reducing our volumes and adversely affecting our revenue, gross margin and overall operating performance. Additionally, the markets for our services are generally very competitive, though we believe we have a compelling and differentiated offering duethat indebtedness relative to the value-added services we provide, our commitmentperformance of IWCO Direct’s business.


In light of these developments, the Board of Directors determined that it was in the best interests of the Company’s stockholders to client management,pursue an orderly and our global reach. We also face pressureconsensual disposition of IWCO Direct to the Cerberus-led investor group. Although the Board of Directors considered other alternatives for IWCO Direct, the Board of Directors concluded that such alternatives would not be viable and on February 25, 2022, the Company completed the disposition of IWCO Direct to the Cerberus-led investor group (the entire transaction being referred to as the “IWCO Direct Disposal”). The Company did not receive any cash consideration from our clientsthe Cerberus-led investor group in exchange for the disposition of IWCO Direct.

The Company deconsolidated IWCO Direct as of February 25, 2022 as it no longer held a controlling financial interest as of that date. The results of IWCO Direct are presented as a discontinued operation in all periods reported. Refer to continually realize efficiency gainsNote 1 - "Nature of Operations" and Note 4 - "Discontinued Operations" to the consolidated financial statements in order to help our clients maintain their profitability objectives. Increased competition and client demandsPart I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for efficiency improvements may result in price reductions, reduced gross margins and, in some cases, loss of market share. In addition, our profitability varies basedfurther information on the typesIWCO Direct Disposal.
Customers
29


Table of services we provide and the regions in which we perform them. Therefore, the mix of revenue derived from our various services and locations can impact our gross margin results. Also, form factor changes, which we describe as the reduction in the amount of materials and product components used in our clients’ completed packaged product, can also have the effect of reducing our revenue and gross margin opportunities. As a result of these competitive and client pressures the gross margins in our business are low. We have developed plans and will continue to monitor plans to address process improvements and realize other efficiencies throughout our global footprint with a goal to reduce cost, remove waste and improve our overall gross margins. There can be no assurance that these actions will improve gross margins. Increased competition as well as industry consolidation and/or low demand for our clients’ products and services may hinder our ability to maintain or improve our gross margins, profitability and cash flows. We must continue to focus on margin improvement, through implementation of our strategic initiatives, cost reductions and asset and employee productivity gains in order to improve the profitability of our business and maintain our competitive position. We generally manage margin and pricing pressures in several ways, including efforts to target new markets, expand and enhance our service offerings, improve the efficiency of our processes and to lower our infrastructure costs. We seek to lower our cost to service clients by moving work to lower-cost venues, consolidating and leveraging our global facility footprint, drive process and efficiency reforms and other actions designed to improve the productivity of our operations.

IWCO’s services include (a) development of direct mail marketing strategies (b) creative services to design direct mail (c) printing and compiling of direct mail pieces into envelopes ready for mailing (d) comingling services to sort mail produced for various customers, by destination to achieve postal savings (e) also business continuity and disaster recovery services to protect against unexpected business interruptions. The major markets served by IWCO include Financial Services, Multiple-System Operations (cable or direct-broadcast satellite TV systems) Insurance and to a lesser extent Subscription/ Services, Healthcare, Travel/Hospitality and other. Direct mail is a critical piece of marketing for most of its current customers. The customers served by IWCO include some of the biggest brands in the world with the top ten customers accounting for 52% of its revenues, with no single customer accounting for greater than 7% of its revenues included in the period from the acquisition date of December 15, 2017 to January 31, 2018. IWCO’s differentiators include but not limited to its capacity to satisfy Tier 1 marketers, provide attractive economics to its clients and provides innovation on various formats. Management believes that direct mail will remain an important part of its customer’s budgets for the foreseeable future.

Contents

Historically, a limited number of key clients have accounted for a significant percentage of ourthe Company's revenue. For the three months ended January 31, 2018, our top2023 and 2022, the Company's ten largest clients collectively accounted for approximately 48%85.9% and 81.5% of ourconsolidated net revenue. We expect to continue to deriverevenue, respectively. Two clients accounted for 47.9% and 10.4% of the vast majorityCompany's consolidated net revenue for the three months ended January 31, 2023, and two clients accounted for 26.3% and 16.2% of ourthe Company's consolidated net revenue from sales to a small numberfor the three months ended January 31, 2022. No other clients accounted for more than 10.0% of keythe Company's consolidated net revenue for the three months ended January 31, 2023 or 2022.
For the six months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company's ten largest clients accounted for approximately 83.8% and we plan to expand into new markets80.0% of consolidated net revenue, respectively. Two clients accounted for 42.1% and over time, diversify12.7% of the concentrationCompany's consolidated net revenue for six months ended January 31, 2023, and two clients accounted for 26.0% and 13.0% of the Company's consolidated net revenue across additional clients. for six months ended January 31, 2022. No other clients accounted for more than 10.0% of the Company's consolidated net revenue for the six months ended January 31, 2023 or 2022.
In general, we dothe Company does not have any agreements which obligate any client to buy a minimum amount of services from usit or designate usit as an exclusive service provider. Consequently, ourthe Company's net revenue is subject to demand variability by our clients. The level and timing of orders placed by ourthe Company's clients vary for a variety of reasons, including seasonal buying byend-users, the introduction of new technologies and general economic conditions. By diversifying into new markets and improving the operational support structure for ourits clients, we expectthe Company expects to offset the adverse financial impact such factors may bring about.

For

COVID-19 Update
The COVID-19 pandemic (in particular, the three months ended January 31, 2018,emergence of new variants of the Company reported net revenue of $151.1 million, operating loss of $4.6 million, loss before income taxes of $12.8 millionvirus across the globe) has caused, and net income of $65.1 million. Formay continue to cause, significant disruptions in the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company reported net revenue of $253.6 million, operating loss of $8.4 million, loss before income taxes of $17.1 millionU.S. and net income of $59.9 million.

For the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company reported net revenue of $117.6 million, operating loss of $1.5 million, loss before income taxes of $2.6 millionglobal economies. Measures taken by national and net loss of $2.9 million. For the six months ended January 31, 2017, the Company reported net revenue of $238.9 million, operating loss of $7.1 million, loss before income taxes of $10.6 million and net loss of $11.4 million.

At January 31, 2018, we had cash and cash equivalents of $106.4 million, and working capital of $70.6 million.

Basis of Presentation

The Company presents its financial information in accordance with accounting principles generally acceptedlocal governments in the United States and around the world restricted, and in certain jurisdictions continue to restrict, individuals’ daily activities and curtail or cease many businesses’ normal operations. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted, and may further adversely impact, nearly all aspects of our business and markets, including our workforce and the operations of our clients, suppliers, and business partners.


We experienced disruptions to our business continuity as a result of temporary closures of certain of ModusLink’s facilities in 2020 and 2021; however, these temporary closures did not have a significant impact on ModusLink’s operations.

Outbreaks in Mainland China throughout 2022 (March to May, July and September to October) led to temporary lockdown orders impacting several ModusLink facilities in China; however, ModusLink was able to resume operations at all facilities and the lockdowns have not had a significant impact to ModusLink’s operations through the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. If the situation continues at this level or worsens, however, it could result in a potential adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We continue to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 and other disease outbreaks on all aspects of our business and geographies, including its impact on our clients, employees, suppliers, vendors, business partners and distribution channels. We believe that such impacts could include the continued disruption to the demand for our businesses' products and services; disruptions in or closures of our business operations or those of our customers or suppliers; the impact of the global business and economic environment on liquidity and the availability of capital; increased costs and delays in payments of outstanding receivables beyond normal payment terms; supply chain disruptions; uncertain demand; and the effect of any initiatives or programs that we may undertake to address financial and operational challenges faced by our customers. Despite indications of economic recovery, the severity of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s business in the future is difficult to predict and will depend on a number of uncertain factors and trends. Such factors and trends include, but are not limited to: the emergence of new variant strains; the widespread use of vaccines; the impact of the global business and economic environment on liquidity and the availability of capital; the extent and severity of the impact on our customers and suppliers; and U.S. GAAP (or “GAAP”and foreign government actions that have been taken, or may be taken in the future, to mitigate adverse economic or other impacts or to mitigate the spread of the virus and its variants. The Company continues to monitor for any developments or updates to COVID-19 guidelines from public health and governmental authorities, as well as the protection of the health and safety of its personnel, and is continuously working to ensure that its health and safety protocols, business continuity plans and crisis management protocols are in place to help mitigate any negative impacts of COVID-19 and other disease outbreaks on the Company’s employees, business or operations.

Terminated Merger with Steel Holdings

On June 12, 2022, the Company, Steel Partners Holdings L.P. (“Steel Holdings”) and SP Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Steel Holdings (“Merger Sub”), entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which Merger Sub will merge with and into the Company (the “Merger”), with the Company surviving the Merger as a wholly
30


Table of Contents
owned subsidiary of Steel Holdings. The Merger Agreement provided that each share of the Company’s common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger (other than dissenting shares and shares owned by the Company, Steel Holdings or any of their respective subsidiaries) would, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, be converted into the right to receive (i) $1.35 in cash, without interest and (ii) one contingent value right to receive a pro rata share of the proceeds received by the Company, Steel Holdings or any of their affiliates with respect to the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or any portion of the assets currently owned by ModusLink within two years of the Merger’s closing date, to the extent such proceeds exceed $80 million plus certain related costs and expenses.

Steel Holdings and certain of its affiliates also entered into a Voting and Support Agreement, dated as of June 12, 2022 (the “Voting and Support Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, they agreed to vote all shares of common stock and Series C Convertible Preferred Stock beneficially owned by them in favor of the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the Merger and any alternative acquisition agreement approved by the Company's Board of Directors (acting on the recommendation of the special committee (the “Special Committee”) of independent and disinterested directors formed to consider and negotiate the terms and conditions of the Merger and to make a recommendation to our Board of Directors).

Our Board of Directors, acting on the unanimous recommendation of the Special Committee, and the Board of Directors of Steel Partner Holdings GP Inc., the general partner of Steel Holdings, approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement (such transactions, collectively, the “Transactions”) and resolved to recommend the stockholders adopt the Merger Agreement and approve the Transactions. The Special Committee, which is comprised solely of independent and disinterested directors of the Company who are unaffiliated with Steel Holdings, exclusively negotiated the terms of the Merger Agreement with Steel Holdings, with the assistance of its independent financial and legal advisors.

On November 15, 2022, Steel Holdings terminated the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement was terminated following the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company at which the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement was not approved by a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock not owned, directly or indirectly, by Steel Holdings, and Merger Sub, any other officer or director of the Company or any other person having any equity interest in, or any right to acquire any equity interest in, Merger Sub or any person of which Merger Sub is a direct or indirect subsidiary as required under the Merger Agreement. As a result of the termination of the Merger Agreement, the Voting and Support Agreement, dated as of June 12, 2022, by and among the Company, Steel Holdings and certain of its affiliates, automatically terminated pursuant to its terms.
Basis of Presentation
The Company has fiveone operating segments: Americas; Asia; Europe; Direct Marketing; ande-Business. The Company has foursegment which is the same as its reportable segments: Americas, Asia, Europe and Direct Marketing. In addition to its four reportable segments, the Company reports an All Other category. The All Other category primarily represents thee-Business operating segment.segment: Supply Chain. The Company also has Corporate-level activity, which consists primarily of costs associated with certain corporate administrative functions such as legal, finance and finance,share-based compensation, which are not allocated to the Company’sCompany's reportable segments.segment. The Corporate-level balance sheet information includes cash and cash equivalents, Notes payablesdebt and other assets and liabilities which are not identifiableallocated to the operations of the Company’sCompany's operating segments.

segment. All significant intercompany transactions and balancesintra-segment amounts have been eliminated in consolidation.

eliminated.

Results of Operations


Three Months Ended January 31,
(unaudited in thousands)
20232022
$ Change1
% Change1
Net revenue$50,781$54,322$(3,541)(6.5)%
Cost of revenue(37,719)(43,421)5,70213.1%
Gross profit13,06210,9012,16119.8%
Gross profit percentage25.7%20.1%5.6%
Selling, general and administrative(10,459)(9,994)(465)(4.7)%
Restructuring(856)856100.0%
Interest expense, net(848)(750)(98)(13.1)%
Other losses, net(2,627)(64)(2,563)(4004.7)%
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes(872)(763)(109)(14.3)%
Income tax benefit (expense)346(723)1,069147.9%
Net loss from continuing operations$(526)$(1,486)$96064.6%
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Table of Contents
1 Favorable (unfavorable) change
Three months ended January 31, 20182023 compared to the three months ended January 31, 2017

2022


Net Revenue:

   Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Total
Net
Revenue
  Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Total
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $13,764    9.1 $27,183    23.1 $(13,419  (49.4%) 

Asia

   36,290    24.0  38,861    33.1  (2,571  (6.6%) 

Europe

   37,893    25.1  44,910    38.2  (7,017  (15.6%) 

Direct Marketing

   56,913    37.7  —      0.0  56,913   —   

All Other

   6,259    4.1  6,614    5.6  (355  (5.4%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $151,119    100.0 $117,568    100.0 $33,551   28.5
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Net

During the three months ended January 31, 2023, net revenue increasedfor the Supply Chain segment decreased by approximately $33.6 million$3.5 million. The decrease in net revenue was driven by lower volumes associated with clients in the computing and consumer electronics markets during the three months ended January 31, 2018,2023 as compared to the same period in the prior year. This change in net revenue was primarily driven by the increase in revenue associated with the acquisition of IWCO, offset by decreased revenues from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificant impact on the Supply Chain segment's net revenues for the quarterthree months ended January 31, 20182023, as compared to the same period in the prior year.

During the three months ended January 31, 2018, net revenue in the Americas region decreased by approximately $13.4 million. This decrease in net revenue was primarily driven by decreased revenues from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. Within the Asia region, the net revenue decrease of approximately $2.6 million primarily resulted from lower revenues from programs in the consumer electronics market, partially offset by increase in revenues from a program in the computing industry. Within the Europe region, net revenue decreased by approximately $7.0 million primarily due to lower revenues from clients in the consumer electronics and computing industries. Net revenue for All Other decreased by approximately $0.4 million primarily due to lower revenues from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries.


Cost of Revenue:

   Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $14,330    104.1 $26,177    96.3 $(11,847  (45.3%) 

Asia

   28,935    79.7  32,085    82.6  (3,150  (9.8%) 

Europe

   37,792    99.7  41,135    91.6  (3,343  (8.1%) 

Direct Marketing

   47,505    83.5  —      0.0  47,505   —   

All Other

   5,607    89.6  6,973    105.4  (1,366  (19.6%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $134,169    88.8 $106,370    90.5 $27,799   26.1
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  


Cost of revenue consists primarily of expenses related to the cost of materials purchased in connection with the provision of supply chain management and direct marketing services, as well as costs for salaries and benefits, depreciation expense, severance, contract labor, consulting, paper for direct mailing, fulfillment and shipping, and applicable facilities costs. Total cost of revenue decreased by $5.7 million for the three months ended January 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily driven by a decrease in cost of materials as a result of the decrease in net revenue discussed above. Cost of revenue for the three months ended January 31, 20182023 included materials procured on behalf of our supply-chainSupply Chain clients of $55.0$21.1 million, as compared to $68.0$25.7 million for the same period in the prior year, a decrease of $13.0 million. Total cost of revenue increased$4.6 million, driven by $27.8lower volumes for clients in the computing and consumer electronics market. The remaining $1.1 million fordecrease is driven by lower labor costs, such as a decrease in salaries and wages and production costs, and due to severance charges in the three months ended January 31, 2018, as compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to the increase in cost of revenue associated with the acquisition of IWCO which included a $7.0 million a non-cash charge related to a fair value “step-up” to work-in-process inventory which was recognized during the three month period ended January 31, 2018, partially offset by lower material and labor costs associated with lower volume from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. 2022 that did not recur.

Gross marginProfit:

Gross profit percentage for the current quarter increased 560 basis points, to 11.2% from 9.5%25.7% as compared to 20.1% in the prior year quarter, primarily due to the acquisition of IWCO, partially offsetdriven by higher value added revenue for a reduction in revenuesmajor client in the Americascomputing and Europe. Forconsumer electronics market and to a lesser extent the impact of severance charges in the three months ended January 31, 2018, the Company’s gross margin percentages within the Americas, Asia, Europe and Direct Marketing segments were-4.1%, 20.3%, 0.3% and 16.5%, respectively, as compared to gross margin percentages within the Americas, Asia and Europe segments of 3.7%, 17.4% and 8.4%, respectively, for the same period of the prior year.2022 that did not recur. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificant impact on Supply Chain's gross margin for the quarter ended January 31, 2018.

In the Americas, the 7.8 percentage point decrease in gross margin, from 3.7% to-4.1%, was primarily due to declines in material costs and a reduction in force, offset by a corresponding unfavorable shift in volumes from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. In Asia, the 2.9 percentage point increase in gross margin, from 17.4% to 20.3%, was primarily due to product mix despite the decline in revenues. In Europe, the 8.1 percentage point decrease in gross margin, from 8.4% to 0.3%, was attributable to an unfavorable revenue mix associated with clients in the consumer electronics market. The gross margin for All Other was 10.4% for the three months ended January 31, 20182023 as compared to-5.4% for the same period ofin the prior year. This increase of 15.8 percentage points was due to a favorable revenue mix primarily associated with clients in the consumer products and computing industries.


Selling, General and Administrative Expenses:

   Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $1,719    12.5 $2,537    9.3 $(818  (32.2%) 

Asia

   4,317    11.9  4,119    10.6  198   4.8

Europe

   3,565    9.4  3,583    8.0  (18  (0.5%) 

Direct Marketing

   8,126    14.3  —      —     8,126   —   

All Other

   1,998    31.9  440    6.7  1,558   354.1
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Sub-total

   19,725    13.1  10,679    9.1  9,046   84.7

Corporate-level activity

   10,382     1,247     9,135   732.6
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $30,107    19.9 $11,926    10.1 $18,181   152.4
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  


Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of compensation and employee-related costs, sales commissions and incentive plans, information technology expenses, travel expenses, facilities costs, consulting fees, fees for professional services, depreciation expense, marketing expenses, share-based compensation expense, transaction costs, restructuring and public reporting costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses during the three months ended January 31, 20182023 increased by approximately $18.2$0.5 million as compared to the three-monthsame period ended January 31, 2017, primarilyin the prior year due to the additional selling,an increase in legal fees for Corporate-level activity. Selling, general and administrative expenses associated withduring the Direct Marketingthree months ended January 31, 2023 for the Supply Chain segment ($8.1 million), higher professional fees associated withdid not change significantly as compared to the acquisition of IWCO ($2.2 million), higher share-based compensation expense ($6.9 million) which are recorded as part of Corporate-level-activity, as well as other general and administrative costs.same period in the prior year. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificantdid not have a significant impact on selling, general and administrative expenses for the quarterthree months ended January 31, 2018.

Amortization2023 as compared to the same period in the prior year.


Restructuring:
During the fiscal year ended July 31, 2021, ModusLink implemented a strategic plan to reorganize its sales function and the e-Business operations. The restructuring charges associated with this plan were primarily composed of Intangible Assets:

The intangible asset amortizationemployee termination costs. In November 2021, ModusLink amended its strategic plan to include reorganizing its supply chain operations and recorded a restructuring charge of $4.1approximately $0.9 million during the three months ended January 31, 2018, relates to amortizable intangible assets acquired by the Company in connection with its acquisition of IWCO. Acquired intangible assets include trademarks, tradenames and customer relationships. The trademarks and tradenames intangible asset are being amortized on a straight line basis over a 3 year estimated useful life. The customer relationship intangible asset are being amortized on a double-declining basis over an estimated useful life of 15 years.

Restructuring, net:

   Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Three Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $—      0.0 $189    0.7 $(189  (100.0%) 

Asia

   —      0.0  345    0.9  (345  (100.0%) 

Europe

   —      0.0  152    0.3  (152  (100.0%) 

All Other

   4    0.1  90    1.4  (86  (95.6%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $4    0.0 $776    0.7 $(772  (99.5%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

The $0.8 million2022. There were no restructuring chargecosts recorded during the three months ended January 31, 20172023 which is driving the decrease in costs period over period.

Interest Expense:

Total interest expense increased by $0.1 million during the three months ended January 31, 2023 as compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily consisteddue to higher interest expense related to accretion of $0.2the discount on the 7.50% Convertible Senior Note due 2024 (the "SPHG Note").
Other Losses, Net:
32


Table of Contents
Other losses, net are primarily composed of foreign exchange losses, interest income, and sublease income.
The $2.6 million increase in other losses, net is primarily driven by a $3.0 million increase in foreign exchange losses between the current year quarter and the prior year quarter. The Company recorded $3.3 million of foreign exchange losses compared to $0.3 million $0.1 millionof foreign exchange losses during the three months ended January 31, 2023 and $0.1 million of employee-related costs2022, respectively. The increase in foreign exchange losses is primarily driven by unrealized losses incurred, particularly for changes in the Americas, Asia, EuropeChina Renminbi ande-Business, respectively, related to the workforce reduction of 18 employees in our global supply chain operations. Of this amount, $0.1 million related to contractual obligations.

Interest Income/Expense:

Singapore Dollar.

Income Tax Benefit (Expense):

During the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, interest expense totaled approximately $6.6 million and $2.1 million, respectively. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to2023, the additional debt associated with the acquisition of IWCO.

Other Gains (Losses), net:

The Company recorded foreign exchange gains (losses) of approximately $(1.4) million and $29 thousand during the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the three months ended January 31, 2018, the net gains primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $(2.3) million, $1.3 million and $(0.7) million in Corporate, Europe and Asia, respectively. For the three months ended January 31, 2017, the net gains primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $0.6 million, $(0.5) million and $(0.1) million in Corporate, Asia and Europe, respectively.

During the three months ended January 31, 2017, the Company recognized $1.0 million in net gains associated with its Trading Securities.

Income Tax Expense:

During the three months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recordedan income tax benefit of approximately $77.7$0.3 million as compared to $0.7 million in income tax expense of $0.7 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The income tax benefitdecrease in the current quarter is related to the reduction of the Company’s valuation allowance associated with the IWCO acquisition of approximately $79.9 million, partially offset by income tax expense is primarily due to lower taxable income in certainforeign jurisdictions, whereas compared to the Company operates, using the enacted tax rates in those jurisdictions.

prior year period.

The Company provides for income tax expense related to federal, state and foreign income taxes. The Company continues to maintain a full valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets in the U.S. and certain of its foreign subsidiaries due to the uncertainty of realizing such benefits.

Results

Loss from Continuing Operations:

Net loss from continuing operations for the three months ended January 31, 2023 decreased $1.0 million as compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year, driven by the $1.1 million favorable change in income taxes. Refer to discussion above for further details.
Loss from Discontinued Operations:
Net loss from discontinued operations for the three months ended January 31, 2022 was $21.5 million, and reflects the net loss for IWCO Direct. IWCO Direct was deconsolidated in February 2022, and as such, there was no activity from discontinued operations for the three months ended January 31, 2023. See Note 4 - "Discontinued Operations" to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 included of Operations

this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Six Months Ended January 31,
(unaudited in thousands)
20232022
$ Change1
% Change1
Net revenue$102,140$98,676$3,4643.5%
Cost of revenue(74,813)(78,369)3,5564.5%
Gross profit27,32720,3077,02034.6%
Gross profit percentage26.8%20.6%6.2%
Selling, general and administrative(20,845)(18,829)(2,016)(10.7)%
Restructuring(856)856100.0%
Interest expense, net(1,674)(1,512)(162)(10.7)%
Other gains (losses), net402(541)943174.3%
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes5,210(1,431)6,641464.1%
Income tax expense(779)(1,038)25925.0%
Net income (loss) from continuing operations$4,431$(2,469)$6,900279.5%
1 Favorable (unfavorable) change
Six months ended January 31, 20182023 compared to the six months ended January 31, 2017

2022

Net Revenue:

   Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Total
Net
Revenue
  Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Total
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $28,603    11.3 $53,061    22.2 $(24,458  (46.1%) 

Asia

   79,802    31.5  81,734    34.2  (1,932  (2.4%) 

Europe

   76,283    30.1  90,091    37.7  (13,808  (15.3%) 

Direct Marketing

   56,913    22.4  —      0.0  56,913   —   

All Other

   12,040    4.7  14,009    5.9  (1,969  (14.1%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $253,641    100.0 $238,895    100.0 $14,746   6.2
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Net revenue increased by approximately $14.8 million during

During the six months ended January 31, 2018,2023, net revenue for the Supply Chain segment increased by approximately $3.5 million as compared to the same period in the prior year. This changeincrease in net revenue was primarily driven by the increase in revenueoverall higher volume associated with the acquisition of IWCO, offset by decreased revenues from clients in the computing and consumer electronics and consumer products industries.markets as compared to the same period in the prior year, along
33


Table of Contents
with new business revenue. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificant impact on the Supply Chain segment's net revenues for the quartersix months ended January 31, 20182023, as compared to the same period in the prior year.

During the six months ended January 31, 2018, net revenue in the Americas region decreased by approximately $24.5 million. This decrease in net revenue was primarily driven by decreased revenues from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. Within the Asia region, the net revenue decrease of approximately $1.9 million primarily resulted from lower revenues from programs in the consumer electronics market, partially offset by increase in revenues from a program in the computing industry. Within the Europe region, net revenue decreased by approximately $13.8 million primarily due to lower revenues from clients in the consumer electronics industry. Net revenue for All Other decreased by approximately $2.0 million primarily due to lower revenues from clients in the consumer electronics industry.


Cost of Revenue:

   Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $29,632    103.6 $52,965    99.8 $(23,333  (44.1%) 

Asia

   63,960    80.1  67,714    82.8  (3,754  (5.5%) 

Europe

   75,520    99.0  84,392    93.7  (8,872  (10.5%) 

Direct Marketing

   47,505    83.5  —      —     47,505   —   

All Other

   11,000    91.4  13,293    94.9  (2,293  (17.2%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $227,617    89.7 $218,364    91.4 $9,253   4.2
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  


Cost of revenue consists primarily of expenses related to the cost of materials purchased in connection with the provision of supply chain management and direct marketing services, as well as costs for salaries and benefits, depreciation expense, severance, contract labor, consulting, paper for direct mailing, fulfillment and shipping, and applicable facilities costs. Cost of revenue for the six months ended January 31, 20182023 included materials procured on behalf of our supply-chainSupply Chain clients of $115.6$40.4 million, as compared to $136.9$44.7 million for the same period in the prior year, a decrease of $21.3 million.$4.3 million, driven by lower costs on programs launched in the prior year period along with lower material costs related to programs that ended during the current year period. Total cost of revenue increaseddecreased by $9.3$3.6 million for the six months ended January 31, 2018,2023, as compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to lowerthe decrease in material andcosts discussed above, offset partially by higher labor costs associated with lower volume from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries, offset by an increase in costas a result of overall higher revenue associated with the acquisition of IWCO. volume.

Gross marginProfit:

Gross profit percentage for the current quarter increased to 10.3% from 8.6% in the prior year quarter, primarily due to the acquisition of IWCO, partially offset by a reduction in revenues in the Americas and Europe. For the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company’s gross margin percentages within the Americas, Asia, Europe and Direct Marketing segments were-3.6%, 19.9%, 1.0% and 16.5%, respectively,2023 increased 620 basis points, to 26.8% as compared to gross margin percentages within the Americas, Asia and Europe segments of 0.2%, 17.2% and 6.3%, respectively,20.6% for the same period ofsix months ended January 31, 2022, driven by an increase in value added revenue for a major client in the prior year.computing and consumer electronics market. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificant impact on Supply Chain's gross margin for the quarter ended January 31, 2018.

In the Americas, the-3.8 percentage point decline in gross margin, from 0.2% to-3.6%, was primarily due to declines in material costs and a reduction in force, offset by a corresponding unfavorable shift in volumes from clients in the consumer electronics and consumer products industries. In Asia, the 2.7 percentage point increase in gross margin, from 17.2% to 19.9%, was primarily due to product mix despite a decline in revenues. In Europe, the 5.3 percentage point decrease in gross margin, from 6.3% to 1.0%, was attributable to an unfavorable revenue mix associated with clients in the consumer electronics market. The gross margin for All Other was 8.6% for the six months ended January 31, 2018 as compared to 5.1% for the same period of the prior year. This increase of 3.5 percentage points was due to a favorable revenue mix primarily associated with clients in the consumer products and computing industries.

2023.


Selling, General and Administrative Expenses:

   Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $3,428    12.0 $5,186    9.8 $(1,758  (33.9%) 

Asia

   8,634    10.8  9,077    11.1  (443  (4.9%) 

Europe

   7,085    9.3  7,557    8.4  (472  (6.2%) 

Direct Marketing

   8,126    14.3  —      —     8,126   —   

All Other

   3,824    31.8  1,144    8.2  2,680   234.3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Sub-total

   31,097    12.3  22,964    9.6  8,133   35.4

Corporate-level activity

   11,877     2,563     9,314   363.4
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $42,974    16.9 $25,527    10.7 $17,447   68.3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  


Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of compensation and employee-related costs, sales commissions and incentive plans, information technology expenses, travel expenses, facilities costs, consulting fees, fees for professional services, depreciation expense, marketing expenses, share-based compensation expense, transaction costs, restructuring and public reporting costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses during the six months ended January 31, 20182023 increased by approximately $17.4$2.0 million as compared to the six monthsame period ended January 31, 2017, primarily due toin the additional selling,prior year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses associated withfor the Direct MarketingSupply Chain segment ($8.1 million), higherincreased $1.0 million primarily due to bad debt expense recorded for a client in the consumer products industry in first quarter of fiscal year 2023. Corporate-level activity increased $1.0 million primarily due to an increase in legal and other professional fees associated with the acquisition of IWCO ($2.2 million), higher share-based compensation expense ($6.9 million) which are recorded as part of Corporate-level-activity, as well as other general and administrative costs.fees. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates had an insignificantdid not have a significant impact on selling, general and administrative expenses for the quartersix months ended January 31, 2018.

Amortization2023, as compared to the same period in the prior year.


Restructuring:
During the fiscal year ended July 31, 2021, ModusLink implemented a strategic plan to reorganize its sales function and the e-Business operations. The restructuring charges associated with this plan were primarily composed of Intangible Assets:

The intangible asset amortizationemployee termination costs. In November 2021, ModusLink amended its strategic plan to include reorganizing its supply chain operations and recorded a restructuring charge of $4.1approximately $0.9 million during the six months ended January 31, 2018, relates to amortizable intangible assets acquired by the Company in connection with its acquisition of IWCO. Acquired intangible assets include trademarks, tradenames and customer relationships. The trademarks and tradenames intangible asset are being amortized on a straight line basis over a 3 year estimated useful life. The customer relationship intangible asset are being amortized on a double-declining basis over an estimated useful life of 15 years.

Restructuring, net:

   Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2018
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  Six Months
Ended
January 31,
2017
   As a %
of Segment
Net
Revenue
  $ Change  % Change 
   (In thousands) 

Americas

  $27    0.1 $486    0.9 $(459  (94.4%) 

Asia

   1    0.0  854    1.0  (853  (99.9%) 

Europe

   2    0.0  693    0.8  (691  (99.7%) 

All Other

   11    0.1  117    0.8  (106  (90.6%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

Total

  $41    0.0 $2,150    0.9 $(2,109  (98.1%) 
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

  

The $2.2 million2022. There were no restructuring chargecosts recorded during the six months ended January 31, 20172023, which is driving the decrease in costs period over period.

Interest Expense:
Total interest expense during the six months ended January 31, 2023 increased $0.2 million as compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily consisteddue to higher interest expense related to accretion of the discount on the SPHG Note.
Other Gains (Losses), Net:
Other gains (losses), net are primarily composed of foreign exchange gains (losses), interest income and sublease income. The $0.9 million increase in other gains (losses), net is primarily driven by $0.5 million increase in interest income, and $0.4 million $0.7 million, $0.6 million and $0.1 million of employee-related costsincrease in sublease income in the Americas, Asia, Europe ande-Business, respectively, relatedsix months ended January 31, 2023 as compared to the workforce reduction of 68 employeessame period in our global supply chain. Of this amount, $0.4 million relatedthe prior year. Foreign exchange gains (losses) did not change significantly as compared to contractual obligations.

Interest Income/the same period in the prior year.

Income Tax Expense:


During the six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, interest income was $0.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively.

During the six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, interest expense totaled approximately $8.7 million and $4.1 million, respectively. The increase in interest expense primarily due to the additional debt associated with the acquisition of IWCO.

Other Gains (Losses), net:

The Company recorded foreign exchange gains (losses) of approximately $(2.1) million and $0.4 million during the six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the six months ended January 31, 2018, the net gains primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $(2.2) million, $1.0 million and $(1.1) million in Corporate, Europe and Asia, respectively. For the six months ended January 31, 2017, the net gains primarily related to realized and unrealized gains (losses) from foreign currency exposures and settled transactions of approximately $1.3 million, $(0.4) million and $(0.4) million in Corporate, Asia and Europe, respectively.

During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recognized $2.7 million in netnon-cash losses associated with its Trading Securities. During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recognized $4.6 million in net cash gains associated with its Trading Securities.

Income Tax Expense:

During the six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company recorded income tax benefit of approximately $76.6 million. During the six months ended January 31, 2017,2023, the Company recorded income tax expense of approximately $1.8 million.$0.8 million as compared to $1.0 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year. The income tax benefit during the six months ended January 31, 2018 is related to the reduction of the Company’s valuation allowance associated with the IWCO acquisition of approximately $79.9 million partially offset bydecrease in income tax expense is primarily due to lower taxable income in certainforeign jurisdictions, whereas compared to the Company operates, using the enacted tax rates in those jurisdictions.

prior year period.

34


Table of Contents
The Company provides for income tax expense related to federal, state and foreign income taxes. The Company continues to maintain a full valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets in the U.S. and certain of its foreign subsidiaries due to the uncertainty of realizing such benefits.

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations:

Net income from continuing operations for the six months ended January 31, 2023 increased $6.9 million, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in net income from continuing operations is primarily due to the increase in gross profit, a decrease in restructuring and income tax expense, and an increase in other gains, net, partially offset by an increase in SG&A expenses. Refer to explanations above for further details regarding specific increases or decreases.
Loss from Discontinued Operations:
Net loss from discontinued operations for the six months ended January 31, 2022 was $40.0 million, and reflects the net loss for IWCO Direct. IWCO Direct was deconsolidated in February 2022, and as such, there was no activity from discontinued operations for the six months ended January 31, 2023. See Note 4 - "Discontinued Operations" to the consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 included of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Liquidity and Capital Resources

Anticipated Sources and Uses of Cash Flow
Historically, the Company has financed its operations and met its capital requirements primarily through funds generated from operations, the sale of ourit securities, and borrowings from lending institutions. Asinstitutions and sale of January 31, 2018, the Company had available cash and cash equivalents of $106.4 million. As of January 31, 2018, the Company had approximately $27.0 million of cash and cash equivalents held outside of the U.S. Of this amount, approximately $2.5 million is considered permanently invested due to certain restrictions under local laws, and $24.5 million isfacilities that were not subject to permanent reinvestment. fully utilized. The following table summarizes our liquidity:
January 31,
2023
(In thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents$62,427 
Readily available borrowing capacity under Umpqua Revolver11,890 
$74,317 
Due to the Company’schanges reflected in the U.S. net operating

loss carryforwardTax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017 ("U.S. Tax Reform"), there is no U.S. tax payable upon repatriating the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries considered not subject to permanent investment. Foreign withholding taxes would range from 0% to 10% on any repatriated funds.

For the Company, earnings and profits have been calculated at each subsidiary. The Company’sCompany's foreign subsidiaries are in an overall net deficit for earnings and profits purposes. As such, no adjustment has beenwas made to U.S. taxable income in 2017the six months ended January 31, 2023 relating to this aspect of the new tax law.U.S. Tax Reform. In future years, under the new tax law the Company will be able to repatriate its foreign earnings without incurring additional U.S. tax as a result of a 100% dividends received deduction. The Company believes that any future withholding taxes or state taxes associated with such a repatriation would not be minor.

On June 30, 2014, two directmaterial.

Consolidated excess working capital was $32.6 million as of January 31, 2023, as compared to $26.0 million at July 31, 2022. Included in excess working capital were cash and wholly owned subsidiariescash equivalents of $62.4 million as of January 31, 2023 and $53.1 million at July 31, 2022. The increase in excess working capital was primarily driven by higher cash and cash equivalents as a result of increased collections on accounts receivable. Sources and uses of cash for the six months ended January 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in the prior year, are as follows:

Six months ended January 31,
20232022
(In thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities$9,588 $(2,722)
Net cash used in investing activities$(850)$(826)
Net cash used in financing activities$(1,112)$(1,110)
Operating Activities: We generated cash of $9.6 million from operating activities during the six months ended January 31, 2023, an improvement of $12.3 million compared with $2.7 million used in operating activities during the six months ended January 31, 2022. The Company's future cash flows related to operating activities are dependent on several factors, including
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profitability, accounts receivable collections, effective inventory management practices and optimization of the credit terms of certain vendors of the Company, (the ModusLink Borrowers) entered into a revolving credit and security agreement (the Credit Agreement), as borrowers and guarantors, with PNC Bank and National Association, as lender and as agent, respectively. The Credit Agreement has a five (5) year term which expires on June 30, 2019. It includes a maximum credit commitment of $50.0 million, is available for letters of credit (with a sublimit of $5.0 million) and has a $20.0 million uncommitted accordion feature. The actual maximum credit available under the Credit Agreement varies from time to time and is determined by calculating the applicable borrowing base, which is based upon applicable percentagesoverall performance of the valuestechnology sector impacting the Supply Chain segment. The change in cash provided by operating activities as compared to cash used in operating activities the prior fiscal year was primarily due to an increase in net income of eligible$6.9 million and an increase in accounts receivable collections of $9.4 million, offset by an increase in payments on outstanding accounts payable of $6.6 million.
Investing Activities: Net cash used in investing activities was $0.9 million and eligible inventory minus reserves determined by$0.8 million during the Agent (including other reserves that the Agent may establish from timesix months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and was primarily related to time in its permitted discretion), all as specifiedcapital expenditures. The slight increase was primarily due to lower capital spending in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement contains certain customary negative covenants, which include limitations on mergers and acquisitions,prior year as the sale of assets, liens, guarantees, investments, loans, capital expenditures, dividends, indebtedness, changes in the nature of business, transactions with affiliates, the creation of subsidiaries, changes in fiscal year and accounting practices, changes to governing documents, compliance with certain statutes, and prepayments of certain indebtedness. The Credit Agreement also contains certain customary affirmative covenants (including periodic reporting obligations) and events of default, including upon a change of control. The Credit Agreement requires compliance with certain financial covenants providing for maintenance of specified liquidity, maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and/or maintenance of a maximum leverage ratio following the occurrence of certain events and/or prior to taking certain actions. For greater clarity, if the undrawn availability, as more fully described in the Credit Agreement, is either equal to or less than $10.0 million, or the aggregate principal balanceresult of the loans plusCOVID-19 pandemic.
Financing Activities: Net cash used in financing activities was $1.1 million during both the undrawn amount of all letters of credit in each case outstanding on any date is equal to or greater than $30.0 million; then compliance with the minimum fixed charge coverage ratio is required. If triggered, the minimum fixed charge coverage ratio to be maintained, as of the end of each fiscal month, for the trailing period of twelve consecutive fiscalsix months then ended would be not less than 1.0 to 1.0. As of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, and primarily consisted of $1.1 million of preferred dividend payments in both periods.
Debt and Financing Arrangements

Following is a summary of Company’s outstanding debt and financing agreements and preferred stock. Refer to Note 9 – “Debt” and Note 16 – “Related Party Transactions” to the Company did not have any balance outstandingconsolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on the PNC Bank credit facility.

Form 10-Q for further information.

7.50% Convertible Senior Note

On March 18, 2014,February 28, 2019, the Company entered into an indenture (the Indenture) with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, relating to the Company’s issuance of $100 million of 5.25%that certain 7.50% Convertible Senior NotesNote Due 2024 Purchase Agreement with SPHG Holdings whereby SPHG Holdings loaned the Company $14.9 million in exchange for a 7.50% Convertible Senior Note due 2024 (the Notes)"SPHG Note"). The Notes bearSPHG Note bears interest at the fixed rate of 5.25%7.50% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning on September 1, 2014.2019. On March 9, 2023, the Company and SPHG Holdings entered into an amendment to the SPHG Note (the “SPHG Note Amendment”). Pursuant to the SPHG Note Amendment, the maturity date of the SPHG Note was extended six months to September 1, 2024. In addition, the Company repaid $1.0 million in principal amount of the SPHG Note and will be required to repay an additional $1.0 million principal amount of the note on the three month anniversary of the SPHG Note Amendment. In connection with the SPHG Note Amendment, the Company paid SPHG Holdings a cash amendment fee of $0.1 million. The NotesSPHG Note will mature on MarchSeptember 1, 2019,2024 (the "SPHG Note Maturity Date"), unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder in accordance with theirits terms prior to such maturity date. Holders

At its election, the Company may pay some or all of the Notes may convert allinterest due on each interest payment date by increasing the principal amount of the SPHG Note in the amount of such interest due or any portion thereof (such payment of their notes, in multiples of $1,000interest by increasing the principal amount at their option at any time prior to the close of business or the business day immediately preceding the maturity date. Each $1,000 of principal of the Notes will initially be convertible into 166.2593 shares of our common stock, which is equivalentSPHG Note referred to an initial conversion price of approximately $6.01 per share, subject to adjustment uponas "PIK Interest"), with the occurrence of certain events, or, if the Company obtains the required consent from its stockholders, into sharesremaining portion of the Company’s common stock, cash or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock,interest due on such interest payment date (or, at the Company’s election. IfCompany's election, the Company has received stockholder approval, and it electsentire amount of interest then due) to settle conversions throughbe paid in cash by the Company. Following an increase in the principal amount of the SPHG Note as a result of a payment of cash orPIK Interest, the SPHG Note will bear interest on such increased principal amount from and after the date of such payment or delivery of a combination of cash and shares, the Company’s conversion obligation will be based on the volume weighted average prices (“VWAP”) of its common stock for each VWAP trading day in a 40 VWAP trading day observation period. The Notes and any of the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion have not been registered. Holders will havePIK Interest. SPHG Holdings has the right to require the Company to repurchase their Notes,the SPHG Note upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes, subject to certain conditions, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the NotesSPHG Note plus accrued and unpaid interest, upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes, subject to certain conditions. No fundamental changes occurred during the three months ended January 31, 2018. The Company may not redeem the Notes prior to the maturity date, and no sinking fund is provided for the Notes.interest. The Company will have the right to elect to cause the mandatory conversion of the NotesSPHG Note in whole, and not in part, at any time on or after March 6, 2017,2022, subject to certain conditions including that the stock price of the Company exceeds a certain threshold. SPHG Holdings has the right, at its option, prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding the SPHG Note Maturity Date, to convert the SPHG Note or a portion thereof that is $1,000 or an integral multiple thereof, into shares of common stock (if the Company has not received a required stockholder approval) or cash, shares of common stock or a combination of cash and shares of common stock, as applicable (if the Company has received a required stockholder approval), at an initial conversion rate of 421.2655 shares of common stock, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $2.37 per share (subject to adjustment as provided in the SPHG Note) per $1,000 principal amount of the SPHG Note (the "Conversion Rate"), subject to, and in accordance with, the settlement provisions of the SPHG Note. For any conversion of the SPHG Note, if the last reported sale priceCompany is required to obtain and has not received approval from its stockholders in accordance with Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5635 to issue 20% or more of itsthe total shares of common stock has been at least 130%outstanding upon conversion (including upon any mandatory conversion) of the SPHG Note prior to the relevant conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive), includingdate (or, if earlier, the 45th scheduled trading day immediately preceding the SPHG Note Maturity Date), the Company shall deliver to the converting holder, in respect of each $1,000 principal amount of the SPHG Note being converted, a number of shares of common stock determined by reference to the Conversion Rate, together with a cash payment, if applicable, in lieu of delivering any fractional share of common stock based on the volume weighted average price (VWAP) of its common stock on the relevant conversion date, on which the Company notifies holders of its election to mandatorily convert the Notes, during any 30 consecutive trading day period ending on, and including, the tradingthird business day immediately precedingfollowing the date on which the Company notifies holders of its election to mandatorily convert the notes.relevant conversion date. As of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017, the principal amount2022, outstanding debt in both periods consisted of the Notes was $67.6$14.9 million for both periods.7.50% Convertible Senior Note due March 1, 2024. As
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of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, the net carrying value of the NotesSPHG Note was $62.1$12.1 million, and $59.8$11.0 million, respectively.


Umpqua Revolver

On March 16, 2022, ModusLink, as borrower, submitted a notice of termination to MidCap Financial Trust for its $12.5 million revolving credit facility and entered into a new credit agreement with Umpqua Bank as lender and as agent. There was no balance outstanding on the Midcap Credit Facility of at the time of its termination. The Umpqua Revolver provides for a maximum credit commitment of $12.5 million and a sublimit of $5.0 million for letters of credit and expires on March 16, 2024. Steel Connect, Inc. (“Parent”) is not a borrower or a guarantor under the Umpqua Revolver. Under the Umpqua Revolver, ModusLink is permitted to make distributions to the Parent, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $10.0 million in any fiscal year. On March 13, 2023, ModusLink and Umpqua Bank entered into an amendment to the Umpqua Revolver to extend its expiration date to March 30, 2025.
Cerberus Credit Facility
The Cerberus Credit Facility consisted of a term loan facility (the “Cerberus Term Loan”) and a $25 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Facility”) (together the “Cerberus Credit Facility”) which was to mature on December 15, 2022. On February 25, 2022, the Company transferred all of its interests in IWCO Direct and the financial obligations of the Cerberus Credit Facility as part of the IWCO Direct Disposal. As a result, the Company has no debt or access to future borrowings under the Cerberus Credit Facility.
Preferred Stock

On December 15, 2017, MLGS, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company entered into a FinancingPreferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the Financing Agreement)"Purchase Agreement") with SPHG Holdings, pursuant to which the Company issued 35,000 shares of the Company's newly created Series C Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per shares, or the Preferred Stock, to SPHG Holdings at a price of $1,000 per share, for an aggregate purchase consideration of $35.0 million (the "Preferred Stock Transaction"). The terms, rights, obligations and preferences of the Preferred Stock are set forth in a Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company (the "Series C Certificate of Designations"), by and amongwhich has been filed with the MLGS (asSecretary of State of the State of Delaware.

Under the Series C Certificate of Designations, each share of Preferred Stock can be converted into shares of the Company's common stock at an initial borrower), Instant Web, LLC, a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiaryconversion price equal to $1.96 per share, subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction. Holders of IWCO (as Borrower), IWCO, and certainthe Preferred Stock will also receive dividends at 6% per annum payable, at the Company's option, in cash or common stock. If at any time the closing bid price of IWCO’s subsidiaries (together with IWCO, the Guarantors)Company's common stock exceeds 170% of the conversion price for at least five consecutive trading days (subject to appropriate adjustments for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or similar transaction), the lenders from timeCompany has the right to time party thereto, and Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, as collateral agent and administrative agent for the lenders. MLGS was the initial borrower under the Financing Agreement, but immediately upon the consummationrequire each holder of Preferred Stock to convert all, or any whole number, of shares of the IWCO Acquisition,Preferred Stock into common stock.

Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events such as described above, Borrower became the borrower under the Financing Agreement

The Financing Agreement provides for $393.0 million term loan facility (the Term Loan) and a $25.0 million revolving credit facility (collectively, the Cerberus Credit Facility). Proceedsliquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Cerberus Credit Facility were used (i) to finance a portionCompany, either voluntary or involuntary, or the merger or consolidation of the IWCO Acquisition, (ii) to repay certain existing indebtednessCompany or significant subsidiary, or the sale of substantially all of the Borrowerassets or capital stock of the Company or a significant subsidiary, the holders of the Preferred Stock are entitled to receive, prior and its subsidiaries, (iii) for working capital and general corporate purposes and (iv)in preference to pay fees and expenses relatedany distribution of any of the assets or funds of the Company to the Financing Agreement andholders of other equity or equity equivalent securities of the IWCO Acquisition. The Cerberus Credit Facility has a maturityCompany other than the Preferred Stock by reason of five years. Borrowings under the Cerberus Credit Facility bear interest, at the Borrower’s option, at a Reference Rate plus 3.75% or a LIBOR Rate plus 6.5%, each as defined the Financing Agreement. The initial interest rate under the Cerberus Credit Facility will be at the LIBOR Rate option. The Term Loan under the Cerberus Credit Facility is repayable in consecutive quarterly installments, each of which will be intheir ownership thereof, an amount per share in cash equal to the sum of (i) 100% of the stated value per quartershare of $1,500,000Preferred Stock (initially $1,000 per share) then held by them (as adjusted for any stock dividend, stock split, stock combination, reclassification or other similar transactions with respect to the Preferred Stock), plus (ii) 100% of all declared but unpaid dividends, and all accrued but unpaid dividends on each such installment to be due and payable,share of Preferred Stock, in arrears, oneach case as the last daydate of each calendar quarter commencing on March 31, 2018 and ending on the earlier of (a)triggering event.


On or after December 15, 2022, and (b) uponeach holder of Preferred Stock can also require the paymentCompany to redeem its Preferred Stock in full of all obligations undercash at a price equal to the Financing Agreement and the termination of all commitments under the Financing Agreement. Further, the Term Loan would be permanently reduced pursuant to certain mandatory prepayment events including an annual “excess cash flow sweep” of 50% of the consolidated excess cash flow, with a step-down to 25% when the Leverage RatioLiquidation Preference (as defined in the Financing Agreement) is below 3.50:1.00; provided that, in any fiscal year, any voluntary prepaymentsSeries C Certificate of Designations), or approximately $35.2 million. If holders of the Term Loan shall be credited againstPreferred Stock exercise this right to require the Borrower’s “excess cash flow” prepayment obligations on adollar-for-dollar basis for such calendar year. Borrowings under the Financing Agreement are fully guaranteed by the Guarantors and are collateralized by substantiallyCompany to redeem all the assetsPreferred Stock, the Company’s payment of the Borrower and the Guarantors and a pledge of all of the issued and outstanding equity interests of each of IWCO’s subsidiaries. The Financing Agreement contains certain representations, warranties, events of default, mandatory prepayment requirements, as well as certain affirmative and negative covenants customary for financing agreements of this type. These covenants include restrictions on borrowings, investments and dispositions, as well as limitations on the ability of the Borrower and the Guarantors to make certain capital expenditures and pay dividends. Upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an event of default under the Financing Agreement, the lenders under the Financing Agreement may, among other things, terminate all commitments and declare all or a portion of the loans under the Financing Agreement immediately due and payable and increase the interest rate at which loans and obligations under the Financing Agreement bear interest. During the three months ended January 31, 2018, the Company did not trigger any of these covenants. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2017, the Company adopted ASUNo. 2015-03. As such, the debt issuance costs are capitalized as a reduction of the principal amount of Term Loan onredemption price would likely adversely impact the Company’s balance sheetliquidity and amortized, using the effective-interest method, as additional interest expense over the term of the Term Loan.ability to finance its operations. As of January 31, 2018, the Company2023, this right had $6.0 million outstanding on the revolving credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding on the Term Loan was $393.0 million. As of January 31, 2018, the current and long-term net carrying valuenot been exercised by holders of the Term Loan was $391.7 million.

Consolidated working capital was $70.6 million at January 31, 2018, compared with $108.7 million at July 31, 2017. Included in working capital were cash and cash equivalentsPreferred Stock.

Steel Connect, Inc.

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Table of $106.4 million at January 31, 2018 and $110.7 million at July 31, 2017.

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities was $5.4 million for the six months ended January 31, 2018, as compared to $(17.1) million in the prior year period. Contents

The $22.5 million change in net cash provided by operating activities as compared with the same period in the prior year was primarily due to the $71.3 million improvement in the Company’s net income associated with the tax benefit related to the acquisition of IWCO. During the six months ended January 31, 2018,non-cash items within net cash provided by operating activities included depreciation expense of $5.6 million, amortization of intangible assets of $4.1, amortization of deferred financing costs of $0.4 million, accretion of debt discount of $2.1 million, share-based compensation of $7.4 million,non-cash gains, net, of $12.4 million and gains on investments in affiliates of $0.4 million. During the six months ended January 31, 2017,non-cash items within net cash provided by operating activities included depreciation expense of $4.1 million, amortization of deferred financing costs of $0.3 million, accretion of debt discount of $1.9 million, share-based compensation of $0.4 million,non-cash gains, net, of $0.5 million and gains on investments in affiliates of $0.9 million.

The Company believes that its cash flows related to operating activities of continuing operations are dependent on several factors, including profitability, accounts receivable collections, effective inventory management practices, and optimization of the credit terms of certain vendors of the Company. Our cash flows from operations are also dependent on several factors including the overall performance of the technology sector, the market for outsourcing services and the continued positive operations of IWCO, as discussed above in the “Overview” section.

Investing activities provided (used) cash of $(443.8) million and $3.4 million during the six months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The $443.8 million of cash used in investing activities during the six months ended January 31, 2018 was primarily comprised of $469.2 in payments associated with the acquisition of IWCO, $9.3 million in capital expenditures, offset by $20.6 million in proceeds associated with the sale of property and equipment, $13.8 in proceeds from the sale of Trading Securities and $0.4 million in proceeds from investments in affiliates. The $3.4 million of cash provided in investing activities during the six months ended January 31, 2017 was comprised of $5.8 million in proceeds from the sale of Trading Securities and $0.9 million in proceeds from investments in affiliates, offset by $3.3 million in capital expenditures.

Financing activities provided cash of $432.6 million during the six months ended January 31, 2017, which primarily related to the $393.0 million in net proceeds from the Term Loan associated with the IWCO Acquisition, $35.0 million in in proceeds associated with the issuance of convertible preferred stock and $6.0 million in proceeds from the revolving line of credit. Financing activities used cash of $1.9 million during the six months ended January 31, 2017, which primarily related to the purchase of the Company’s Convertible Notes of $1.8 million and payments on capital lease obligations of $0.1 million.

The CompanyParent believes it has access to adequate resources to meet its needs for normal operating costs, capital expenditures, mandatory debt redemptionsobligations and working capital for its existing business for at least the next twelve months. These resources include cash and cash equivalents,Upon a redemption request of the PNC Credit Agreement,holder of the revolving credit facility noted above and cash, if any, provided by operating activities. At January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017,Preferred Stock (as discussed above), the Company had cash and cash equivalents and Trading Securities of $106.6 million and $122.6 million, respectively. At January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, the Company had a readily available borrowing capacity under its PNC Bank Credit Facility of $6.8 million and $16.0 million, respectively. At January 31, 2018, the Company had a readily available borrowing capacity under its Cerberus revolving Credit Facility of $19.0.

In order to obtain funding for strategic initiatives, which may include capital expenditures or acquisitions, we may seek to raise additional funds through divestitures, public or private equity offerings, debt financings, or other means. In addition, as part of our strategic initiatives, our management may seek to retire or purchase our outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges for equity securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise if we believeParent believes it is probable that it ishas access to adequate resources, including cash on hand and potential dividends from ModusLink, to pay the redemption price and continue its operations.


ModusLink believes that if dividends to the Parent are required, it would have access to adequate resources to meet its operating needs while remaining in our best interests. Such repurchases or exchanges, if any,compliance with the Umpqua Revolver's covenants over the next twelve months. However, there can be no assurances that ModusLink will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.

Management is utilizing the following strategies to continue to enhance liquidity: (1) continuing to implement process improvements throughout all of the Company’s operations, (2) supporting profitable revenue growth both internally and potentially through acquisitions and (3) evaluating from time to time and as appropriate, strategic alternatives with respecthave access to its businesses and/or assets and capital raising opportunities. The Company continues to examine allline of credit under the Umpqua Revolver if its financial performance does not satisfy the financial covenants set forth in its financing agreement, which could also result in the acceleration of its options and strategies, including acquisitions, divestitures and other corporate transactions, to increase cash flow and stockholder value.

debt obligations by its lender, adversely affecting liquidity.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have anyoff-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.

Contractual Obligations

A summary of the Company’s contractual obligations is included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017. The Company’s contractual obligations and other commercial commitments did not change materially between July 31, 2017 and January 31, 2018. The Company’s gross liability for unrecognized tax benefits and related accrued interest was approximately $1.8 million as of January 31, 2018. The Company is unable to reasonably estimate the amount or timing of payments for the liability.

From time to time, the Company agrees to indemnify its clients in the ordinary course of business. Typically, the Company agrees to indemnify its clients for losses caused by the Company. As of January 31, 2018, the Company had no recorded liabilities with respect to thesefinancing arrangements.

Critical Accounting Policies

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to revenue recognition, inventory, restructuring, share-based compensation expense, long-lived assets, investments, and income taxes. Of the accounting estimates we routinely make relating to our critical accounting policies, those estimates made in the process of: determining the valuation of inventory and related reserves; determining future lease assumptions related to restructured facility lease obligations; measuring share-based compensation expense; preparing investment valuations; and establishing income tax valuation allowances and liabilities are the estimates most likely to have a material impact on our financial position and results of operations. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. However, because these estimates inherently involve judgments and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those estimates.

Estimates Update

During the sixthree months ended January 31, 2018, we believe that2023, there have beenwere no significant changes to the items that we disclosed as our critical accounting policies and estimates in the “Critical"Critical Accounting Policies”Estimates" section of Management’sManagement's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017.

2022.

The Company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. The critical accounting policies and estimates that we believe are most critical to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations are reported in the "Critical Accounting Policies" section of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022.
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

The Company is exposed

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Consistent with the rules applicable to the impact of interest rate changes, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and changes in the market values of its investments. The carrying values of financial instruments including cash and cash equivalents, Trading Securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable and the revolving line of credit, approximate fair value because of the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying value of capital lease obligations approximates fair value, as estimated"Smaller Reporting Companies," we have omitted information required by using discounted future cash flows based on the Company’s current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

Interest Rate Risk

As of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, the Company did not have an outstanding balance on the PNC Bank credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the Company had $6.0 million outstanding on the Cerberus revolving credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding on the Term Loan was $393.0 million. Based on outstanding borrowings as of January 31, 2018, the effect of a 100 basis point change in current interest rates on annualized interest expense would be approximately $4.0 million.

The Company maintains a portfolio of highly liquid cash equivalents typically maturing in three months or less as of the date of purchase. We place our investments in instruments that meet high credit quality standards, as specified in our investment policy and include corporate and state municipal obligations such as commercial paper, certificates of deposit and institutional money market funds.

Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to our investment in short-term investments. Our short-term investments are intended to establish a high-quality portfolio that preserves principal, meets liquidity needs, avoids inappropriate concentrations and delivers an appropriate yield in relationship to our investment guidelines and market conditions.

Foreign Currency Risk

The Company has operations in various countries and currencies throughout the world and its operating results and financial position are subject to exposure from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. From time to time, the Company has used derivative financial instruments on a limited basis, principally foreign currency exchange rate contracts, to minimize the transaction exposure that results from such fluctuations. As of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, there were no foreign currency forward contracts outstanding.

Revenues from our foreign operating segments accounted for approximately 49.1% and 71.3% of total revenues during the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. A portion of our international sales made by our foreign business units in their respective countries is denominated in the local currency of each country. These business units also incur a portion of their expenses in the local currency.

The primary foreign currencies in which the Company operates include Chinese Renminbi, Euros, Czech Koruna and Singapore Dollars. The income statements of our international operations that are denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates in each applicable period. To the extent the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, the translation of these foreign currency-denominated transactions results in increased revenues and operating expenses for our international operations. Similarly, our revenues and operating expenses will decrease for our international operations when the U.S. dollar strengthens against foreign currencies. While we attempt to balance local currency revenue to local currency expenses to provide in effect a natural hedge, it is not always possible to completely reduce the foreign currency exchange rate risk due to competitive and other reasons.

The conversion of the foreign subsidiaries’ financial statements into U.S. dollars will lead to a translation gain or loss which is recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). For the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, we recorded a foreign currency translation gain (loss) of approximately $3.6 million and $(0.7) million, respectively, which is recorded within

accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity in our condensed consolidated balance sheet. In addition, certain of our subsidiaries have assets and liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the relevant entity’s functional currency. Changes in the relative exchange rates between the currencies result in remeasurement gains or losses at each balance sheet date and transaction gains or losses upon settlement. For the three months ended January 31, 2018 and 2017, we recorded net realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction and remeasurement gains (losses) of approximately $(1.4) million and $29 thousand, respectively, which are recorded in “Other gains (losses), net” in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Our international business is subject to risks, including, but not limited to, differing economic conditions, changes in political climate, differing tax structures, other regulations and restrictions, and foreign currency exchange rate volatility when compared to the United States. Accordingly, our future results could be materially adversely impacted by changes in these or other factors. As exchange rates vary, our international financial results may vary from expectations and adversely impact our overall operating results.

this item.
Item 4.Controls and Procedures.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Interim Chief Executive Officer (“Principal Executive Officer”) and Chief Financial Officer, (“Principal Financial Officer”), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such terms are defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Disclosure"Disclosure controls and procedures”procedures" means controls and other procedures of a company that are 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 recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’sSEC's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures 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’scompany's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.objectives. Based upon that evaluation, management, including the Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that due to the material weakness described below as well as a material weakness in internal controls over financial reporting as reported in the Company’s 10-K for the period ended July 31, 2017, as filed with the SEC on October 16, 2017, ourCompany's disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of January 31, 2018.

In connection with the preparation of the Form 10-Q for the three and six months ended January 31, 2018, the Company determined that, due to certain communication and monitoring errors in connection with the preparation and review of our income tax provision that was specific to our acquisition of IWCO Direct Holdings, Inc. the tax provision for the Company would have been incorrect and would have resulted in the income tax benefit being materially overstated by $6.9 million for the current quarter ended January 31, 2018. Specifically, we did not design effective controls related to the review of the fair value adjustments used in the calculation of our income tax provision and failed to recognize the tax expense associated with an estimate for non-routine transactions. This error was detected prior to the issuance of our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2018.

As a result of the item described above, we corrected our consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended January 31, 2018. The errors did not impact any prior periods.

These clerical errors resulted from the deficiency referenced in the above paragraph. We have concluded that such deficiency constituted a material weakness in the Company’s internal controls. Management is in the process of remediating the internal controls weakness related to income tax. Nevertheless, the Company may continue to report the above material weakness while sufficient evaluation of newly established procedures and controls occurs.

Notwithstanding the material weakness, management has concluded that the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.

Remediation of the Material Weakness2023.

Changes in Internal Control Overover Financial Reporting

Management has

There have been actively engaged in the planning for, and implementation of, remediation efforts to address the material weakness in the e-Business segment throughout the fiscal year 2017 and 2018. These remediation efforts, outlined below, are intended both to address the identified material weakness and to enhance the Company’s overall financial control environment.

Management has enhanced the formality and rigor of the reconciliation procedures and the evaluation of certain accounts and transactions, controls, including access controls. This deficiency was not effectively remediated during the three months ended January 31, 2018 primarily due to the number of access rights, segregation of duties and review controls not sufficiently documented for a sufficient period of time, primarily within the e-Business segment.

Management has enhanced the design and precision level of existing monitoring controls to provide additional controls supporting the reporting process.

A significant amount of remediation was performed in implementing additional policies, improved processes and documented procedures relating to our financial statement close processes and procedures within the e-Business and Americas segments.

We will continue to engage a nationally recognized accounting firm to provide assistance and guidance in designing, implementing and testing the Company’s internal controls during the year.

Under the direction of the Audit Committee, management will continue to review and make necessaryno changes to the overall design of the Company’s internal control environment, as well as policies and procedures to improve the overall effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.

Management believes the measures described above and others that will be implemented will remediate the control deficiencies the Company has identified and strengthen its internal control over financial reporting. Management is committed to continuous improvement of the Company’s internal control processes and will continue to diligently review the Company’s financial reporting controls and procedures. The material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting will not be considered remediated until the remediated controls operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively. We are working to have the material weakness remediated as soon as possible and significant progress has been made to date. We are committed to continuing to improve our internal control processes and will continue to diligently and vigorously review our financial reporting controls and procedures. As management continues to evaluate and work to improve internal control over financial reporting, the Company may decide to take additional measures to address control deficiencies or decide to modify, or in appropriate circumstances not to complete, certain of the remediation measures described above.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

On December 15, 2017, the Company acquired IWCO Direct as more fully described in Note 8. During the initial transition period following the acquisition, we enhanced our internal controls to ensure all financial information related to the acquisition was properly reflected in our consolidated financial statements.

Except as described in the preceding paragraph, there have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13(a)-15(f) or Rule 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the three monthsquarter ended January 31, 20182023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controlscontrol over financial reporting.

Item 5.Other Information:

As previously reported by Steel Connect, Inc. (the “Company”) on October 5, 2017, the Company received a letter from The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (the “Nasdaq”) notifying the Company that it was not in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605(c)(2) (the “Rule”), which requires that an audit committee consist of at least three members, each of whom is independent. As previously reported, this deficiency was caused by the September 29, 2017, passing of Anthony Bergamo, who served as an independent director on the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) and as the chair of the Board’s audit committee (the “Audit Committee”). Prior to his passing, Mr. Bergamo also served on the Board’s Human Resources and Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee (the “Governance Committee”).

On March 6, 2018, the Board appointed Philip E. Lengyel to the Audit Committee to fill the vacancy created by Mr. Bergamo’s passing. Mr. Lengyel has served on the Board since May 2014 and also serves on the Compensation Committee and Governance Committee. As a result of Mr. Lengyel’s appointment to the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee is now composed of three independent directors.

On March 8, 2018, the Company notified the Nasdaq concerning Mr. Lengyel’s appointment to the Audit Committee. On March 13, 2018, the Company received a letter from the Nasdaq notifying the Company that, based on the information the Company provided to the Nasdaq regarding the appointment of Mr. Lengyel to the Audit Committee, the Nasdaq has determined that the Company has regained compliance with the Rule and this matter is now closed.


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.Legal Proceedings.

None.

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
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The information set forth under Note 10 - "Contingencies" to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, is incorporated herein by reference. For an additional discussion of certain risks associated with legal proceedings, also see Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2022.
Item 1A.Risk Factors.

Except as provided below, there

Item 1A. Risk Factors.
In addition to the risks and uncertainties discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, particularly those disclosed in Part I, Item 2, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended July 31, 2022. There have not been anyno material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Part I, “Item 1A, Risk Factors” in ourthe Company's Annual Report on Form10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2017. In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” discussed in our Annual Report, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in our Annual Report on Form10-K and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are not the only risks facing our Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be not material also may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

Risks Related to Acquisitions

We may not be able to achieve the anticipated synergies and benefits from business acquisitions, including our recent acquisition of IWCO Direct Holdings Inc.

Part of our business strategy is to acquire businesses that we believe can complement our current business activities, both financially and strategically. On December 15, 2017, we acquired IWCO Direct Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. Acquisitions involve many complexities, including, but not limited to, risks associated with the acquired business’ past activities, loss of customers, regulatory changes that are not anticipated, difficulties in integrating personnel and human resource programs, integrating ERP systems and other infrastructures under Company control, unanticipated expenses and liabilities, and the impact on our internal controls and compliance with the regulatory requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. There is no guarantee that our acquisitions will increase the profitability and cash flow of the Company, and our efforts could cause unforeseen complexities and additional cash outflows, including financial losses. As a result, the realization of anticipated synergies or benefits from acquisitions may be delayed or substantially reduced.

Risks Related to our Indebtedness

On December 15, 2017, MLGS, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Financing Agreement by and among the MLGS (as the initial borrower), Instant Web, LLC, a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of IWCO (as Borrower), IWCO, and certain of IWCO’s subsidiaries (together with IWCO, the Guarantors), the lenders from time to time party thereto, and Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, as collateral agent and administrative agent for the lenders. MLGS was the initial borrower under the Financing Agreement, but immediately upon the consummation of the IWCO Acquisition, Borrower became the borrower under the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement provides for $393.0 million term loan facility and a $25.0 million revolving credit facility (collectively, the Cerberus Credit Facility). Proceeds of the Cerberus Credit Facility were used (i) to finance a portion of the IWCO Acquisition, (ii) to repay certain existing indebtedness of the Borrower and its subsidiaries, (iii) for working capital and general corporate purposes and (iv) to pay fees and expenses related to the Financing Agreement and the IWCO Acquisition. The Cerberus Credit Facility has a maturity of five years.

On June 30, 2014, two direct and wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company (the ModusLink Borrowers) entered into a revolving credit and security agreement (the Credit Agreement), as borrowers and guarantors, with PNC Bank and National Association, as lender and as agent, respectively. The Credit Agreement has a five (5) year term which expires on June 30, 2019. It includes a maximum credit commitment of $50.0 million, is available for letters of credit (with a sublimit of $5.0 million) and has a $20.0 million uncommitted accordion feature.

As of January 31, 2018 and July 31, 2017, the Company did not have an outstanding balance on the PNC Bank credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the Company had $6.0 million outstanding on the Cerberus revolving credit facility. As of January 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding on the Term Loan was $393.0 million.

Our indebtedness could restrict our operations and make us more vulnerable to adverse economic conditions.

Our indebtedness could have important consequences for us and our stockholders. For example, our Financing Agreement and our Credit Agreement (together, the “Debt Agreements”) require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, and acquisitions, and for other general corporate purposes. In addition, our indebtedness could:

2022.
increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and competitive pressures in our industry;

place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt;

limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and our industry; and

limit our ability to borrow additional funds on terms that are acceptable to us or at all.

The Debt Agreements governing our indebtedness contain restrictive covenants that will restrict our operational flexibility and require that we maintain specified financial ratios. If we cannot comply with these covenants, we may be in default under the Debt Agreements.

The Debt Agreements governing our indebtedness contain affirmative and negative covenants, including with regard to specified financial ratios, that limit and restrict our operations and may hamper our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Events beyond our control could affect our ability to meet these and other covenants under the Debt Agreements. Our failure to comply with our covenants and other obligations under the Debt Agreements may result in an event of default thereunder. A default, if not cured or waived, may permit acceleration of our indebtedness. If our indebtedness is accelerated, we cannot be certain that we will have sufficient funds available to pay the accelerated indebtedness (together with accrued interest and fees), or that we will have the ability to refinance the accelerated indebtedness on terms favorable to us or at all. This could have serious consequences to our financial condition, operating results, and business, and could cause us to become insolvent or enter bankruptcy proceedings, and shareholders may lose all or a portion of their investment because of the priority of the claims of our creditors on our assets.

If we are unable to generate or borrow sufficient cash to make payments on our indebtedness, our financial condition would be materially harmed, our business could fail, and shareholders may lose all of their investment.

Our ability to make scheduled payments on or to refinance our obligations will depend on our financial and operating performance, which will be affected by economic, financial, competitive, business, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations to service our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we are unable to meet our debt obligations or fund our other liquidity needs, we may need to restructure or refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity or sell certain of our assets. We cannot assure you that we will be able to restructure or refinance any of our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms, if at all, which could cause us to default on our debt obligations and impair our liquidity. Any refinancing of our indebtedness could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations.

Increases in interest rates could adversely affect our results from operations and financial condition.

An increase in prevailing interest rates would have an effect on the interest rates charged on our variable rate debt, which rise and fall upon changes in interest rates. If prevailing interest rates or other factors result in higher interest rates, the increased interest expense would adversely affect our cash flow and our ability to service our indebtedness.

Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
a.None.

b.Not applicable.
c.None.
Item 3.Default Upon Senior Securities.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures.

Note

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information.

On March 9, 2023, the Company and SPHG Holdings entered into an amendment to the SPHG Note (the “SPHG Note Amendment”). Pursuant to the SPHG Note Amendment, the maturity date of the SPHG Note was extended six months to September 1, 2024. In addition, the Company repaid $1.0 million in principal amount of the SPHG Note and will be required to repay an additional $1.0 million principal amount of the note on the three month anniversary of the SPHG Note Amendment. In connection with the SPHG Note Amendment, the Company paid SPHG Holdings a cash amendment fee of $0.1 million. The foregoing summary of the SPHG Note Amendment is qualified by the SPHG Note Amendment which is attached as Exhibit 4.1 to this Form 10-Q.

On March 13, 2023, ModusLink and Umpqua Bank entered into an amendment to the Umpqua Revolver (the "Umpqua Revolver Amendment") to extend the expiration date of the facility to March 31, 2025. There were no costs associated with the extension. The foregoing summary of the Umpqua Revolver Amendment is qualified by the Umpqua Revolver Amendment which is attached as Exhibit 10.1 to this Form 10-Q.
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Item 6. Exhibits.
Item 5.Other Information.

None.

Item 6.Exhibit
Number
Exhibits.Description

Exhibit
Number

4.1*

Description

  2.110.1*
  3.1Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series C Convertible Preferred Stock of ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc. filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on December 15, 2017, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm 8-K filed on December 19, 2017 (FileNo. 001-35319).
  3.231.1*Certificate of Designation of Rights, Preferences and Privileges of Series D Junior Participating Preferred Stock filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 19, 2018, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm 8-K filed on January 19, 2018 (FileNo. 001-35319).
  3.3Certificate of Ownership and Merger filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February  20, 2018, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm 8-K filed on February 26, 2018 (FileNo.  001-35319).
  4.1Tax Benefits Preservation Plan, dated as of January  19, 2018, by and between ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc. and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, as rights agent is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm 8-K filed on January 19, 2018 (FileNo. 001-35319).
10.1*Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated October 5, 2017, between ModusLink Pte. Ltd. and Far East Group Limited.
10.2Financing Agreement dated as of December  15, 2017, by and among IWCO Direct Holdings Inc., MLGS Merger Company, Inc., Instant Web, LLC, certain subsidiaries of IWCO Direct Holdings Inc. identified on the signature pages thereto, the lenders from time to time party hereto, and Cerberus Business Finance, LLC, as collateral agent and administrative agent for the lenders, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm 8-K filed on December 19, 2017 (FileNo. 001-35319).
10.3Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of December  15, 2017, by and between ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc. and SPH Group Holdings LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report onForm  8-K filed on December 19, 2017 (FileNo. 001-35319).
31.1*
31.2*
32.1±
32.2±
101*Interactive Data Files Pursuant to Rule 405 of RegulationS-T:The following financial information from Steel Connect, Inc.'s Quarterly Report Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2023 formatted in Inline XBRL: (i) Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 31, 20182023 and July 31, 2017,2022, (ii) Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 2017,2022, (iii) Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)Loss for the three and six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 20172022, (iv) Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' (Deficit) Equity for the three and six months ended January 31, 2023 and 2022, (v) Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended January 31, 20182023 and 20172022 and (v)(vi) Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
104*Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

*Filed herewith.
±Furnished herewith.

SIGNATURE

*Filed herewith.
±    Furnished herewith.
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SIGNATURES

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

STEEL CONNECT, INC.

STEEL CONNECT, INC.
Date: March 15, 20182023By:/S/ JASON WONG

By:

/S/ LOUIS J. BELARDI

Jason Wong
Louis J. Belardi

Chief Financial Officer

(Duly Authorized Officer, Principal Financial Officer and
Accounting Officer)

Authorized Signatory)

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