UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 20-F

 

¨REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

OR

 

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

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

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20162019

 

OR

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

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

 

For the transition period from ____________ to _______________

 

OR

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

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

 

Date of event requiring this shell company report. . . . . . . . ... . .

 

Commission file number000-20181

 

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

CuraçaoCayman Islands

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

Azrieli Center

26 HarukmimHarokmim St.

Holon, 5885800 Israel

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Roni Giladi, Chief Financial Officer

Tel: +972-3-790-2000

Fax+972-3-790 2942

Azrieli Center

26 HarukmimHarokmim St.

Holon, 5885800 Israel

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Class: Trading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on
which registered:
Common Shares, par value € 0.01€0.01 per share SPNSNASDAQ Capital Market

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:None

 

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:None

 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, the issuerRegistrant had 49,035,95150,159,876 Common Shares, par value € 0.01 per share, outstanding (which excludes 2,328,296 Common Shares held in treasury).

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

 

Yes¨       Nox

 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Yes¨       Nox

 

Indicate by checkmark 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.

 

Yesx       No¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T h(§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).

 

Yesx       No¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or an emerging growth company. See definition of “accelerated filer” and “large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer:¨Accelerated filer:x

Non-accelerated filer:¨Emerging growth company¨

Large accelerated filer:Accelerated filer:
Non-accelerated filer:Emerging growth company

 

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with USU.S. GAAP, 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 which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP¨ International Financial Reporting Standards as issued¨ Other

by the International Accounting Standards Board

☒ U.S. GAAP☐ International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board☐ Other

 

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow:

 

Item 17¨        Item 18¨

 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

Yes¨        Nox

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
Introduction 1ii
   
PART I 1
   
Item 1Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers1
   
Item 2Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable1
   
Item 3Key Information21
   
Item 4Information on the Company1720
   
Item 4AUnresolved Staff Comments3546
   
Item 5Operating and Financial Review and Prospects3546
   
Item 6Directors, Senior Management and Employees5963
   
Item 7Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions6569
   
Item 8Financial Information6772
   
Item 9The Offer and Listing6873
   
Item 10Additional Information7073
   
Item 11Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk8386
   
Item 12Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities8387
   
PART II 8488
   
Item 13Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies8488
   
Item 14Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds8488
   
Item 15Controls and Procedures8488
   
Item 16[Reserved]8488
   
Item 16AAudit Committee Financial Expert8588
   
Item 16BCode of Ethics8589
   
Item 16CPrincipal Accountant Fees and Services8589
   
Item 16DExemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees8589
   
Item 16EPurchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers8589
   
Item 16FChange in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant8689
   
Item 16GCorporate Governance8689
   
Item 16HMine Safety Disclosures8790
   
PART III 8791
   
Item 17Financial Statements8791
   
Item 18Financial Statements8791
   
Item 19Exhibits8891
   
Signature 8992

 

i

 

 

INTRODUCTION

Definitions

 

In this annual report, unless the context otherwise requires:

 

·referencesReferences to “Sapiens,” the “Company,” the “Registrant,” “our company,” “us,” “we” and “our” refer to Sapiens International Corporation N.V., a CuraçaoCayman Islands company, and its consolidated subsidiaries;subsidiaries

·referencesReferences to “our shares,” “Common Shares” and similar expressions refer to Sapiens’ Common Shares, par value € 0.01 per share;share

·referencesReferences to “Insseco”“Sapiens Poland” refer to Sapiens Software Solutions (Poland) Sp.Z.O.O (formerly Insseco Sp. Z O.O.O.O), a Poland-based software and services provider for the insurance market that Sapiens acquired in the third quarter of 2015;2015

·referencesReferences to “Adaptik” refer to Adaptik Corporation, a New Jersey company engaged in the development of software solutions, which Sapiens acquired during the first quarter of 2018

References to “Cálculo” refer to Cálculo S.A.U , a provider of a core insurance solution and managed services to the Spanish market,which Sapiens acquired during the fourth quarter of 2019
References to “KnowledgePrice.com” refer to KnowledgePrice.com, a Latvian company that specializes in digital insurance services and consulting, which Sapiens acquired in the fourth quarter of 2017

References to “StoneRiver” refer to StoneRiver, Inc., a Denver, Colorado- based provider of technology solutions and services to the insurance industry that Sapiens acquired in the first quarter of 2017;2017

·referencesReferences to “dollars”,“sum.cumo” refer to sum.cumo, a German-based provider of digital, consumer-centric solutions mainly to the insurance sector, which Sapiens acquired in the first quarter of 2020
References to “dollars,” “U.S. dollars”,dollars,” “U.S. $” and “$” are to United States Dollars;dollars

·referencesReferences to “Euro” or “€”are to the Euro, the official currency of the Eurozone in the European Union;Union

·referencesReferences to “shekels” and “NIS” are to New Israeli Shekels, the Israeli currency;currency

·referencesReferences to the “Articles” are to our Amended Articles of Association, as currently in effect;effect

·referencesReferences to the “Securities Act” are to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended;amended

·referencesReferences to the “Exchange Act” are to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended;amended

·referencesReferences to “NASDAQ” are to the NASDAQ Stock Market; Market

·referencesReferences to the “TASE” are to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange; andExchange

·referencesReferences to the “SEC” are to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.Commission

ii

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain matters discussed in this annual report are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act, Section 21E of the Exchange Act and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that are based on our beliefs, assumptions and assumptionsexpectations, as well as information currently available to us. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” “plan” and similar expressions. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to:

the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, which may last longer than expected and materially adversely affect our results of operations;

the degree of our success in our plans to leverage our global footprint to grow our sales;

the degree of our success in integrating the companies that we have acquired through the implementation of our M&A growth strategy;

the lengthy development cycles for our solutions, which may frustrate our ability to realize revenues and/or profits from our potential new solutions;

our lengthy and complex sales cycles, which do not always result in the realization of revenues;

the degree of our success in retaining our existing customers or competing effectively for greater market share;

difficulties in successfully planning and managing changes in the size of our operations;

the frequency of the long-term, large, complex projects that we perform that involve complex estimates of project costs and profit margins, which sometimes change mid-stream;

the challenges and potential liability that heightened privacy laws and regulations pose to our business;

occasional disputes with clients, which may adversely impact our results of operations and our reputation;

various intellectual property issues related to our business;

potential unanticipated product vulnerabilities or cybersecurity breaches of our or our customers’ systems;

risks related to the insurance industry in which our clients operate;

risks associated with our global sales and operations, such as changes in regulatory requirements, wide-spread viruses and epidemics like the recent novel coronavirus outbreak, or fluctuations in currency exchange rates; and

risks related to our principal location in Israel and our status as a Cayman Islands company.

While we believe such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, should one or more of the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, or these risks or uncertainties materialize, our actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Please read the risks discussed in Item 3 – “Key Information” under the caption “Risk Factors” and cautionary statements appearing elsewhere in this annual report in order to review conditions that we believe could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements.

 

WeYou should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation publicly to update or revisepublicly any forward-looking statements whether as a resultfor any reason after the date of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this annual report, might not occur.to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

iii

 

PART I

 

Item 1.Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 2.Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

Not applicable.

 

1

Item 3.Key Information

 

A.A.Selected Financial Data.

 

The following tables summarize certain selected consolidated financial data for the periods and as of the dates indicated. We derived the statement of operations financial data for the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019, and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 20152018 and 20162019, from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. The selected consolidated statement of income financial data for the years ended December 31, 20122015 and 20132016, and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2012, 20132015, 2016 and 20142017, are derived from our audited financial statements not included in this annual report. Our historical consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP, and presented in U.S. dollars. You should read the information presented below in conjunction with those statements.

 

The summary consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2014, as derived from our audited consolidated balance sheet as of that date that appears elsewhere herein, reflects the carrying amounts combination between Sapiens and Insseco as of that date, consistent with the pooling of interest accounting method that we accorded to our acquisition of Insseco. Also consistent with that accounting method, our consolidated statements of income data for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes the revenues and expenses of Insseco for the entire year (although the acquisition was actually consummated on August 18, 2015).See also Note 1(d)(2) to our consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this annual report.

The information presented below is qualified by the more detailed historical consolidated financial statements, the notes thereto and the discussion under “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” included elsewhere in this annual report.

 

Selected Financial Data: Year Ended December 31, 
  (In thousands, except per share data) 
Statement of Income Data: 2012  2013  2014  2015(1)  2016 
                
Revenues $113,909  $135,377  $157,450  $185,636  $216,190 
Cost of revenues  66,459   84,971   99,095   111,192   130,402 
Gross profit  47,450   50,406   58,355   74,444   85,788 
Operating Expenses:                    
Research and development  10,169   11,846   11,352   10,235   16,488 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  25,236   26,677   32,097   39,859   44,460 
Total operating expenses  35,405   38,523   43,449   50,094   60,948 
Operating income  12,045   11,883   14,906   24,350   24,840 
Financial income, net  193   520   124   163   533 
Income before taxes on income  12,238   12,403   15,030   24,513   25,373 
Taxes on income  (435)  (811)  (454)  (4,213)  (5,772)
                     
Net income  11,803   11,592   14,576   20,300   19,601 
                     
Attributed to non-controlling interest  23   (12)  131   59   (43)
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   -   (18)  1   (134)
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   -   -   224   442 
                     
Net income attributable to Sapiens  11,780   11,604   14,463   20,016   19,336 
                     
Basic net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $0.29  $0.29  $0.31  $0.42  $0.40 
Diluted net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $0.28  $0.27  $0.30  $0.41  $0.40 
Weighted average number of shares used in computing basic net earnings per share  39,953   40,024   47,210   48,121   48,947 
Weighted average number of shares used in computing diluted net earnings per share  41,671   42,316   48,637   49,327   49,780 

Selected Financial Data: Year Ended December 31, 
  (In thousands, except per share data) 
Statement of Income Data: 2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
                
Revenues $185,636  $216,190  $269,194  $289,707  $325,674 
Cost of revenues  111,192   130,402   175,678   180,138   196,153 
Gross profit  74,444   85,788   93,516   109,569   129,521 
Operating Expenses:                    
Research and development  10,235   16,488   31,955   34,415   37,378 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  39,859   44,460   60,559   52,133   54,274 
Total operating expenses  50,094   60,948   92,514   86,547   91,652 
Operating income  24,350   24,840   1,002   23,022   37,869 
Financial expenses (income), net  (163)  (533)  3,010   3,991   2,768 
Income (loss) before taxes on income (tax benefit)  24,513   25,373   (2,008)  19,031   35,101 
Taxes on income (tax benefit)  4,213   5,772   (2,564)  5,031   8,610 
                     
Net income  20,300   19,601   556   14,000   26,491 
                     
Attributed to non-controlling interest  59   (43)  (189)  215   244 
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  1   (135)  43   -   - 
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  224   443   350   -   - 
                     
Net income attributable to Sapiens  20,016   19,336   352   13,785   26,247 
                     
Basic net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $0.42  $0.40  $0.01  $0.28  $0.53 
Diluted net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $0.41  $0.40  $0.01  $0.28  $0.52 
Weighted average number of shares used in computing basic net earnings per share  48,121   48,947   49,170   49,827   50,031 
Weighted average number of shares used in computing diluted net earnings per share  49,327   49,780   49,926   50,106   50,653 
2

 At December 31, 
    At December 31, 
Balance Sheet Data: 2012  2013  2014(1)  2015  2016  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
 (In thousands)  (In thousands) 
                
Cash and cash equivalents $29,050  $70,313  $47,400  $54,351  $60,908  $54,351  $60,908  $71,467  $64,628  $66,295 
Marketable securities  -   -   33,098   39,651   35,448   39,651   35,448   -   -   - 
Working capital  18,723   63,516   43,663   51,342   72,453   51,342   72,453   60,804   48,206   42,311 
Total assets  162,584   222,428   233,210   242,271   257,851   242,271   257,851   373,619   378,865   452,421 
Series B Debentures(1)  -   -   78,281   79,809   68,748 
Capital stock(2)  210,594   245,205   249,938   234,658   227,463   234,658   227,463   221,863   215,613   217,711 
Total equity(2) $118,439  $170,408  $178,293   181,809   194,391  $181,809  $194,391  $200,874  $202,484  $225,498 

 

(1)As indicated above,In September 2017, we issued NIS 280 million (approximately $78.3 million, net of $0.96 million of debt discount and issuance costs) principal amount of Series B unsecured, non-convertible debentures, in a public offering and private placement in Israel. For more information concerning the balance sheet data asSeries B debentures, please see Item 5.B “Liquidity and Capital Resources”—”Israeli Public Offering and Private Placement of DecemberDebentures”.

(2)On April 22, 2015, March 31, 20142016, October 18, 2017, September 16, 2018 and August 5, 2019, our Board of Directors declared one-time cash dividends of $0.15, $0.20, $0.20, $0.20 and $0.22 per Common Share (or approximately $7.2 million, $10.0 million, $9.8 million, $10.0 million and $11.0 million, in the statement of income data for the year ended December 31, 2015 reflect the carrying amounts combination between Sapiens and Insseco as of December 31, 2014 and as of Januaryaggregate, respectively), which were paid on June 1, 2015, respectively, consistent with the pooling of interest accounting method in respect of our acquisition of Insseco.June 1, 2016, December 14, 2017, October 30, 2018 and September 3, 2019, respectively.

 

(2)B.In November 2012, we repurchased 2 million of our outstanding ordinary shares for total consideration of $7 million.

On January 15, 2013, April 22, 2015 and March 31, 2016, our Board of Directors determined, subject to shareholder approval, to declare and pay one-time cash interim dividends of $0.15, $0.15 and $0.20 per Common Share (or $5.8 million, $7.2 million and $10.0 million, in the aggregate, respectively), which were paid on February 22, 2013, June 1, 2015 and June 1, 2016, respectively.

OnNovember 19, 2013, we consummated an underwritten follow-on public offering of 5,650,000 of our Common Shares, plus an additional 847,400 Common Shares to cover over-allotments, pursuant to an underwriting agreement with Barclays Capital Inc., as representative of certain underwriters.

B.Capitalization and Indebtedness.

 

Not applicable.

 

C.Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds.

 

Not applicable.

 

D.Risk Factors.

 

We operate globally in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment that involves numerous risks and uncertainties. The following section lists some, but not all, of those risks and uncertainties that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

3

Risks Relating to Our Business, Our Industry and ourOur Financing Activities

The global outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus) may negatively impact the global economy in a significant manner for an extended period of time, and also adversely affect our operating results in a material manner.

As of the date of this annual report, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic had made a significant impact on global economic activity, with governments around the world having closed office spaces, public transportation and schools, and restricting travel. These closures and restrictions, if continued for a sustained period, could trigger a global recession that could negatively impact our business in a material manner. Most importantly, our insurer customers may be less likely to purchase large insurance software systems if they face a wave of claims related to the virus, or they may reduce the amount of work for which they retain our services if they experience a slowdown in their businesses,

Prolonged economic uncertainties or downturns in certain regions or industries could materially adversely affect our business. Our business depends on our current and prospective customers’ ability and willingness to invest money in core systems, which in turn is dependent upon their overall economic health. Negative economic conditions in the global economy or certain regions such as the U.S. or Europe, including conditions resulting from financial and credit market fluctuations, could cause a decrease in corporate spending on products and services that we sell. Wide-spread viruses and epidemics like the recent novel coronavirus outbreak, could also negatively affect our customers’ spending on our products and services. In 2019, 50% of our revenues generated from North America, 41% of our revenues generated from Europe, and 9% from the rest of the world. In addition, a significant portion of our revenue is generated from customers in the financial services industry, including banking and insurance. Negative economic conditions may cause customers generally, and in that industry in particular, to reduce their IT spending. Customers may delay or cancel projects, choose to focus on in-house development efforts or seek to lower their costs by renegotiating maintenance and support agreements. Additionally, customers may be more likely to make late payments in worsening economic conditions, which could require us to increase our collection efforts and require us to incur additional associated costs to collect expected revenues. To the extent purchases of licenses for our software are perceived by customers and potential customers to be discretionary, our revenues may be disproportionately affected by delays or reductions in general IT spending. If economic conditions generally or in the industries in which we operate specifically, worsen from present levels, our results of operations could be adversely affected.


The implementation of our M&A growth strategy, which requires the integration of our multiple acquired companies, including, most recently, sum.cumo,Cálculo, Adaptik, KnowledgePrice.com and StoneRiver and their respective businesses, operations and employees with our own, involves significant risks, and the failure to integrate successfully may adversely affect our future results.

In the past decade we have completed 13 acquisitions. Most recently, in the first quarter of 2020, we acquired sum.como, after having acquired Cálculo in the fourth quarter of 2019, Adaptik in the fourth quarter of 2018, and KnowledgePrice.com and StoneRiver in 2017. These acquisitions are part of our integrated M&A growth strategy, which is centered on three key factors: growing our customer base, expanding geographically and adding complementary solutions to our portfolio— all while we seek to ensure our continued high quality of services and product delivery. Any failure to successfully integrate the business, operations and employees of our acquired companies, or to otherwise realize the anticipated benefits of these acquisitions, could harm our results of operations. Our ability to realize these benefits will depend on the timely integration and consolidation of organizations, operations, facilities, procedures, policies and technologies, and the harmonization of differences in the business cultures between these companies and their personnel. Integration of these businesses will be complex and time-consuming, will involve additional expense and could disrupt our business and divert management’s attention from ongoing business concerns. The challenges involved in integrating sum.como, Cálculo, Adaptik, and other former acquisitions include:

Preserving customer, supplier and other important relationships

Integrating complex, core products and services that we acquire with our existing products and services

Integrating financial forecasting and controls, procedures and reporting cycles

Combining and integrating information technology, or IT, systems

Integrating employees and related HR systems and benefits, maintaining employee morale and retaining key employees

Potential confusion that we may have in our dealings with customers and prospective customers as to the products we are offering to them and potential overlap among those products

The benefits we expect to realize from these acquisitions are, necessarily, based on projections and assumptions about the combined businesses of our company, and assume, among other things, the successful integration of these acquired entities into our business and operations. The acquisitions of StoneRiver and Adaptik, in particular, significantly expanded our presence and scale in the North American insurance industry, and has been helping us to further accelerate our growing market footprint in the U.S. P&C space. Our projections and assumptions concerning our acquisitions may be inaccurate, however, and we may not successfully integrate the acquired companies and our operations in a timely manner, or at all. We may also be exposed to unexpected contingencies or liabilities of the acquired companies. If we do not realize the anticipated benefits of these transactions, our growth strategy and future profitability could be adversely affected.

 

Our development cycles are lengthy, we may not have the resources available to complete development of new, enhanced or modified solutions and we may incur significant expenses before we generate revenues, if any, from our solutions.

 

Because our solutions are complex and require rigorous testing, development cycles can be lengthy, taking us up to two years to develop and introduce new, enhanced or modified solutions. Moreover, development projects can be technically challenging and expensive. The nature of these development cycles may cause us to experience delays between the time we incur expenses associated with research and development and the time we generate revenues, if any, from such expenses. We may also not have sufficient funds or other resources to make the required investments in product development. Furthermore, we may invest substantial resources in the development of solutions that do not achieve market acceptance or commercial success. Even where we succeed in our sales efforts and obtain new orders from customers, the complexity involved in delivering our solutions to such customers makes it more difficult for us to consummate delivery in a timely manner and to recognize revenue and maximize profitability. Failure to deliver our solutions in a timely manner could result in order cancellations, damage our reputations and require us to indemnify our customers. Any of these risks relating to our lengthy and expensive development cycle could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions and results of operations.


Our sales cycle is variable and often lengthy, depends upon many factors outside our control, and requires us to expend significant time and resources prior to generating associated revenues.

 

The typical sales cycle for our solutions and services is lengthy and unpredictable, requires pre-purchase evaluation by a significant number of persons in our customers’ organizations, and often involves a significant operational decision by our customers. Our sales efforts involve educating our customers and industry analysts and consultants about the use and benefits of our solutions, including the technical capabilities of our solutions and the efficiencies achievable by organizations deploying our solutions. Customers typically undertake a significant evaluation process, which frequently involves not only our solutions, but also those of our competitors and can result in a lengthy sales cycle. Our sales cycle for new customers is typically sixone year to eighteen monthstwo years and can extend even longer in some cases. We spend substantial time, effort and money in our sales efforts without any assurance that such efforts will produce any sales.

 

Investment in highly skilled research and development and customer support personnel is critical to our ability to develop and enhance our solutions and support our customers, but an increase in such investment may reduce our profitability.

 

As a provider of software solutions that rely upon technological advancements, we rely heavily on our research and development activities to remain competitive. We consequently depend in large part on the ability to attract, train, motivate and retain highly skilled information technology professionals for our research and development team, particularly individuals with knowledge and experience in the insurance industry. Because our software solutions are highly complex and are generally used by our customers to perform critical business functions, we also depend heavily on other skilled technology professionals to provide ongoing support to our customers. Skilled technology professionals are often in high demand and short supply. If we are unable to hire or retain qualified research and development personnel and other technology professionals to develop, implement and modify our solutions, we may be unable to meet the needs of our customers. Even if we succeed in retaining the necessary skilled personnel in our research and development and customer support efforts, our investments in our personnel and product development efforts increase our costs of operations and thereby reduce our profitability, unless accompanied by increased revenues. Given the highly competitive industry in which we operate, we may not succeed in increasing our revenues in line with our increasing investments in our personnel and research and development efforts.

 

Furthermore, ifas we seek to expand the marketing and offering of our products into new territories, it would requirerequires the retention of new, additional skilled personnel with knowledge of the particular market and applicable regulatory regime. Such skilled personnel may not be available at a reasonable cost relative to the additional revenues that we expect to generate in those territories, or may not be available at all.

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If existing customers In particular, wage costs in lower-cost markets where we have recently added personnel, such as India, are not satisfied with our solutionsincreasing and services and either do not make subsequent purchases from us or do not continue using such solutions and services, or if our relationships with our largest customers are impaired, our revenue could be negatively affected.

We depend heavily on repeat product and service revenues from our base of existing customers. Fivewe may need to increase the levels of our customers accounted for,employee compensation more rapidly than in the aggregate, 32%past to remain competitive. The transition of projects to new locations may also lead to business disruptions due to differing levels of employee knowledge and 34% of our revenues in the years ended December 31, 2015organizational and 2016, respectively. If our existing customers are not satisfied with our solutions and services, they may not enter into new project contracts with us or continue using our technologies. A significant decline in our revenue stream from existing customers would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The implementation of our M&A growth strategy, which requires the integration of our multiple acquired companies, including, most recently, StoneRiver, MaxPro, 4Sight, Insseco and IBEXI Solutions Private Limited, and their respective businesses, operations and employees with our own, involves significant risks, and the failure to integrate successfully may adversely affect our future results.

In the past six yearsleadership skills. Although we have completed eight acquisitions. Most recently,never experienced an organized labor dispute, strike or work stoppage, any such occurrence, including in 2017, we have acquired StoneRiver, after having acquired Maximum Processing Inc, or MaxPro, and 4Sight Business Intelligence, or 4Sight, in 2016, and IBEXI Solutions Private Limited, or IBEXI, and Insseco in 2015. These acquisitions are part of our integrated M&A growth strategy, which is centered on three key factors: growing our customer base, expanding geographically and adding complementary solutions to our portfolio— all while we seek to ensure our continued high quality of services and product delivery. Any failure to successfully integrate the business, operations and employees of our acquired companies, or to otherwise realize the anticipated benefits of these acquisitions, could harm our results of operations. Our ability to realize these benefits will depend on the timely integration and consolidation of organizations, operations, facilities, procedures, policies and technologies, and the harmonization of differences in the business cultures between these companies and their personnel. Integration of these businesses will be complex and time-consuming, will involve additional expense andconnection with unionization efforts, could disrupt our business and divert management’s attention from ongoing business concerns. The challenges involved in integrating IBEXI, Insseco, MaxPro, 4Sightoperations and StoneRiver include:

·preserving customer, supplier and other important relationships;

·integrating financial forecasting and controls, procedures and reporting cycles;

·combining and integrating information technology, or IT, systems; and

·integrating employees and related HR systems and benefits, maintaining employee morale and retaining key employees.

The benefits we expect to realize from these acquisitions are, necessarily, based on projections and assumptions about the combined businesses ofharm our company, IBEXI, Insseco, MaxPro, 4Sight and StoneRiver, and assume, among other things, the successful integration of IBEXI, Insseco, MaxPro, 4Sight and StoneRiver into our business and operations.The acquisition of StoneRiver, in particular, is expected to significantly expand our presence and scale in the North American insurance industry, and to help us further accelerate our growing market footprint in the U.S. P&C space. Our projections and assumptions concerning our acquisitions may be inaccurate, however, and we may not successfully integrate the acquired companies and our operations in a timely manner, or at all. We may also be exposed to unexpected contingencies or liabilities of the acquired companies. If we do not realize the anticipated benefits of these transactions, our growth strategy and future profitability could be adversely affected.financial condition.

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Failure to manage our rapid growthgrowth— both organic and non-organic—could effectively could harm our business.

 

We have recently experienced, and expect to continue to experience, rapid growth in our number of employees, especially in India, and in our international operations that has placed, and will continue to place, a significant strain on our operational and financial resources and our personnel. To manage our anticipated future growth effectively, we must continue to maintain and may need to enhance our information technology infrastructure, financial and accounting systems and controls and manage expanded operations and employees in geographically distributed locations. We also must attract, train and retain a significant number of additional qualified sales and marketing personnel, professional services personnel, software engineers, technical personnel and management personnel. Our failure to manage our rapid growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Our growth could require significant capital expenditures and may divert financial resources from other projects, such as the development of new services or product enhancements. For example, since it may take as long as six months to hire and train a new member of our professional services staff, we make decisions regarding the size of our professional services staff based upon our expectations with respect to customer demand for our products and services. If these expectations are incorrect, and we increase the size of our professional services organization without experiencing an increase in sales of our products and services, we will experience reductions in our gross and operating margins and net income. If we are unable to effectively manage our growth, our expenses may increase more than expected, our revenues could decline or grow more slowly than expected and we may be unable to implement our business strategy. Our rapid growth may also be accompanied by greater exposure to litigation, including suits by clients, vendors, employees or former employees, as the sizes of our workforce and our overall international operations increase. All such litigation carries with it related costs and could divert our management’s attention from ongoing business concerns. We also intend to continue to expand into additional international markets which, if not technologically or commercially successful, could harm our financial condition and prospects.


The skilled and highly qualified workforce that we need to develop, implement and modify our solutions may be difficult to hire, train and retain, and we could face increased costs to attract and retain our skilled workforce.

Our business operations depend in large part on our ability to attract, train, motivate and retain highly skilled information technology professionals, software programmers and communications engineers on a worldwide basis. In addition, our competitive success will depend on our ability to attract and retain other outstanding, highly qualified employees, consultants and other professionals. Because our software products are highly complex and are generally used by our customers to perform critical business functions, we depend heavily on skilled technology professionals. Skilled technology professionals are often in high demand and short supply. If we are unable to hire or retain qualified technology professionals to develop, implement and modify our solutions, we may be unable to meet the needs of our customers. In addition, serving several new customers or implementing several new large-scale projects in a short period of time may require us to attract and train additional IT professionals at a rapid rate. Once we hire and train our skilled employees, if there is a downturn in worldwide economic conditions and in our business, we may need to lay off some of those employees, which will result in our wasting the time and resources invested in training them, and wasting their accumulated know-how.

If we fail to adapt to changing market conditions and cannot compete successfully with existing or new competitors, our business could be harmed.

We may be unable to compete successfully with existing or new competitors. Our failure to adapt to changing market conditions and to compete successfully with established or new competitors could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. We face intense competition for the software products and services that we sell, including competition for managed services we provide to customers under long-term service agreements. These managed services include management of data center operations and IT infrastructure, application management and ongoing support, systems modernization and consolidation, and management of end-to-end business processes for billing and customer care operations.

The market for communications information systems is highly competitive and fragmented, and we expect competition to continue to increase. We compete with independent software and service providers and with the in-house IT and network departments of communications companies. Our main competitors include firms that provide IT services (including consulting, systems integration and managed services), software vendors that sell products for specific aspects of a total information system, software vendors that specialize in systems for particular communications services (such as internet, wireline and wireless services, cable, satellite and service bureaus) and network equipment providers that offer software systems in combination with the sale of network equipment. We also compete with companies that provide digital commerce software and solutions.

We believe that our ability to compete with other vendors, as well as with in-house IT and network departments of communications companies, depends on a number of factors, including:

The development by others of software products and services that are competitive with our products and services

The price at which others offer competitive software and services

The ability of competitors to deliver projects at a level of quality that rivals our own

The responsiveness of our competitors to customer needs

The ability of our competitors to hire, retain and motivate key personnel

A number of our competitors have long operating histories; large customer bases; substantial financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources; and strong name recognition. Current and potential competitors have established, and may establish in the future, cooperative relationships among themselves, or with third parties to increase their abilities to address the needs of our existing, or prospective, customers.

Additionally, our competitors have acquired, and may continue to acquire in the future, companies that may enhance their market offerings. New competitors or alliances among competitors may emerge and rapidly acquire significant market share. As a result, our competitors may be able to adapt more quickly than us to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements, and may be able to devote greater resources to the promotion and sale of their products. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to compete successfully with existing or new competitors. If we fail to adapt to changing market conditions and to compete successfully with established or new competitors, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.

We may be required to increase or decrease the scope of our operations in response to changes in the demand for our products and services, and if we fail to successfully plan and manage changes in the size of our operations, our business will suffer.

In the past, we have both grown and contracted our operations, in some cases rapidly, to profitably offer our products and services in a continuously changing market. If we are unable to manage these changes, or to plan and manage any future changes in the size and scope of our operations, our business will be negatively impacted.

Restructurings and cost reduction measures that we have implemented in the past have reduced the size of our operations and workforce. Reductions in personnel can result in significant severance, administrative and legal expenses, and may also adversely affect or delay various sales, marketing and product development programs and activities. These cost reduction measures have included, and may in the future include, employee separation costs and consolidating and/or relocating certain of our operations to different geographic locations.

Acquisitions, organic growth and absorption of significant numbers of customers’ employees in connection with managed services projects have, from time to time, increased our headcount. During periods of expansion, we may need to serve several new customers or implement several new large-scale projects in short periods of time. This may require us to attract and train additional IT professionals at a rapid rate, as well as quickly expand our facilities, which may be difficult to successfully implement.

If existing customers are not satisfied with our solutions and services and either do not make subsequent purchases from us or do not continue using such solutions and services, or if our relationships with our largest customers are impaired, our revenue could be negatively affected.

We depend heavily on repeat product and service revenues from our base of existing customers. Five of our customers accounted for, in the aggregate, 20.7% and 15.6% of our revenues in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively. If our existing customers are not satisfied with our solutions and services, they may not enter into new project contracts with us or continue using our technologies. A significant decline in our revenue stream from existing customers, including due to termination of agreement(s), would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

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Our business often involves long-term, large, complex implementation projects across the globe, which involve uncertainties, mainly during the implementation period, such as changes to the estimated project costs and changes in project schedule. Such changes may cause disputes between us and our customers, due to failure on our part, or even in absence of failures on our part, and may in some cases result in cancellation of those projects. Such cancellation can adversely impact our revenues, profitability and/or, in some cases, our relationship with the relevant customer.

Our business is characterized by relatively large, complex implementation projects or engagements that can have a significant impact on our total revenue and cost of revenue from quarter to quarter. A high percentage of our expenses, particularly employee compensation, are relatively fixed. Therefore, variations in the timing of the initiation, estimate of scope of work, progress or completion of projects or engagements can cause significant variations in operating results from quarter to quarter.

This is particularly the case for fixed-price contracts, where our delivery requirements sometimes span more than one year. For a highly complex, fixed-price project that requires customization, we may not be able to accurately estimate our actual costs of completing the project. We are often dependent on the assistance of third-parties (such as our customers’ vendors or IT employees, or our system integrator partners) in implementing such a project, which may not be provided in a timely manner. If our actual cost-to-completion of such a project significantly exceeds the estimated costs, we could experience a loss on the related contract, which (when multiplied by multiple projects) could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position and cash flow.

Similarly, delays in implementation projects (whether fixed price or not) may affect our revenue and cause our operating results to vary widely. Our solutions are delivered over periods of time ranging from several months to a few years. Payment terms are generally based on periodic payments or on the achievement of milestones. Any delays in payment or in the achievement of milestones may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

For non-fixed price contracts, we generally provide our customers with up-front estimates regarding the duration, budget and costs associated with the implementation of our products. Due to the complexities described above, however, we may not meet those upfront estimates and/or the expectations of our customers, which could lead to a dispute with a client.

As an example, in 2017, we were involved in a dispute with a significant customer (which accounted for approximately 12% of our revenues in 2016) under a software development project agreement. Work on the project was eventually canceled due to the dispute and we entered into a settlement agreement with the customer, which resulted in a reduction in our revenues and operating profit relative to our prior estimates for 2017. In 2018, a significant customer in South Africa changed the scope of an ongoing project significantly, which resulted in a decrease in the revenues realized from that customer during 2018, thereby adversely impacting our revenues in 2018. In 2019, a significant European customer cancelled, for convenience (and not due a failure by us to comply with the terms of the agreement with such customer) an implementation project. While we recognized and collected the vast majority of the sums payable to us under the foregoing implementation project, the cancellation resulted in the loss of potential future revenues from this customer. Similar such disputes with other significant customers in the future, whether due to failure on our part, or even absent such failure on our part, could result in lost revenues, and lower profit margins, and could harm our reputation, thereby adversely affecting our ability to attract new customers and to sell additional solutions and services to existing customers.

 

We may be liable to our clients for damages caused by a violation of intellectual property rights, the disclosure of other confidential information, including personally identifiable information, system failures, errors or unsatisfactory performance of services, and our insurance policies may not be sufficient to cover these damages.

 

We often have access to, and are required to collect and store, sensitive or confidential client information, including personally identifiable information. Some of our client agreements do not limit our potential liability for breaches of confidentiality, infringement indemnity and certain other matters. Furthermore, breaches of confidentiality may entitle the aggrieved party to equitable remedies, including injunctive relief. If any person, including any of our employees and subcontractors, penetrates our network security or misappropriates sensitive or confidential client information, including personally identifiable information, we could be subject to significant liability from our clients or from our clients’ customers for breaching contractual confidentiality provisions or privacy laws. Despite measures we take to protect the intellectual property and other confidential information or personally identifiable information of our clients, unauthorized parties, including our employees and subcontractors, may attempt to misappropriate certain intellectual property rights that are proprietary to our clients or otherwise breach our clients’ confidences. Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential client information, including personally identifiable information, or a violation of intellectual property rights, whether through employee misconduct, breach of our computer systems, systems failure or otherwise, may subject us to liabilities, damage our reputation and cause us to lose clients.


Many of our contracts involve projects that are critical to the operations of our clients’ businesses and provide benefits to our clients that may be difficult to quantify. Any failure in a client’s system or any breach of security could result in a claim for substantial damages against us, regardless of our responsibility for such failure. Furthermore, any errors by our employees in the performance of services for a client, or poor execution of such services, could result in a client terminating our engagement and seeking damages from us.

 

In addition, while we have taken steps to protect the confidential information that we have access to, including confidential information we may obtain through usage of our cloud-based services, our security measures may be breached. If a cyber-attack or other security incident were to result in unauthorized access to or modification of our customers’ data or our own data or our IT systems or in disruption of the services we provide to our customers, or if our products or services are perceived as having security vulnerabilities, we could suffer significant damage to our business and reputation.

 

Although we attempt to limit our contractual liability for consequential damages in rendering our services, these limitations on liability may not apply in all circumstances, may be unenforceable in some cases, or may be insufficient to protect us from liability for damages. There may be instances when liabilities for damages are greater than the insurance coverage we hold and we will have to internalize those losses, damages and liabilities not covered by our insurance.

 

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Changes in privacy regulations may impose additional costs and liabilities on us, limit our use of information, and adversely affect our business.

 

Personal privacy has become a significant issue in the United States, Europe, and many other countries where we operate. Many government agencies and industry regulators continue to impose new restrictions and modify existing requirements about the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information. Changes to laws or regulations affecting privacy and security may impose additional liability and costs on us and may limit our use of such information in providing our services to customers. If we were required to change our business activities, revise or eliminate services or products, or implement burdensome compliance measures, our business and results of operations may be harmed. Additionally, we may be subject to regulatory enforcement actions resulting in fines, penalties, and potential litigation if we fail to comply with applicable privacy laws and regulations.

In particular, our European activities are subject to the European Union General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, which has created additional compliance requirements for us. GDPR broadens the scope of personal privacy laws to protect the rights of European Union citizens and requires organizations to report on data breaches within 72 hours and be bound by more stringent rules for obtaining the consent of individuals on how their data can be used. GDPR became enforceable on May 25, 2018 and non-compliance may expose entities such as our company to significant fines or other regulatory claims. In the United States, our operations in various states, such as New York and California, are now subject to expanded privacy regulations. In California, we are subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act, or CCPA, a statute that went into effect on January 1, 2020. The CCPA imposes enhanced disclosure requirements for us regarding our interactions with customers who are residents of California, such as comprehensive privacy notices for consumers when we, or our agents, collect their personal information. We may be further required to ensure third-party compliance, as under the CCPA we could be liable if third parties that collect, process or retain personal information on our behalf violate the CCPA’s privacy requirements. The sanctions for non-compliance could include fines and/or civil lawsuits.

While we have invested in, and intend to continue to invest in, reasonably necessary resources to comply with these standards, to the extent that we fail to adequately comply, that failure could have an adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and cash flows.

 

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Significant disruptions of our information technology systems or breaches of our data security could adversely affect our business.

A significant invasion, interruption, destruction or breakdown of our information technology, or IT, systems and/or infrastructure by persons with authorized or unauthorized access could negatively impact our business and operations. We could also experience business interruption, information theft and/or reputational damage from cyber attacks, which may compromise our systems and lead to data leakage internally. Both data that has been inputted into our main IT platform, which covers records of transactions, financial data and other data reflected in our results of operations, as well as data related to our proprietary rights (such as research and development, and other intellectual property- related data), are subject to material cyber security risks. Our IT systems have been, and are expected to continue to be, the target of malware and other cyber attacks. To date, we are not aware that we have experienced any loss of, or disruption to, material information as a result of any such malware or cyber attack.

We have invested in advanced detection, prevention and proactive systems to reduce these risks. Based on independent audits, we believe that our level of protection is in keeping with the industry standards of peer technology companies. We also maintain a disaster recovery solution, as a means of assuring that a breach or cyber attack does not necessarily cause the loss of our information. We furthermore review our protections and remedial measures periodically in order to ensure that they are adequate.

Despite these protective systems and remedial measures, techniques used to obtain unauthorized access are constantly changing, are becoming increasingly more sophisticated and often are not recognized until after an exploitation of information has occurred. We may be unable to anticipate these techniques or implement sufficient preventative measures, and we therefore cannot assure you that our preventative measures will be successful in preventing compromise and/or disruption of our information technology systems and related data. We furthermore cannot be certain that our remedial measures will fully mitigate the adverse financial consequences of any cyber attack or incident.

Errors or defects in our software solutions could inevitably arise and would harm our profitability and our reputation with customers, and could even give rise to liability claims against us.

 

The quality of our solutions, including new, modified or enhanced versions thereof, is critical to our success. Since our software solutions are complex, they may contain errors that cannot be detected at any point in their testing phase. While we continually test our solutions for errors or defects and work with customers to identify and correct them, errors in our technology may be found in the future. Testing for errors or defects is complicated because it is difficult to simulate the breadth of operating systems, user applications and computing environments that our customers use, and our solutions themselves are increasingly complex. Errors or defects in our technology have resulted in terminated work orders and could result in delayed or lost revenue, diversion of development resources and increased services, termination of work orders, damage to our brand and warranty and insurance costs in the future. In addition, time-consuming implementations may also increase the number of services personnel we must allocate to each customer, thereby increasing our costs and adversely affecting our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

In addition, since our customers rely on our solutions to operate, monitor and improve the performance of their business processes, they are sensitive to potential disruptions that may be caused by the use of, or any defects in, our software. As a result, we may be subject to claims for damages related to software errors in the future. Liability claims could require us to spend significant time and money in litigation or to pay significant damages. Regardless of whether we prevail, diversion of key employees’ time and attention from our business, the incurrence of substantial expenses and potential damage to our reputation might result. While the terms of our sales contracts typically limit our exposure to potential liability claims and we carry errors and omissions insurance against such claims, there can be no assurance that such insurance will continue to be available on acceptable terms, if at all, or that such insurance will provide us with adequate protection against any such claims. A significant liability claim against us could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial position.

Failure to meet customer expectations with respect to the implementation and use of our solutions could result in negative publicity, reduced sales and diversion of resources.

We generally provide our customers with upfront estimates regarding the duration, budget and costs associated with the implementation of our products. Implementation of our solutions is complex and meeting the anticipated duration, budget and costs often depend on factors relating to our customers or their other vendors. We may not meet the upfront estimates and expectations of our customers for the implementation of our solutions or the provision of our services as a result of factors within our control such as issues or limitations with our solutions, or factors beyond our control such as issues related to our system integrator partners or our customers’ IT employees.

If we fail to meet upfront estimates and the expectations of our customers for the implementation of our solutions, our reputation could be harmed, which could adversely affect our ability to attract new customers and sell additional solutions and services to existing customers.

Our business involves long-term, large projects, some of which are fixed-price projects that involve uncertainties, such as estimated project costs and profit margins, and which can therefore adversely affect our results of operations.

Our business is characterized by relatively large projects or engagements that can have a significant impact on our total revenue and cost of revenue from quarter to quarter. A high percentage of our expenses, particularly employee compensation, are relatively fixed. Therefore, a variation in the timing of the initiation, progress or completion of projects or engagements can cause significant variations in operating results from quarter to quarter.

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This is particularly the case on fixed-price contracts. Some of our solutions and services are sold as fixed-price projects with delivery requirements spanning more than one year. As our projects can be highly complex, we may not be able to accurately estimate our actual costs of completing a fixed-price project. If our actual cost-to-completion of these projects exceeds significantly the estimated costs, we could experience a loss on the related contracts, which would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position and cash flow.

Similarly, delays in executing client contracts (whether fixed price or not) may affect our revenue and cause our operating results to vary widely. Our solutions are delivered over periods of time ranging from several months to a few years. Payment terms are generally based on periodic payments or on the achievement of milestones. Any delays in payment or in the achievement of milestones may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

The market for software solutions and related services is highly competitive.

The market for software solutions and related services and for business solutions for the insurance and financial services industry in particular, is highly competitive. Many of our smaller competitors have been acquired by larger competitors, which provides such smaller competitors with greater resources and potentially a larger client base for which they can develop solutions. Our customers or potential customers may prefer suppliers that are larger than us, are better known in the market or that have a greater global reach. In addition, we and some of our competitors have developed systems to allow customers to outsource their core systems to external providers (known as BPO). We are seeking to partner with BPO providers, but there can be no assurance that such BPO providers will adopt our solutions rather than those of our competitors. Determinations by current and potential customers to use BPO providers that do not use our solutions may result in the loss of such customers and limit our ability to gain new customers.

Consolidation in the insurance industry in which some of our clients operate also increases competitiveness for us by reducing the number of potential clients for whose business we and our competitors compete. The high level of continuity with which insurance and other financial services clients remain with their providers of software-related services also increases general competitiveness by tying clients to their service providers and thereby shrinking the market of potential clients.

Incorrect or improper use of our products or our failure to properly train customers on how to implement or utilize our products could result in customer dissatisfaction and negatively affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and growth prospects.

 

Our products are complex and are deployed in a wide variety of network environments. The proper use of our solutions requires training of the customer. If our solutions are not used correctly or as intended, inadequate performance may result. Additionally, our customers or third-party partners may incorrectly implement or use our solutions. Our solutions may also be intentionally misused or abused by customers or their employees or third parties who are able to access or use our solutions. Similarly, our solutions are sometimes installed or maintained by customers or third parties with smaller or less qualified IT departments, potentially resulting in sub-optimal installation and, consequently, performance that is less than the level anticipated by the customer. Because our customers rely on our software, services and maintenance support to manage a wide range of operations, the incorrect or improper use of our solutions, our failure to properly train customers on how to efficiently and effectively use our solutions, or our failure to properly provide implementation or maintenance services to our customers has resulted in terminated work orders and may result in termination of work orders, negative publicity or legal claims against us in the future. Also, as we continue to expand our customer base, any failure by us to properly provide these services will likely result in lost opportunities for follow-on sales of our software and services.

 

In addition, if there is substantial turnover of customer personnel responsible for implementation and use of our products, or if customer personnel are not well trained in the use of our products, customers may defer the deployment of our products, may deploy them in a more limited manner than originally anticipated or may not deploy them at all. Further, if there is substantial turnover of the customer personnel responsible for implementation and use of our products, our ability to make additional sales may be substantially limited.

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The market for software solutions and related services is highly competitive.

 

The market for software solutions and related services and for business solutions for the insurance and financial services industry in particular, is highly competitive. Many of our smaller competitors have been acquired by larger competitors, which provides such smaller competitors with greater resources and potentially a larger client base for which they can develop solutions. Our customers or potential customers may prefer suppliers that are larger than us, are better known in the market or that have a greater global reach. In addition, we and some of our competitors have developed systems to allow customers to outsource their core systems to external providers (known as BPO). We are seeking to partner with BPO providers, but there can be no assurance that such BPO providers will adopt our solutions rather than those of our competitors. Determinations by current and potential customers to use BPO providers that do not use our solutions may result in the loss of such customers and limit our ability to gain new customers.

 

Consolidation in the insurance industry in which some of our clients operate also increases competitiveness for us by reducing the number of potential clients for whose business we and our competitors compete. The high level of continuity with which insurance and other financial services clients remain with their providers of software-related services also increases general competitiveness by tying clients to their service providers and thereby shrinking the market of potential clients.

Assertions by third parties of infringement or other violation by us of their intellectual property rights could result in significant costs and substantially harm our business and results of operations.

 

The software industry is characterized by the existence of a large number of patents and frequent claims and related litigation regarding patents and other intellectual property rights. In particular, leading companies in the software industry own large numbers of patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets, which they may use to assert claims against us. From time to time, third parties, including certain of these leading companies, may assert patent, copyright, trademark or other intellectual property claims against us, our customers and partners, and those from whom we license technology and intellectual property.

 

Although we believe that our products and services do not infringe upon the intellectual property rights of third parties, we cannot assure you that third parties will not assert infringement or misappropriation claims against us with respect to current or future products or services, or that any such assertions will not require us to enter into royalty arrangements or result in costly litigation, or result in us being unable to use certain intellectual property. We cannot assure you that we are not infringing or otherwise violating any third party intellectual property rights. Infringement assertions from third parties may involve patent holding companies or other patent owners who have no relevant product revenues, and therefore our own issued and pending patents may provide little or no deterrence to these patent owners in bringing intellectual property rights claims against us.


Any intellectual property infringement or misappropriation claim or assertion against us, our customers or partners, and those from whom we license technology and intellectual property could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, reputation and competitive position regardless of the validity or outcome. If we are forced to defend against any infringement or misappropriation claims, whether they are with or without merit, are settled out of court, or are determined in our favor, we may be required to expend significant time and financial resources on the defense of such claims. Furthermore, an adverse outcome of a dispute may require us to pay damages, potentially including treble damages and attorneys’ fees, if we are found to have willfully infringed on a party’s intellectual property; cease making, licensing or using our products or services that are alleged to infringe or misappropriate the intellectual property of others; expend additional development resources to redesign our products or services; enter into potentially unfavorable royalty or license agreements in order to obtain the right to use necessary technologies or works; and to indemnify our partners, customers, and other third parties. Royalty or licensing agreements, if required or desirable, may be unavailable on terms acceptable to us, or at all, and may require significant royalty payments and other expenditures. Any of these events could seriously harm our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, any lawsuits regarding intellectual property rights, regardless of their success, could be expensive to resolve and divert the time and attention of our management and technical personnel.

 

Although we apply measures to protect our intellectual property rights and our source code, there can be no assurance that the measures that we employ to do so will be successful.

 

In accordance with industry practice, since we have no registered patents on our software solution technologies, we rely on a combination of contractual provisions and intellectual property law to protect our proprietary technology. We believe that due to the dynamic nature of the computer and software industries, copyright protection is less significant than factors such as the knowledge and experience of our management and personnel, the frequency of product enhancements and the timeliness and quality of our support services. We seek to protect the source code of our products as trade secret information and as unpublished copyright works. We also rely on security and copy protection features in our proprietary software. We distribute our products under software license agreements that grant customers a personal, non-transferable license to use our products and contain terms and conditions prohibiting the unauthorized reproduction or transfer of our products. In addition, while we attempt to protect trade secrets and other proprietary information through non-disclosure agreements with employees, consultants and distributors, not all of our employees have signed invention assignment agreements. Although we intend to protect our rights vigorously, there can be no assurance that these measures will be successful. Our failure to protect our rights, or the improper use of our products by others without licensing them from us could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

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We and our customers rely on technology and intellectual property of third parties, the loss of which could limit the functionality of our products and disrupt our business.

 

We use technology and intellectual property licensed from unaffiliated third parties in certain of our products, and we may license additional third-party technology and intellectual property in the future. Any errors or defects in this third-party technology and intellectual property could result in errors that could harm our brand and business. In addition, licensed technology and intellectual property may not continue to be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. The loss of the right to license and distribute this third party technology could limit the functionality of our products and might require us to redesign our products.

 

Further, although we believe that there are currently adequate replacements for the third-party technology and intellectual property we presently use and distribute, the loss of our right to use any of this technology and intellectual property could result in delays in producing or delivering affected products until equivalent technology or intellectual property is identified, licensed or otherwise procured, and integrated. Our business would be disrupted if any technology and intellectual property we license from others or functional equivalents of this software were either no longer available to us or no longer offered to us on commercially reasonable terms. In either case, we would be required either to attempt to redesign our products to function with technology and intellectual property available from other parties or to develop these components ourselves, which would result in increased costs and could result in delays in product sales and the release of new product offerings. Alternatively, we might be forced to limit the features available in affected products. Any of these results could harm our business and impact our results of operations.

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We could be required to provide the source code of our products to our customers.

 

Some of our customers have the right to require the source code of our products to be deposited into a source code escrow. Under certain circumstances, our source code could be released to our customers. The conditions triggering the release of our source code vary by customer. A release of our source code would give our customers access to our trade secrets and other proprietary and confidential information which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Significant disruptions A few of our information technology systems or breachescustomers have the right to use the source code of our data security could adversely affect our business.

A significant invasion, interruption, destruction or breakdown of our information technology systems and/or infrastructure by persons with authorized or unauthorized access could negatively impact our business and operations. We could also experience business interruption, information theft and/or reputational damage from cyber attacks, which may compromise our systems and lead to data leakage either internally or at our third party providers. Our systems have been, and are expected to continue to be, the target of malware and other cyber attacks. Although we have invested in measures to reduce these risks, we cannot assure you that these measures will be successful in preventing compromise and/or disruption of our information technology systems and related data.

Catastrophes may adversely impact the P&C insurance industry, preventing us from expanding or maintaining our existing customer base and increasing our revenues.

Our customers include P&C insurance carriers that have experienced, and will likely experience in the future, catastrophe losses that adversely impact their businesses. Catastrophes can be caused by various events, including, amongst others, hurricanes, tsunamis, floods, windstorms, earthquakes, hail, tornados, explosions, severe weather and fires. Moreover, acts of terrorism or war could cause disruptions in our or our customers’ businesses or the economy as a whole. The risks associated with natural disasters and catastrophes are inherently unpredictable, and it is difficult to predict the timing of such events or estimate the amount of loss they will generate. In the event a future catastrophe adversely impacts our current or potential customers, we may be prevented from maintaining and expanding our customer base and from increasing our revenues because such events may cause customers to postpone purchases of new products and professional service engagements or discontinue projects.

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There may be consolidation in the P&C insurance industry, which could reduce the usesome of our products and services and adversely affect our revenues.

Mergers or consolidations among our customers could reducebased on the numberlicense agreements signed with such clients (mostly with respect to older versions of our customerssolutions), although such use is limited for specific matters and potential customers. This could adversely affect our revenues even ifcases, these events do not reduce the aggregate number of customers or the activities of the consolidated entities. If our customers merge with orclients are acquired by other entities that are not our customers, or that use fewerexposed to some of our productstrade secrets and services, they may discontinue or reduce their use of our productsother proprietary and services. Any of these developmentsconfidential information which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.harm us.

 

Some of our services and technologies may use “open source” software, which may restrict how we use or distribute our services or require that we release the source code of certain products subject to those licenses.

 

Some of our services and technologies may incorporate software licensed under so-called “open source” licenses, including, but not limited to, the GNU General Public License and the GNU Lesser General Public License. In addition to risks related to license requirements, usage of open source software can lead to greater risks than use of third-party commercial software, as open source licensors generally do not provide warranties or controls on origin of the software. Additionally, open source licenses typically require that source code subject to the license be made available to the public and that any modifications or derivative works to open source software continue to be licensed under open source licenses. These open source licenses typically mandate that proprietary software, when combined in specific ways with open source software, become subject to the open source license. If we combine our proprietary software with open source software, we could be required to release the source code of our proprietary software.

 

We take steps to ensure that our proprietary software is not combined with, and does not incorporate, open source software in ways that would require our proprietary software to be subject to an open source license. However, few courts have interpreted open source licenses, and the manner in which these licenses may be interpreted and enforced is therefore subject to some uncertainty. Additionally, we rely on multiple software programmers to design our proprietary technologies, and although we take steps to prevent our programmers from including open source software in the technologies and software code that they design, write and modify, we do not exercise complete control over the development efforts of our programmers and we cannot be certain that our programmers have not incorporated open source software into our proprietary products and technologies or that they will not do so in the future. In the event that portions of our proprietary technology are determined to be subject to an open source license, we could be required to publicly release the affected portions of our source code, re-engineer all or a portion of our technologies, or otherwise be limited in the licensing of our technologies, each of which could reduce or eliminate the value of our services and technologies and materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and prospects.

Catastrophes may adversely impact the P&C insurance industry, preventing us from expanding or maintaining our existing customer base and increasing our revenues.

Our customers include P&C insurance carriers that have experienced, and will likely experience in the future, catastrophe losses that adversely impact their businesses. Catastrophes can be caused by various events, including, amongst others, hurricanes, tsunamis, floods, windstorms, earthquakes, hail, tornados, explosions, severe weather and fires, or the spread of pandemics of disease, such as the cornoavirus. Moreover, acts of terrorism or war could cause disruptions in our or our customers’ businesses or the economy as a whole. The risks associated with natural disasters and catastrophes are inherently unpredictable, and it is difficult to predict the timing of such events or estimate the amount of loss they will generate. In the event a future catastrophe adversely impacts our current or potential customers, we may be prevented from maintaining and expanding our customer base and from increasing our revenues because such events may cause customers to postpone purchases of new products and professional service engagements or discontinue projects.


Decreases in the capital markets may adversely impact the life insurance industry, thereby preventing us from expanding or maintaining our existing customer base and increasing our revenues.

Our customers include life insurance carriers that have invested some of their funds in the capital markets. Those carriers may experience in the future major losses in those capital market investments that may cause disruptions to their businesses or to the economy as a whole. Any such major disruption, may cause those existing or potential new customers to postpone purchases of new products or professional service engagements, or discontinue existing projects, which, in turn, may prevent us from increasing our revenues, or from maintaining or expanding our customer base.

There may be consolidation in the insurance market, which could reduce the use of our products and services and adversely affect our revenues.

Mergers or consolidations among our customers could reduce the number of our customers and potential customers. This could adversely affect our revenues even if these events do not reduce the aggregate number of customers or the activities of the consolidated entities. If our customers merge with or are acquired by other entities that are not our customers, or that use fewer of our products and services, they may discontinue or reduce their use of our products and services. Any of these developments could materially and adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

Our indebtedness is subjectdeed of trust related to a floatingour Series B Debentures contains certain affirmative covenants and restrictive provisions that, if breached, could result in an increase in the interest rate and, subjects uspotentially, an acceleration of our obligation to debt service obligations that could have an adverseeffect on our continuing liquidity and financial condition.repay those debentures, which we may be unable to effect.

 

The repaymentIn the deed of the principal amount of the bank debttrust that we incurred in connection with our acquisition of StoneRiver, which was initially $40 million, is subject to the terms of the credit agreement that wehave entered into with the lender, HSBC Bank USA, National Association.trustee for the holders of our Series B Debentures, or the debentures, which we offered and sold in an Israeli public offering and Israeli private placement in September 2017, we have undertaken to maintain a number of conditions and limitations on the manner in which we can operate our business, including limitations on our ability to undergo a change of control, distribute dividends, incur a floating charge on our assets, or undergo an asset sale or other change that results in a fundamental change in our operations. The deed of trust also requires us to comply with certain financial covenants, including maintenance of a minimum shareholders’ equity level and a maximum ratio of financial indebtedness to shareholders’ equity, at levels that are customary for companies of comparable size. These limitations and covenants may force us to pursue less than optimal business strategies or forego business arrangements that could otherwise be financially advantageous to us and, by extension, our debenture holders. The deed of trust furthermore provides for an upwards adjustment in the interest rate payable on the loan is LIBOR plus 1.85%. Until repayment of the bank debt, we are subject to certain financial covenants. Our ability to make due payment of principal and interest and comply with the financial and other covenants under the credit agreement is subject to the risk factors described herein, and any failure to comply with the covenants could have an adverse effect on our liquidity and operations. This debt requires us to dedicate a portion of our cash flow to debt service, could impair our ability to obtain additional financing for capital expenditures or other purposes, could hinder our ability to adjust rapidly to changing market conditions and competitive pressures, and could make us more vulnerabledebentures in the event that our debentures’ rating is downgraded below a certain level. A breach of the financial covenants for more than two successive quarters or a downturnsubstantial downgrade in the Israeli rating of the debentures (below BBB-) would constitute an event of default that could result in the acceleration of our business or deteriorationobligation to repay the debentures, of general economic conditions. For further information concerning our indebtedness, see “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in Item 5 below and “HSBC Term Loan Credit Agreement” in Item 10.C below. Additionally, since our debtwhich there is subjectUS$58.9 million principal amount outstanding (as of March 1, 2020), which accelerated repayment may be difficult for us to a floating rate of interest, an increase in LIBOR could adversely affect us.effect.

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Risks Relating to Our International Operations

 

Our international sales and operations subject us to additional risks that can adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

We are continuing to expand our international operations as part of our growth strategy. In fiscal years 20152018 and 2016, 67%2019, 52.8% and 66%49.8%, respectively, of our revenues were derived from outside of North America. Our current international operations and our plans to further expand our international operations subject us to a variety of risks, including:

 

 increasedIncreased exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;rates
   
 complexityComplexity in our tax planning, and increased exposure to changes in tax regulations in various jurisdictions in which we operate, which could adversely affect our operating results and frustrate our ability to conduct effective tax planning;   planning

 
increasedIncreased management, travel, infrastructure and legal compliance costs associated with having multiple international operations;operations
   
 longerLonger payment cycles and difficulties in enforcing contracts and collecting accounts receivable;receivable
   
 theThe need to localize our products and licensing programs for international customers;customers
   
 lackLack of familiarity with and unexpected changes in foreign regulatory requirements;requirements
   
 the burdensThe burden of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws and legal standards;standards
   
 complianceCompliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, or FCPA, particularly in emerging market countries;countries
   
 importThe potential worsening of the coronavirus outbreak on a global scale, which may cause customers to cancel projects with us, prevent potential future opportunities for our business and harm our ability to maintain a healthy workforce that can implement our services and solutions offerings
The unknown and potential adverse impact of Brexit on our EU- and UK- based operations and revenues
Import and export license requirements, tariffs, taxes and other trade barriers;barriers
   
 increasedIncreased financial accounting and reporting burdens and complexities;complexities
   
 weakerWeaker protection of intellectual property rights in some countries;countries
   
 multipleMultiple and possibly overlapping tax regimes; andregimes
   
 political,Political, social and economic instability abroad, terrorist attacks and general security concerns in general.

 

As we continue to expand our business globally, our success will depend, in large part, on our ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other risks associated with our international operations. Any of these risks could harm our international operations and reduce our international sales, adversely affecting our business, results of operations, financial condition and growth prospects.

 

International operations in the insurance industry, in which a significant portion of our business is concentrated, isare accompanied by additional costs related to adaptation to regulations in specific territories.

 

As we seek to expand the marketing and offering of our products into new territories, because insurance regulations vary by legal jurisdiction, the investment required to adapt our solutions to the legal and language requirements of such territories may prevent or delay us from effectively expanding into such territories. Such adaptation process requires the retention of new, additional skilled personnel with knowledge of the particular market and applicable regulatory regime. Such skilled personnel may not be available at a reasonable cost relative to the additional revenues that we expect to recognize in those territories, or may not be available at all.

 

Our international operations expose us to risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates that could adversely affect our business.

 

Most of our revenues are derived from international operations that are conducted in local currencies, includingcurrencies. Those operations are conducted in US dollars, GBP, EURO, New Israeli Shekels, orEuro, NIS, Japanese Yen, or JPY, Indian rupee, or INR, and Polish zloty, or PLN. In 20152018 and 2016,2019, our revenues were approximately 36%56.9% and 37%55.6%, respectively, in US dollars, with the remainder in the other currencies.

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In some territories, like in Israel, India and Poland, our cost of operations in local currency is higher than the revenues derived from such operations. In other territories, our revenues are higher than our cost of operations in local currency. Because exchange rates between the NIS, GBP, Euro, JPY, INR and the PLN against the US dollar fluctuate continuously, exchange rate fluctuations and especially larger periodic devaluations could negatively affect our revenue and profitability.

 

In certain locations, we engage in currency-hedging transactions intended to reduce the effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates on our financial position and results of operations. However, there can be no assurance that any such hedging transactions will materially reduce the effect of fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates on such results. In addition, if for any reason exchange or price controls or other restrictions on the conversion of foreign currencies were imposed, our financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

The tax benefits that are available to our Israeli subsidiaries require us to continue to meet various conditions andOur business may be terminatedmaterially affected by changes to fiscal and tax policies. Potentially negative or reduced inunexpected tax consequences of these policies, or the future, whichuncertainty surrounding their potential effects, could increaseadversely affect our costsresults of operations and taxes.share price.

 

SomeAs a multinational corporation, we are subject to income taxes, withholding taxes and indirect taxes in numerous jurisdictions worldwide. Significant judgment and management attention and resources are required in evaluating our tax positions and our worldwide provision for taxes. In the ordinary course of business, there are many activities and transactions for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. In addition, our tax obligations and effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in the relevant tax, accounting, and other laws, regulations, principles and interpretations. This may include recognizing tax losses or lower than anticipated earnings in jurisdictions where we have lower statutory rates and higher than anticipated earnings in jurisdictions where we have higher statutory rates, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, or changes in the valuation of our Israeli subsidiaries have been granted “Approved Enterprise”deferred tax assets and “Benefited Enterprise” status, which provide certain benefits, including tax exemptions and reduced tax rates under the Israeli Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, referred to as the Investment Law. Income not eligible for Approved Enterprise and Benefited Enterprise benefits is taxed at the regular corporate tax rate (25% in 2016, 24% in 2017 and 23% in 2018 and thereafter).liabilities.

 

In the event of distribution of dividendsWe may be audited in various jurisdictions, and such jurisdictions may assess additional taxes against us. If we experience unfavorable results from said tax-exempt income, the amount distributed will be subject to corporateone or more such tax at the rate that would have otherwise been applicable on the Approved/Benefited Enterprise’s income.

The entitlement to the above benefits is conditional upon the fulfillment of the conditions stipulated by the Investment Law and applicable regulations. Should the Israeli subsidiaries fail to meet such requirements, income attributable to the Approved Enterprise and Benefited Enterprise programsaudits, there could be subject to the statutory Israeli corporatean adverse effect on our tax rate and theytherefore on our net income. Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, the final determination of any tax audits or litigation could be materially different from our historical tax provisions and accruals, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results or cash flows in the period or periods for which a determination is made. Additionally, we are subject to transfer pricing rules and regulations, including those relating to the flow of funds between us and our affiliates, which are designed to ensure that appropriate levels of income are reported in each jurisdiction in which we operate.

As we continue to expand our business in emerging markets, such as India, we face increasing challenges that could adversely impact our results of operations, reputation and business.

One-third of our employees are currently located in India. Our significant presence in India, in particular our Research & Development personnel and our personnel for the delivery of our professional services, poses a number of challenges. These challenges are related to more volatile economic conditions, poor protection of intellectual property, inadequate protection against crime (including counterfeiting, corruption and fraud), lack of due process, and inadvertent breaches of local laws or regulations. In addition, local business practices may be requiredinconsistent with international regulatory requirements, such as anti-corruption and anti-bribery laws and regulations (including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act) to refund a portionwhich we are subject. It is possible that some of the tax benefits already receivedour employees, subcontractors, agents or partners may violate such legal and regulatory requirements, which may expose us to criminal or civil enforcement actions, including penalties and suspension or disqualification from U.S. federal procurement contracting. If we fail to comply with respect to such programs.legal and regulatory requirements, our business and reputation may be harmed.

 

Conducting business in India involves unique challenges, including potential political instability; threats of terrorism; the transparency, consistency and effectiveness of business regulation; corruption; the protection of intellectual property; and the availability of sufficient qualified local personnel. Any of these or other challenges associated with operating in India may adversely affect our business or operations. Terrorist activity in India and Pakistan has contributed to tensions between those countries and our operations in India may be adversely affected by future political and other events in the region.


Risks Related to an Investment in our Common Shares

 

There is relatively limited trading volume for our common shares, which reduces liquidity for our shareholders, and may furthermore cause the share price to be volatile, all of which may lead to losses by investors.

 

There has historically been limited trading volume in our common shares, both on the NASDAQ Capital Market and the TASE. While recentlyover the past couple of years, there has been improvement, the trading volume is still limited,relatively low, which results in reduced liquidity for our shareholders. As a further result of the historically limited volume, our common shares have experienced significant market price volatility in the past and may experience significant market price and volume fluctuations in the future, in response to factors such as announcements of developments related to our business, announcements by competitors, quarterly fluctuations in our financial results and general conditions in the industry in which we compete.

 

We are a foreign private issuer under the rules and regulations of the SEC and are therefore exempt from a number of rules under the Exchange Act and are permitted to file less information with the SEC than a domestic U.S. reporting company, which reduces the level and amount of disclosure that you receive.

 

As a foreign private issuer under the Exchange Act, we are exempt from certain rules under the Exchange Act, including the proxy rules, which impose certain disclosure and procedural requirements for proxy solicitations. Moreover, we are not required to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as domestic U.S. companies with securities registered under the Exchange Act; and are not required to comply with Regulation FD, which imposes certain restrictions on the selective disclosure of material information. In addition, our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and “short-swing” profit recovery provisions of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules under the Exchange Act with respect to their purchases and sales of our common shares. Accordingly, you receive less information about our company than you would receive about a domestic U.S. company, and are afforded less protection under the U.S. federal securities laws than you would be afforded in holding securities of a domestic U.S. company.

 

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As a foreign private issuer, we are also permitted, and have begun, to follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of those otherwise required under the Listing Rules of the NASDAQ Stock Market for domestic U.S. issuers. We have informed NASDAQ that we follow home country practice practice—in Curaçaothe Cayman Islands— with regard to, among other things, composition of our Board of Directors (whereby a majority of the members of our Board of Directors need not be “independent directors,” as is generally required for domestic U.S. issuers), director nomination procedure and approval of compensation of officers. In addition, we have opted to follow home country law instead of the Listing Rules of the NASDAQ Stock Market that require that a listed company obtain shareholder approval for certain dilutive events, such as the establishment or amendment of certain equity-based compensation plans, an issuance that will result in a change of control of the Company, certain transactions other than a public offering involving issuances of a 20% or greater interest in the Company, and certain acquisitions of the stock or assets of another company. Following our home country governance practices as opposed to the requirements that would otherwise apply to a United States company listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market may provide our shareholders with less protection than they would have as stockholders of a domestic U.S. company.

 

Our controlling shareholder, Formula Systems (1985) Ltd., beneficially owns approximately 48.9%47.8% of our outstanding Common Shares and therefore asserts a controlling influence over matters requiring shareholder approval, which could delay or prevent a change of control that may benefit our public shareholders.

 

Formula Systems (1985) Ltd.beneficially owns approximately 48.9%47.8% of our outstanding Common Shares. As a result, it exercises a controlling influence over our operations and business strategy and has sufficient voting power to control the outcome of various matters requiring shareholder approval. These matters may include:

 

theThe composition of our board of directors, which has the authority to direct our business and to appoint and remove our officers;officers


approvingApproving or rejecting a merger, consolidation or other business combination;combination

 

raisingRaising future capital; andcapital

 

amendingAmending our Articles, which govern the rights attached to our Common Shares.Shares

 

This concentration of ownership of our Common Shares could delay or prevent proxy contests, mergers, tender offers, open-market purchase programs or other purchases of our Common Shares that might otherwise give you the opportunity to realize a premium over the then-prevailing market price of our Common Shares. This concentration of ownership may also adversely affect our share price.

 

Our U.S. shareholders may suffer adverse tax consequences if we are classified as a passive foreign investment company or as a “controlled foreign corporation”.

Generally, if for any taxable year 75% or more of our gross income is passive income, or at least 50% of the average quarterly value of our assets (which may be measured in part by the market value of our Common Shares, which is subject to change) are held for the production of, or produce, passive income, we would be characterized as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code. Based on our gross income and gross assets, and the nature of our business, we believe that we were not classified as a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2019. Because PFIC status is determined annually based on our income, assets and activities for the entire taxable year, it is not possible to determine whether we will be characterized as a PFIC for the taxable year ending December 31, 2020, or for any subsequent year, until we finalize our financial statements for that year. Furthermore, because the value of our gross assets is likely to be determined in large part by reference to our market capitalization, a decline in the value of our Common Shares may result in our becoming a PFIC. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for any taxable year. Our characterization as a PFIC could result in material adverse tax consequences for you if you are a U.S. investor, including having gains realized on the sale of our Common Shares treated as ordinary income, rather than a capital gain, the loss of the preferential rate applicable to dividends received on our Common Shares by individuals who are U.S. holders, and having interest charges apply to distributions by us and the proceeds of share sales. Certain elections exist that may alleviate some of the adverse consequences of PFIC status and would result in an alternative treatment (such as mark-to-market treatment) of our Common Shares. Prospective U.S. investors should consult their own tax advisers regarding the potential application of the PFIC rules to them. Prospective U.S. investors should refer to “Item 10.E. Taxation—U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations” for discussion of additional U.S. income tax considerations applicable to them based on our treatment as a PFIC.

Certain U.S. holders of our Common Shares may suffer adverse tax consequences if we or any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries are characterized as a “controlled foreign corporation,” or a CFC, under Section 957(a) of the Code. Certain changes to the CFC constructive ownership rules under Section 958(b) of the Code introduced by the U.S. Tax Act may cause one or more of our non-U.S. subsidiaries to be treated as CFCs, may also impact our CFC status, and may adversely affect holders of our Common Shares that are United States shareholders. Generally, for U.S. shareholders that own 10% or more of the combined vote or combined value of our Common Shares, this may result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences and these shareholders may be subject to certain reporting requirements with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Any such 10% U.S. shareholder should consult its own tax advisors regarding the U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, owning, or disposing our Common Shares and the impact of the U.S. Tax Act, especially the changes to the rules relating to CFCs.


Risks Related to Our Israeli Operations and Our Status as a CuraçaoCayman Islands Company

 

The tax benefits that are available to us require us to continue to meet various conditions and may be terminated or reduced in the future, which could increase our costs and taxes

We derive and expect to continue to derive significant benefits from various programs, including Israeli tax benefits relating to our “Preferred Technology Enterprise”, or PTE programs. To be eligible for tax benefits as a Preferred Technology Enterprise, we must continue to meet certain conditions.  If we do not meet the conditions stipulated in the Israeli Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 5719-1959, or the Investment Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder, as amended, for the PTE, any of the associated tax benefits may be cancelled and we would be required to repay the amount of such benefits, in whole or in part, including interest and consumer price index, or CPI, linkage (or other monetary penalties). Further, in the future these tax benefits may be reduced or discontinued. While we believe that we have met and continue to meet the conditions that entitle us to previously-obtained Israeli tax benefits, there can be no assurance that the Israeli Tax Authority will agree.

The Israeli government grants that our Israeli subsidiary has received require us to meet several conditions and restrict our ability to manufacture products and transfer know-how developed using such grants outside of Israel and require us to satisfy specified conditions.

 

One of our Israeli subsidiaries received grants in the past from the government of Israel through the National Technological Innovation Authority, or the Innovation Authority (formerly operating as Office of the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Economy of the State of Israel, or the OCS), for the financing of a portion of its research and development expenditures in Israel with respect to our legacy technology. In consideration for receiving grants from the OCS,Innovation Authority, we are obligated to pay the Innovation Authority royalties from the revenues generated from the sale of products (and related services) developed (in whole or in part) using the OCSInnovation Authority funds, in an amount that is up to 100% to 150% of the aggregate amount of the total grants that we received from the OCS,Innovation Authority, plus annual interest for grants received after January 1, 1999. We must fully and originally own any intellectual property developed using the OCSInnovation Authority grants and any right derived therefrom unless transfer thereof is approved in accordance with the provisions of the Israeli Encouragement of Research, Development and Technological Innovation Law, 5744-1984, or the Innovation Law (formerly known as the Encouragement of Industrial Research and Development Law, 5744-1984, or the Research Law), and related regulations.

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When a company develops know-how, technology or products using grants provided by the Innovation Authority, the terms of these grants and the Innovation Law restrict the transfer of such know-how, and the transfer of manufacturing or manufacturing rights of such products, technologies or know-how outside of Israel. Even after the repayment of such grants in full, we will remain subject to the restrictions set forth under the Innovation Law, including:

 

·Transfer of know-how outside of Israel. Any transfer of the know-how that was developed with the funding of the Innovation Authority, outside of Israel, requires prior approval of the Innovation Authority, and the payment of a redemption fee.

 

·Local manufacturing obligation. The terms of the grants under the Innovation Law require that the manufacturing of products resulting from Innovation Authority-funded programs be carried out in Israel, unless a prior written approval of the Innovation Authority is obtained (except for a transfer of up to 10% of the production rights, for which a notification to the Innovation Authority is sufficient).

 

·Certain reporting obligations. We, as any recipient of a grant or a benefit under the Innovation Law, are required to file reports on the progress of activities for which the grant was provided as well as on our revenues from know-how and products funded by the Innovation Authority. In addition, we are required to notify the Innovation Authority of certain events detailed in the Innovation Law.

 

Therefore, if aspects of our technologies are deemed to have been developed with OCSInnovation Authority funding, the discretionary approval of an OCSInnovation Authority committee would be required for any transfer to third parties outside of Israel of know-how or manufacturing or manufacturing rights related to those aspects of such technologies. We may not receive those approvals. Furthermore, the OCSInnovation Authority may impose certain conditions on any arrangement under which it permits us to transfer technology or development out of Israel.

 

The transfer of OCS-supportedInnovation Authority-supported technology or know-how outside of Israel may involve the payment of significant amounts, depending upon the value of the transferred technology or know-how, the amount of OCSInnovation Authority support, the time of completion of the OCS-supportedInnovation Authority-supported research project and other factors. Furthermore, the consideration available to our shareholders in a transaction involving the transfer outside of Israel of technology or know-how developed with OCSInnovation Authority funding (such as a merger or similar transaction) may be reduced by any amounts that we are required to pay to the OCS.Innovation Authority.


We received grants from the OCSInnovation Authority prior to an extensive amendment to the Research Law that came into effect as of January 1, 2016, or the Amendment, which may also affect the terms of existing grants. The Amendment provides for an interim transition period (which has not yet expired), after which time our grants will be subject to terms of the Amendment. Under the Research Law, as amended by the Amendment, the Innovation Authority is provided with a power to modify the terms of existing grants. Such changes, if introduced by the Innovation Authority in the future, may impact the terms governing our grants.

 

WeOur shareholders may face difficulties in protecting their interests because we are not subject to the supervision of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, so our shareholders are not protected by any regulatory inspections in Curaçao.incorporated under Cayman Islands law

 

We are not subject to any regulatory supervision in Curaçao by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. As a result, shareholders are not protected by any regulatory supervision or inspections by any regulatory agency in Curaçao, and we are not required to observe any restrictions in respect of its conduct, except to the extent disclosed in our annual report or our Articles.

We have been granted an exemption under the Foreign Exchange Regulations Curaçao and Sint Maarten enacted by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (referred to as the FX Regulations). As a result of this exemption, we are exempted from certain conditions, regulations and provisions stemming from the FX Regulations relating to, among other things, capital transactions with non-residents of Curaçao (including dividend payments) and license fees on payments to non-residents of Curaçao. The exemption has been granted subject to our compliance with certain conditions, and the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten can revoke the exemption should we no longer comply with one or more of those conditions. Those conditions include that none of our activities may take place in Curaçao or Sint Maarten, that we may not offer goods and services to residents of Curaçao or Sint Maarten, that we may not participate in Curaçao and Sint Maarten resident companies and that we may not extend loans to residents of Curaçao or Sint Maarten. Furthermore, residents of Curaçao or Sint Maarten may not be holders of our Common Shares.

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The rights of shareholders under Curaçao law differ from those under U.S. law, and you may have fewer protections as a shareholder.

Our corporate affairs are governed by our memorandum of association, or the Memorandum, our articles of association, or the Articles, the Civil CodeCompanies Law (2016 Revision) of Curaçaothe Cayman Islands, or the Companies Law, and the civilcommon law of Curaçao.the Cayman Islands. The rights of shareholders to take legal action against our directors, actions by minority shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under Curaçao law are to a large extent governed by the Civil Codelaws of Curaçao, the civil law of Curaçao and applicable case law. The rights of shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under Curaçao lawCayman Islands are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial precedentsprecedent as in some jurisdictions in the U.S. In particular, Curaçao has a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the U.S., and some states (such as Delaware) have more fully developed and judicially interpreted bodies of corporate law. In addition, Curaçao law does not generally distinguish between public and private companies, and some of the protections and safeguards (such as statutory pre-emption rights, except to the extent that they are expressly provided for in the Articles) that investors may expect to find in relation to a public company are not provided for under Curaçao law. As a result of all of the above, holders of our Common SharesUnited States. Therefore, you may have more difficulty in protecting theiryour interests in the face of actions taken by our management, directors or major shareholders than they would as shareholders of a U.S. company.corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States, due to the comparatively less developed nature of Cayman Islands law in this area.

 

The Companies Law permits mergers and consolidations between Cayman Islands companies and between Cayman Islands companies and non-Cayman Islands companies. Dissenting shareholders have the right to be paid the fair value of their shares (which, if not agreed between the parties, will be determined by the Cayman Islands court) if they follow the required procedures, subject to certain exceptions. Court approval is not required for a merger or consolidation which is effected in compliance with these statutory procedures.

In addition, there are statutory provisions that facilitate the reconstruction and amalgamation of companies, provided that the arrangement is approved by a majority in number of each class of shareholders and creditors with whom the arrangement is to be made, and who must in addition represent three-fourths in value of each such class of shareholders or creditors, as the case may be, that are present and voting either in person or by proxy at a meeting convened for that purpose. The convening of the meeting and subsequently the arrangement must be sanctioned by the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands. A dissenting shareholder has the right to express to the court the view that the transaction ought not to be approved.

When a takeover offer is made and accepted by holders of 90.0% of the shares within four months, the offeror may, within a two-month period, require the holders of the remaining shares to transfer such shares on the terms of the offer. An objection can be made to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands but this is unlikely to succeed unless there is evidence of fraud, bad faith or collusion.

If the arrangement and reconstruction is thus approved, the dissenting shareholder would have no rights comparable to appraisal rights, which would otherwise ordinarily be available to dissenting shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States, providing rights to receive payment in cash for the judicially determined value of the shares. This may make it more difficult for you to assess the value of any consideration you may receive in a merger or consolidation or to require that the offeror give you additional consideration if you believe the consideration offered is insufficient.

Shareholders of Cayman Islands exempted companies have no general rights under Cayman Islands law to inspect corporate records and accounts or to obtain copies of lists of shareholders. Our directors have discretion under our Memorandum and Articles to determine whether or not, and under what conditions, our corporate records may be inspected by our shareholders, but are not obliged to make them available to our shareholders. This may make it more difficult for you to obtain the information needed to establish any facts necessary for a shareholder motion or to solicit proxies from other shareholders in Curaçao companiesconnection with a proxy contest.

Subject to limited exceptions, under Cayman Islands law, a minority shareholder may not be ablebring a derivative action against the board of directors.


Our home jurisdiction, the Cayman Islands, has been added by the European Council to initiate shareholder derivative actions, thereby deprivingthe EU’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, commonly referred to as the ‘EU blacklist’. This status, if not removed, may have an adverse impact upon our reputation and, potentially, our financial condition and results of our activities.

In February 2020, the Cayman Islands was added to a shareholderlist of non-cooperativejurisdictions for tax purposes, commonly referred to as the ‘EU blacklist’. It is commonly believed that the reason for the inclusion of the abilityCayman Islands in that list was due to protect its interests.having missed the EU’s deadline (end of 2019) for the introduction of legislation for the registration of private funds domiciled in the Cayman Islands (the legislation was introduced in the last quarter of 2019, but did not formally become law until early February 2020).

While there is a common expectation that the Cayman Islands will be removed from the blacklist when the list is next updated, in March 2020, we cannot assure you that will be the case. The reputational harm associated with our being a Cayman Islands entity could potentially have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations if that status continues for an extended period of time.

Service of process and enforcement of legal proceedings commenced against us in the United States may be difficult to obtain.

 

Derivative actions are not permitted in Curaçao. Under Curaçao law, onlyWe operate under the Company may bring a civil action against a person who is liable to a Curaçao public limited liability company. Shareholders in Curaçao companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action in a federal courtlaws of the U.S. The circumstances in which any such actionCayman Islands and a majority of our assets are located outside of the United States. In addition, most of our directors and executive officers reside outside of the United States. As a result, it may be brought,difficult for investors to affect service of process within the United States upon us and the proceduressuch other persons, or to enforce judgments obtained against such persons in United States courts, and defenses that may be available in respect tobring any such action, may result inincluding actions predicated upon the rights of shareholders of a Curaçao company being more limited than those of shareholders of a company organized in the U.S. Accordingly, shareholders may have fewer alternatives available to them if they believe that corporate wrongdoing has occurred. The Curaçao courts are also unlikely to: (i) recognize or enforce against us judgments of courts in the U.S. based on certain civil liability provisions of U.S.the United States securities law; or (ii)laws. In addition, it may be difficult for investors to impose liabilities against us,enforce, in original actions brought in Curaçao, basedcourts or jurisdictions located outside of the United States, rights predicated upon the United States securities laws.

Based on certain civil liability provisionsthe advice of U.S. securities lawsour Cayman Islands legal counsel, we believe no reciprocal statutory enforcement of foreign judgments exists between the United States and the Cayman Islands, and that foreign judgments originating from the United States are penal in nature. There is no statutory recognition in Curaçao of judgments obtainednot directly enforceable in the U.S., althoughCayman Islands. A prevailing party in a United States proceeding against us or our officers or directors would have to initiate a new proceeding in the Cayman Islands using the United States judgment as evidence of the party’s claim. A prevailing party could rely on the summary judgment procedures available in the Cayman Islands, subject to available defenses in the Cayman Islands courts, including, but not limited to, the lack of competent jurisdiction in the United States courts, lack of due service of process in the United States proceeding and the possibility that enforcement or recognition of the United States judgment would be contrary to the public policy of the Cayman Islands.

Depending on the nature of damages awarded, civil liabilities under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act for original actions instituted outside the Cayman Islands may or may not be enforceable. For example, a United States judgment awarding remedies unobtainable in any legal action in the courts of Curaçao will in certain circumstances recognize and enforce the non-penal judgment of a foreign court of competent jurisdiction without retrial on the merits.Cayman Islands, such as treble damages, would likely not be enforceable under any circumstances.

 

The laws of Curaçao provide little protection for minority shareholders, so minority shareholders will have little or no recourse if the shareholders are dissatisfied with the conduct of our affairs.

Under the laws of Curaçao, there is little statutory protection for minority shareholders other than the provisions of the Civil Code of Curaçao, which provides for shareholder remedies. Minority shareholders of a Curaçao company may commence legal proceedings against the company in which they hold shares on the following grounds:

tort (onrechtmatige daad)- a tortious act may arise if a company makes certain promises to the shareholders, the shareholders could expect a certain attitude from the company according to rules of “reasonableness and fairness,” and the company does not comply therewith;
breach of contract- assuming there is any specific contract between the minority shareholders and the company; and
nullification of resolutions- if a resolution is approved in violation of the provisions of Curacao law or the articles of association as to how the decision needs to be taken, or in violation of rules, or in case a resolution to amend the articles adversely affects the legal position of a person involved in the company (such as a minority shareholder), provided such person has a serious interest, the resolution can be nullified.

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Under Curaçao law, shareholders who satisfy certain threshold requirements can initiate inquiry proceedings with the joint Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. Such inquiry proceedings can relate to the policy of the company and its business as well as to the (deficient) functioning of the company as such. The Court of Justice will only order an inquiry if it finds that well-founded reasons exist to doubt the soundness of the policies of the company or the conduct of its business. This is not restricted to the policies of the governing bodies of the company (for example, the board) but can also pertain to acts or omissions of the general meeting of shareholders. During the proceedings, the Court of Justice may impose immediate provisional measures, such as a temporary amendment to the articles of association of the company and the appointment of interim board members.

In addition to the above, there are alternative claims under Curaçao law available for minority shareholders who seek relief for alleged wrongful acts by a company, its directors or the majority shareholders, such as contesting the corporate resolutions of a company and requesting the majority shareholders to purchase the stake of the minority shareholders (uittreding). However, these alternative possibilities are very cumbersome and time-consuming and may not be instituted in respect of shares which are traded at a stock exchange.

Curacao law makes it more difficult for us to enter into a change of control transaction in which we are acquired and you are paid a premium on the shares that you hold in our company.

Our status as a Curacao company makes it more challenging (compared to Israel and various US states) to consummate a change of control transaction in which our company is acquired and our shareholders benefit economically via the payment of a premium on their shares relative to the then-current market price. Under Curacao law, there is no legal basis for a reverse triangular merger, a commonly-utilized transaction structure for the acquisition of publicly traded companies such as ours, in which shareholders receive cash. Curacao law allows for the acquisition of a publicly traded company such as ours for cash through a tender offer, provided that the offeror acquires at least 95% of the company's issued and outstanding share capital (which 95% threshold may be reduced under certain circumstances to 90% or 80% in case of a pre-wired asset sale), following which the offeror can purchase the remaining shares subject to court approval and possibly the exercise of certain dissenters' rights. Since Curacao law does not permit a cash merger and due to the challenges in obtaining such level of acceptance of the tender offer, a potential buyer might need to use different structures to acquire our company, e.g. migrating the company to another jurisdiction that allows for a cash merger as a means to acquire publicly traded companies; however, such process may be very time-consuming and could therefore prevent such a transaction from occurring. An additional option under Curacao law is a sale of assets, which is likely to be generally less efficient to our shareholders from a tax perspective.  Each of the foregoing limitations or disadvantages of effecting an acquisition of our company or its assets in which shareholders realize a premium could furthermore adversely impact the market price of our shares in an ongoing manner.   

Item 4.Information on the Company

 

A.History and Development of the Company.

Corporate Details

 

Our legal and commercial name is Sapiens International Corporation N.V., and we were incorporated and registered in Curaçao on April 6, 1990. We areIn August 2018, following shareholder approval, we migrated the legal domicile of our company to the Cayman Islands and now operate as a public limited liability company and operate under the provisions of the Curaçao Commercial Code. In addition, weCompanies Law (2016 Revision) of the Cayman Islands. We are registered as an Israeli company for tax purposes only. Our principal place of business is located at Azrieli Center, 26 Harokmim Street, Holon, 5885800, Israel, and our telephone number there is +972-3-790-2000. Sapiens Americas Corporation is our agent in the United States. Our World Wide Web address is www.sapiens.com. The information contained on thethat web site is not a part of this annual report.report and is not incorporated by reference herein. Our SEC filings are available to you on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. This site contains reports and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The information on that website is not part of this annual report and is not incorporated by reference herein. Except as described elsewhere in this annual report, we have not had any important events in the development of our business since January 1, 2016.2019.

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Capital Expenditures and Divestitures since January 1, 20142017

In the third quarter of 2014, we acquired Knowledge Partners International LLC, or KPI, and the assets of The Decision Model, or TDM, for total consideration of $2.1 million in cash and 57,000 ordinary shares of Sapiens Decision, our subsidiary which holds all of the interests in KPI (representing 3% of Sapiens Decision’s issued and outstanding ordinary shares immediately prior to closing). In addition, one of the shareholders of KPI received 88,500 restricted shares of Sapiens Decision (of which 29,500 vested during each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016) plus $450,000 in cash, subject to certain performance criteria. The agreements for the foregoing acquisitions included, among other things, certain put and call options relating to the Sapiens Decision shares issued upon consummation of the transaction and certain other benefits payable upon the occurrence of certain conditions. For further information, please see Note 1(d) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the second quarter of 2015, we acquired IBEXI Solutions Private Limited, or IBEXI, an India-based provider of insurance solutions and services, which services 18 insurers in both the P&C and L&P markets throughout Southeast Asia. The total purchase price in this acquisition was approximately $4.8 million, which we paid in cash at the closing, and which is subject to adjustment based on certain future criteria. For further information, please see Note 1(b) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the third quarter of 2015, we acquired Insseco, a Poland-based software and services provider for the insurance market, from Asseco Poland S.A., or Asseco, the indirect controlling shareholder of our company, which helped us to establish a strong presence in the Polish insurance market. We paid approximately $9.1 million in cash for Insseco, subject to upwards adjustment based on its achieving future revenue goals. For further information, please see Note 1(b) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the third quarter of 2016, we acquiredMaximum Processing Inc., or MaxPro,a privately-held company headquartered in Bradenton, Florida, with offices in Garner, North Carolina. MaxPro is the provider of the Stingray System, a P&C insurance administration suite targeted towards the tier 4-5 U.S. market, as well as managing general agents, or MGAs, third-party administrators, or TPAs, and insurance brokers. We paid $4.3 million in cash for this acquisition (including $1.5 million that we placed in escrow at the closing). The seller also has the right to receive performance based payments of up to $2.6 million relating to achievements of revenue and profitability goals over three years (2016, 2017, 2018), which are also subject to continued employment. For further information, please see Note 1(b) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the third quarter of 2016, we acquired4Sight Business Intelligence Inc., or 4Sight, a provider of business intelligence reports that is based in Austin, Texas. 4Sight offers insurance-specific business intelligence, or BI, solutions, including 4SightBI, a P&C-specific, off-the-shelf business intelligence (BI) product. We paid $330,000 in cash for this acquisition. In addition, the seller of 4Sight may receive additional performance-based payments of up to $2.6 million relating to achievements of revenue and profitability goals over three years (2016, 2017, 2018), which are also subject to continued employment. For further information, please see Note 1(b) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

 

In the first quarter of 2017, we acquired StoneRiver, a Denver, Colorado-basedUS-based provider of a wide range of technology solutions and services to insurance carriers, agents, and broker-dealers, whose product groups encompass front-office, policy, claim, rating, underwriting, billing,P&C solutions, Life solutions, workers compensation, reinsurance solutions and reinsurance solutionsF&C for all major business lines. The acquisition will enablehas enabled us to expand the range of solutions and services that we offer in North America. We paid approximately $100$101 million in cash, subject to certain adjustments based on working capital, transaction expenses, unpaid debt and certain litigation matters. For further information, please see Note 17(a)1(c) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the fourth quarter of 2017, we acquired KnowledgePrice.com, a Latvian company that specializes in digital insurance services and consulting. The total purchase price was approximately $6.8 million, out of which $4.1 million was paid at closing and the remainder was subject to earn-outs based on the revenues of KnowledgePrice.com following the closing. For further information, please see Note 1(c) to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report.

In the first quarter of 2018, we acquired Adaptik, a New Jersey company engaged in the development of software solutions for P&C insurers, including policy administration, rating, billing, customer management, task management and product design. The total purchase price was approximately $18.2 million in cash, subject to adjustment, and about $3.7 million was subject to earn out-based specific criteria and continued employment of founders.

In the third quarter of 2019, we acquired Cálculo, a leading vendor of insurance consulting and managed services, and a core solution to the Spanish market.Cálculo’s team of insurance system experts (one of the largest in Spain) and solid customer base are expected to help us to continue our global expansion by entering the large Iberian market. We paid approximately $5.8 million in the acquisition, subject to adjustment, and about $1.7 million was subject to earn out-based specific criteria and continued employment of founders.

In the first quarter of 2020, we acquired sum.cumo, a German-based technology provider that offers digital, consumer-centric solutions mainly to the insurance sector,for a purchase price of $22.9 million in cash. An additional$1.8 million was paid to sum.cumo’s senior executives as part of an existing agreement between sum.cumo and their former shareholders.. In addition, we issued 173,003 restricted shares units worth approximately $4.4 million to sum.cumo’s senior management, for which vesting is subject to performance criteria.Sum.cumo’s senior executives may be entitled to future payments of up to $2.2 million that are subject to both earn out-based and retention specific criteriaover the next four years.

 

Our principal capital expenditures during the last three years related mainly to the purchase of computer equipment and software for use by our subsidiaries.subsidiaries, as well as $6.9 million for construction of our new campus initiated in Bangalore, India in July 2019. Our capital expenditures totaled approximately $1.5$2.6 million in 2014, $2.82017, $1.9 million in 20152018 and $4.7$11.5 million in 2016.2019.

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B.Business Overview.

We areSapiens is a leading global provider of software solutions for the insurance industry, with a growing presence in the financial services sector.industry. Our extensive expertise in the insurance industry is reflected in our innovative software platforms, suites, solutions and services for providers of property & casualty/generalcasualty (P&C); reinsurance; life, pension & annuity (L&A); financial & compliance (F&C); workers’ compensation (WC); and financial markets. Our company offers a full digital suite that provides an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for carriers, agents, customers and assorted insurance (P&C),personnel, across multiple devices and life, annuities and pension (L&P) insurance. Ourtechnologies. Sapiens’ offerings enable our customers to effectively manage their core business functions including policy administration, claims management and billing.

Webilling – and they support insurers during their digital transformation journeys. Our portfolio also supply core record-keeping software solutions for retirement servicescovers underwriting, illustration and a complete offering for reinsurance providers. Additionally, we offer aelectronic application.


Sapiens supplies decision management platform that enables our customerssolutions tailored to a variety of financial services providers, so business users across verticals can quickly deploy business logic and comply with policies and regulations acrossthroughout their organizations and our digital suite facilitates an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for agents, customers and assorted insurance personnel.organizations.

 

Our solutions, whichplatforms possess modern, modular architecture and are digital-ready,digital-driven. They empower customers to respond to evolvingthe rapidly changing insurance market needs and frequent regulatory changes, while improving the efficiency of their core operations. These process enhancements increase revenuesrevenue and reduce costs.

2019 was a year of double-digit growth and acquisitions for Sapiens, while we also invested in building the foundation for further expansion in 2020 and beyond.

In February 2020, Sapiens acquired sum.cumo, a German-based technology provider that offers disruptive, digital, innovative and consumer-centric solutions mainly to the insurance sector. Sapiens aims to expand its footprint by offering Sapiens’ complete product and services portfolio in the DACH region (Germany, Switzerland and Austria), alongside sum.cumo’s offerings. sum.cumo’s experts in consulting, user experience, marketing and technology enable the region’s insurers to launch successful eCommerce environments.

As described below, in October of 2019, Sapiens acquired Cálculo, a leading vendor of insurance consulting and managed services, and a core solution to the Spanish market. Cálculo was established in 1966 and possesses over 150 insurance experts and 25 insurance company customers in Spain. Cálculo’s team of experts, one of the largest core insurance system teams in Spain, and impressive customer base that includes several blue-chip companies, will help Sapiens continue its global expansion by facilitating its entry into the large Iberian market.

In February 2019, Sapiens announced a complete rebranding that highlights our evolution to a unified global provider of insurance software solutions. The new brand identity marks Sapiens’ growth into a one-stop shop for insurance software solutions. Sapiens renamed its entire product portfolio and changed the look-and-feel and contents of all its marketing collateral, and launched a new website. Our master brand architecture and descriptive solution names quickly communicate our offerings’ main functions and frame Sapiens as a unified company (following the acquisitions described above). The updated look features our human-to-human (H2H) approach, reflecting the long-term partnerships we have with customers and employees, and the entirely new marketing communications collateral we developed.

In February 2018, Sapiens acquired Adaptik, a Pennsylvania-based firm that offers P&C insurers policy administration and billing capabilities for commercial, personal, specialty and workers’ compensation lines of business. The acquisition was another step in Sapiens’ journey to offer the U.S. insurance market a modern, modular, fully integrated property & casualty insurance platform.

In February 2017, Sapiens acquired StoneRiver, a U.S. based company that offered a rich product portfolio comprised of claims, billing, rating, underwriting, illustration, reinsurance and F&C solutions for all major insurance business lines, across both P&C and L&A. StoneRiver’s comprehensive set of solutions complements Sapiens’ offerings and has helped Sapiens accelerate its growth in the U.S. market, as well as globally.

The acquisition of StoneRiver and then Adaptik created synergy with Sapiens’ strong capabilities and enable us to offer a truly modern, comprehensive property & casualty digital insurance platform to the U.S. market. Sapiens possesses an innovative P&C digital insurance platform that combines three powerful core components: Sapiens PolicyPro for Property & Casualty; Sapiens BillingPro for Property & Casualty; and Sapiens ClaimsPro for Property & Casualty, accompanied by Sapiens’ existing solutions for data and analytics, digital engagement and distribution, and the cloud.

In December 2017, Sapiens expanded its Digital capabilities through the acquisition of KnowledgePrice.com (KnowledgePrice), a technology specialist with expertise in digital insurance services and consulting. Privately-held KnowledgePrice employed digital insurance technology experts and supplied services to leading insurance providers in the UK and Europe. KnowledgePrice personnel joined the Sapiens Digital division and now staff a Sapiens center for excellence for digital engagement services.


Sapiens’ expanded Digital division, which focuses on enabling our customers to deliver on the future of user and customer expectations, creates innovative offerings and provides full support during customers’ digital journeys.

Sapiens’ enhanced managed services offerings and cloud deployment have been adopted by several major customers and are expected to continue growing in the coming years. By allowing Sapiens to manage a substantial part of their ongoing IT operations, customers can focus on their core insurance competency and business.

 

Software Solutions

 

Our software solutions portfolio is comprised of:

·Life, Pension, Annuity and Retirement Solutions – comprehensive software solutions for the management of a diversified range of products for life, pension, annuity and retirement. Our portfolio includes Sapiens ALIS, Sapiens INSIGHT, Sapiens Retirement and Sapiens Closed Books.
·Property and Casualty/General Insurance Solutions& Casualty– a comprehensive software platform, suite ofand solutions supporting a broad range of business lines, including personal, commercial and specialty lines, as well as reinsurance and workers’ compensation (see below).

Our portfolio includes Sapiens Platform for Property & Casualty (which is comprised of core, data and digital solutions) and two core suites: Sapiens CoreSuite for Property & Casualty (for North America) and Sapiens IDITSuite for Property & Casualty (for EMEA and APAC). The core suites are offered as a full suite, or insurers can choose standalone components: policy, billing and claims. Sapiens CoreSuite is based on technology acquired from Adaptik and StoneRiver, while the Sapiens IDITSuite technology evolved from our previous Sapiens IDIT offering. Smaller, more agile insurance providers can choose Sapiens Stingray for Property & Casualty in North America and e-Tica in Iberia.

Life, Pension & Annuitiesa solutioncomprehensive software platform, suite and complementary solutions for the management of reinsurance contracts.a diversified range of products for life, pension & annuities. Our portfolio includes the Sapiens IDITPlatform for Life, Pension & Annuities; Sapiens CoreSuite for Life, Pension & Annuities; Sapiens UnderwritingPro for Life & Annuities; Sapiens ApplicationPro for Life & Annuities; Sapiens IllustrationPro for Life & Annuities; and Sapiens Reinsurance.ConsolidationMaster for Life & Pension.

·DigitalSapiens DECISIONDigitalSuite offers an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for insurance customers, agents, brokers, risk managers, customer groups and third-party service providers. The suite is pre-integrated with Sapiens’ core suites and other industry-leading core systems. Comprised of innovative digital solutions and content libraries to facilitate diverse customer journeys, DigitalSuite includes Sapiens AgentConnect and Sapiens CustomerConnect, our portal solutions. As part of our digital offering, Sapiens offers the following data products: Sapiens Intelligence, an analytics platform that drives analytics adoption across the organization with compelling, insightful dashboards and apps; Sapiens IntelligencePro, a comprehensive BI solution with pre-configured reports, dashboards and scorecards; and Sapiens Advanced Analytics, which uses AI and Machine Learning to generate actionable insights based on different models across the insurance value chain.

Reinsurance –complete reinsurance software solutions for full financial control and auditing support. Our portfolio includes: Sapiens ReinsuranceMaster, Sapiens ReinsurancePro and Sapiens Reinsurance GO.

Workers’ Compensation –Sapiens workers’ compensation offerings handle comprehensive policy/billing and claims needs. Our solution portfolio includes Sapiens Platform for Workers’ Compensation, Sapiens CoreSuite for Workers’ Compensation, Sapiens PolicyPro for Workers’ Compensation and Sapiens ClaimsPro for Workers’ Compensation. Providers looking to preserve greater agility may select Sapiens GO for Workers’ Compensation, which is comprised of Sapiens PolicyGo for Workers’ Compensation, Sapiens ClaimsGo for Workers’ Compensation and Sapiens Connect for Workers’ Compensation.

Financial & Compliance– we offer financial & compliance solutions comprised of both annual statement and insurance accounting software. This software includes Sapiens FinancialPro, Sapiens Financial GO, Sapiens StatementPro, Sapiens CheckPro and Sapiens Reporting Tools.

Decision Management Sapiens Decision is an enterprise-scale platform that enables institutions and “citizen developers” across verticals to centrally author, store and manage all organizational business logic. Organizations of all types – including banks, mortgage institutions and insurers – use it to track, verify and ensure that every decision is based on the most up-to-date rules and policies. Our Decision management products are offered across verticals (including commercial banking, investment banking, mortgage banking, insurance – for both P&C and life, government, etc.).

·Sapiens Digital Suite–a digital transformation solution comprised of five integral offerings: advanced analytics, a portal for consumers and agents, personalized video capabilities, a customer engagement platform and cloud offerings and services. Together they offer an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for agents, customers and assorted insurance personnel.
·Technology-Based Solutions– tailor-made solutions (unrelated to the insurance or financial services market) based on our Sapiens eMerge platform, which provides end-to-end, modular business solutions, ensuring rapid time to market.

Services

 

Our services modernize and automate processes for insurance providers and financial institutions around the globe, helping to create greater organizational efficiencies, reduce costs and provide a better end user experience. They can be divided into three main categories:program delivery,business services andmanaged services (our various methodologies are applied across the categories).

 

Our services include:Program delivery includes:

·Project delivery and implementation
·Business and technical consulting related to our products
·Project and program management
·
Training
Testing
Migration
Implementation and integration

Business services are comprised of:

·Business transformation – planning and strategy, business process evaluation, training and change management
Digital transformation – business model and processes transformation, and data management consolidation, as well as data migration
User acceptance testing (UAT)
·Migration
·Maintenance
·Ongoing support
·Hosting and managed services
·Product upgrades
·Business transformation servicesSystem integration

 

Managed services include:

 19Hosting services
 
Application and system management
Ongoing production support

Sapiens has partnered with Microsoft Azure to offer its policy administration systems and accompanying services over private and public (single tenant) clouds. The company maintains an agnostic approach that also utilizes Amazon Web Services (AWS). Sapiens’ cloud deployment includes full infrastructure for operations, plus the option of choosing cloud-related managed services delivered by Sapiens’ experienced professional services team.

 

Methodologies:

Sapiens offers various delivery methodologies, including Waterfall and Agile (and a combination of the two). We also provide delivery tools and delivery performance indicators.

 

Built on a solid foundation of insurance domain expertise, proven technology and a history of successful deployments, our organization assists clients in identifying and eliminating IT barriers to achieve business objectives.

 

For more information about our software solutions and services, please see “Sapiens’ Software Solutions” and “Sapiens’ Global Services” below in this section.

Our Marketplace and its Needs

 

Our Target Markets

 

We operate in a large market undergoing significant transformation. According to athe Gartner report, “Forecast: Enterprise IT Spending for the Insurance Market, Worldwide, 2017-2023, 3Q19 Update” (a market statistics research report published by Celent,Gartner, a research and consulting firm, (IT Spending in Insurance, a Global Perspective, 2016,written by Jamie Macregor, Juan Mazzini, Karen MonksRajesh Narayan and KyongSun Kong,Rika Narisawa that was published on April 27, 2016)November 6, 2019, and which we refer to herein as the “Gartner report”), Gartner forecasted global insurance market IT spending by insurance companies is expected to grow from $184.9by 4.4% in 2019 and to reach $225 billion in 2016U.S. dollars. This industry is predicted to $195.5reach nearly $265 billion by 2023, growing at a 4.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2018 through 2023. This growth will be driven by an increase in 2017IT services spending and $208 billion in 2018. In particular,software spending at CAGRs of 5.3% and 10%, respectively, according to the Gartner Report.

Gartner forecasts total insurance IT spending on externalsoftware in 2020 will be $53 billion (software includes application software [analytics and business intelligence, back office/ERP and supply chain, front office/CRM, collaboration}; infrastructure software {application development and middleware, information management, storage management software, and IT services, which was expected to total approximately $81 billion in 2016, is expected to increase to $87 billion by 2017, reflecting a 7.3% growth rate.system and network management}; and vertical/industry-specific applications).

 

We believeSapiens believes that our current total addressable market for core insurance software solutions and the accompanied point solutions is approximately $30$40 billion, which we expect towill grow as a result of insurance carriers’ and financial institutions’ need to spend onaddress, via modern software solutions from external providers, to address the operational challenges presented by the inefficiency of their legacy core systems. Legacy systems possessreflect technical and functional limitations that adversely impact carriers’ ability to swiftly launch new, innovative products that satisfy their customers’ changing needs and preferences.

By slowing down carriers’ business and geographic expansion, legacy systems create operational inefficiencies that are translated intoresult in increased business risk and financial costs. They are also a barrier for the adoption of digital capabilities, due to their inability to communicate and interact with innovative digital solutions. Today’s insurance providers are looking for more than just the traditional core capabilities. They seek insurance platforms with a wider range of capabilities, including full digitalization.

 

OurSapiens’ customers are operating in a dynamic and changingconstantly evolving regulatory environment. OftenSometimes their legacy systems simply do not support new regulatory requirements, and put carrierswhich puts insurance providers at risk of costly non-compliance. We believe these challenges will accelerate the shift from spending on legacy systems to new vendor software solutions, and the shift from reliance on in-house development to external vendors.

There is also a strong trend of shifting attention to the end-customer experience and activities, with a focus on digital operations. Many insurers are currently unable to provide the type of quality digital experience that their customers are already enjoying across most other verticals and customer satisfaction is only one of the many recognized benefits of going digital. This can only be supported via increased usage of data for decision-making, risk analysis, customer evaluation and rating, which requires a streamlined data flow and easy access to information from multiple sources.


Life, Pension, AnnuityWe believe these challenges will accelerate the shift from spending on legacy systems to new vendor software solutions. It is also Sapiens’ view that these challenges are too difficult to overcome via in-house systems and Retirement Markets

Life, pension, annuity and retirement providers offer their customers a wide rangethe majority of products for long-term savings, protection, pension and insurance. They assist policyholders with financial planning through life insurance, retirement, pension, medical and investment products. Their products can be classified into several areas, primarily investment and savings, risk and protection, pension and health-related products. These products can be targetedinsurers will turn to individuals,external software vendors, such as well as group- and employer-related products. Some insurance and financial services providers also offer retirement services products, particularly management of, and recordkeeping for, defined contribution retirement plans.Sapiens.

Retirement services offer employer-related, defined contribution plans that are the primary and fastest-growing retirement savings vehicles in the U.S., including nearly one-third of overall retirement assets. Financial services companies including insurance companies, mutual funds, banks and third-party administrators (TPAs) provide recordkeeping services for employer-related plans. Recordkeeping service providers commonly use legacy or in-house software solutions to manage their books.

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Property & Casualty/General InsuranceCasualty Market

 

Property and& casualty insurance – also known as non-life insurance, or general insurance (GI) – protects policyholders against a range of losses on items of value. P&C insurance includes thepersonal segment, which is insurance coverage for individuals, with products such as motor, home, personal property and travel; thecommercial segment, covering aspects of commercial activity, such as commercial property, car fleets and professional liability; andspecialty lines, covering unique domains, such as marine, art and credit insurance. This market also includes workers’ compensation for market carriers, administrators and state funds.

During the past few years, the P&C market has been characterized by a fast rate of digital adoption. New business and technology models are adopted rapidly, to launch innovative business offerings. This requires advanced software solutions, both on the core layer, which needs to be flexible and open, and with the variety of digital tools addressing customer experience needs.

 

Life, Pension & Annuity Markets

Life, pension & annuity providers offer their customers a wide range of products for long-term savings, protection, pension and insurance. They assist policyholders with financial planning through life insurance, medical and investment products. Their products can be classified into several areas, primarily investment and savings, risk and protection, pension and health-related products. These products can be targeted to individuals, as well as group- and employee-benefit types of products.

The products in this field are long-term in nature. When insurance providers consider purchasing new platforms from Sapiens, the decision is typically slower and involves multiple decision-makers throughout the organization.

Digital Market

Insurance carriers risk losing their customers if they do not provide the type of digital experience that all of us have come to expect from the retailers and service providers we interact with daily. Additionally, agents, brokers and other channel and service providers require a powerful digital ecosystem to capably carry out their crucial tasks.

It is not enough to simply provide a portal to offer today’s consumers the online presence they demand, or to work with an isolated analytics system to parse data. A big step up is needed via an all-encompassing digital approach featuring integrated components functioning at their highest levels and complementing each other.

Reinsurance Market

Reinsurance is insurance that is purchased by an insurance company (“ceded reinsurance”)(ceded reinsurance) from another insurance company (“assumed reinsurance”)(assumed reinsurance) as a means of risk management. The reinsurer and the insurer enter into a reinsurance agreement, (referred to as “contract” or “treaty”), which details the conditions upon which the reinsurer would pay the insurer’s losses. The reinsurer is paid a reinsurance premium by the insurer and the insurer issues insurance policies to its own policyholders. The insurer must maintain an accurate system of records to track its reinsurance contracts and treaties, to avoid claims leakage.

 


Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation is one of the largest lines of business in the P&C industry in North America. But future profitability is getting harder to maintain, with medical and indemnity costs per lost time claim increasing at rates greater than inflation. Insurance organizations require technology solutions that can adapt quickly to business and market conditions, offering high levels of accuracy and efficiency.

Financial Services& Compliance Market

Financial professionals face overwhelming challenges as they struggle to satisfy ever-changing regulatory requirements, while meeting the demands of managerial reporting. The move towards globalization has introduced new currencies, and CEOs need more performance data for strategic decision-making. Organizations require one partner to optimize efficiencies with solutions that can be implemented quickly.

Decision Management Market

 

Increasing competition, regulatory burden, customer experience expectations and the proliferation of digital and product innovation requirements are necessitatinghave necessitated a shift in thinking and approach among organizations across the financial services market.verticals. By replacing conventional policy and process management with the growing discipline known as “decision management,” financial institutions are bridging the gap between business and IT, by enabling business users to rapidly frame requirements in formal business models that can be easily understood by all stakeholders.

 

The decision management processes in financial services affectsaffect overall corporate performance, including its impact on customers and competitors. Decision management systems are a key performance component of every financial services organization, as they help the organization define, avoid and hedge financial risk.

 

Needs of our Target Markets

 

Large insurance and financial organizations must constantly invest in their IT systems to respond to key market drivers.

They require the ability to:

 

·Satisfy today’s sophisticated, tech-savvy and demanding customersend-customers – who expectdemand the type of instant, personalized service they enjoy via Facebookfrom Netflix or Amazon – via digitalization and innovative initiatives.initiatives, providing a stronger customer experience and engagement.

·Use advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, to facilitate, improve and automate traditional insurance processes.
Provide innovative business models, based on technology capabilities and digital operation (such as a portal, aportals, web-based acquisition process,processes, advanced analytics, customer engagement platforms and the usage of data sources such as including wearables, the Internet of Things (IoT) and robo-advice.
·
Respond to complex and evolving regulatory standards such as(past and current standards include Solvency II, IFRS 17, Dodd-Frank legislation, DGPR,GDPR, etc.)
·
Support internal customers’ growth and operations. This includes reducing the time to market of new products, expanding into new geographies, reducing costs and streamlining operations.
Rapidly launch new products and propositions to the market, within a short timeframe and using existing, pre-defined capabilities.

 

Specific Needs of the Insurance and Retirement Services MarketsMarket

The insurance market is a large, complex and highly regulated environment. Insurance carriers operate in a super-competitive and quickly evolving market,ecosystem, which necessitates differentiating their value propositions. Additionally, carriersproviders operate under a rigid regulatory regime that demands fast compliance. The insurance market is going through a rapid evolution process, driven by new technologies, complex ecosystems, digital capabilities and new business models, all enabled by new technologies.

 


To efficiently manage their operations, insurance carriers require IT platforms that enable rapid introduction of changes via configurable, user-driven activities, integration with internal and external systems, control and auditing of internal employees’ work, support for omni-channel distribution and clear visibility into the carrier’s business operations, through streamlining and intelligent usage of data.

 

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To compete in the rapidly changing environment, and win the competition for end customers, insurance carriers require a coherent digital proposition, allowing them to better interact with their customers in a digital and omni-channel manner. They are increasingly using robotics, predictive analytics, AI and machine learning to automate processes and obtain stronger business insights. The cloud can also be utilized for improved operations and scale.

 

Insurance carriers are experiencing substantial operational challenges due to the inefficiency of their legacy policy administration systems and their lack of digitalization. These legacy systems, which include both technical and functional limitations, acutely impact carriers’ ability to cope with growing challenges, such as the need for innovation, the shift of power to the consumer, and the dynamic and constantly changing regulatory environment.

 

We believe the following are key considerations for insurance carriers when they think aboutthat are considering upgrading their legacy systems:

 

Dynamic business environment with constantly changing regulations – insurance carriers still use outdated legacy systems that are costly and time-consuming to modify or upgrade. This has prevented them from innovating and growing. Carriers who use legacy systems may find it difficult to modify existing products, introduce new products and reach untapped market segments. Frequently changing global regulatory requirements necessitate specialized data and business rules, which makes change implementation particularly challenging.

·            Dynamic business environment with constantly changing regulationsMany insurance carriers still use outdated legacy systems that are costly and time-consuming to modify or upgrade. This has prevented insurance carriers from innovating and growing. Carriers who use legacy systems may find that it is difficult for them to modify existing products, introduce new products and reach untapped market segments. Varied and frequently changing global regulatory requirements require specialized data and business rules, which makes change implementation particularly challenging.

Change in end-consumers’ behavior and the shift of power to consumers – insurance carriers must rapidly adapt to the shifting needs and behaviors of consumers, including the types and terms of insurance products offered, and how consumers access information. Insurance providers require systems with integration capability and support for multi-channel distribution, so they can reach their clients’ customers and partners using multiple methods, including social media, across devices.

A need to improve operational efficiency and reduce total cost of ownership– Sapiens believes that a significant percentage of insurance carriers are still using inefficient and outdated processes that do not automate operations and workflows, and thus do not offer efficient process management. Many of these processes likely have high error rates. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance of legacy systems is expensive and technically difficult. A specialized IT staff with the requisite skills and experience needed to maintain these systems is difficult to find and then eventually replace. Insurers seek systems that are modern, digital, automated, efficient and easy to maintain, and can lower costs over the long term.

Increasing global and multi-national operation – a rising number of insurers are accelerating their growth initiatives through global acquisitions. These insurers seek a single provider who can deliver solutions that will be used across markets, combining the support of local regulatory requirements and specific customer needs, while driving a generic corporate business approach and strategy across the globe, reducing costs and overhead.

Exploring new business models and innovative propositions – carriers are increasingly looking to: join innovative ecosystems; adopt and use new technologies, and partner with insurtechs; bring modern and differentiating propositions to the market; reduce cost; enhance and speed customer engagement; and improve their business parameters and KPIs.
Going digital – digitalization holds significant potential for insurers, but only if they manage to efficiently digitalize their operations, support multi-channel distribution and ensure that agents and customers are able to access real-time, accurate data at any time and from anywhere – across devices.

 

·            Change in end-consumers’ behavior and the shift of power to consumers Insurance carriers must adapt rapidly to the shifting needs and behaviors of consumers, including the types and terms of insurance products offered, and how consumers access information. Insurance carriers require systems with integration capability and support for multi-channel distribution, so they can reach their clients’ customers and partners using multiple methods, including social media, across devices.

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·            A need to improve operational efficiency and reduce total cost of ownershipWe believe that a majority of insurance carriers are still using inefficient and outdated processes that do not automate operations and workflows, and thus don’t offer efficient process management. Many of these processes may have high error rates. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance of legacy systems is expensive and technically difficult. A specialized IT staff with the requisite skills and experience needed to maintain these systems is difficult to find or replace. Insurers seek systems that are modern, digital, automated, efficient and easy to maintain, and can lower costs over the long term.

·            Increasing global and multi-national operation – A rising number of insurers are accelerating their growth initiatives through global acquisitions. These insurers seek sole providers who can deliver solutions that will be used across markets, combining the support of local regulatory requirements and specific customer needs, while driving a generic corporate business approach and strategy across the globe, reducing costs and overhead.

·            Going digital Digitalization holds significant potential for financial services institutions and insurers, but only if they manage to efficiently digitalize their operations, support multi-channel distribution and ensure that agents and customers are able to access real-time, accurate data at any time and from anywhere – including tablets and other mobile devices.

Business Decision Management Market Needs

 

Many large organizations, particularly in the financial services market, must comply with complex regulations. They operate in highly competitive markets that require quick responses. Business logic drives most of the financial services transactions and is the backbone of an organization’s policies and strategies, and its ability to successfully operate.

 

To operate efficiently,achieve efficiency, business owners must assume ownership of the business logic and possess the ability to define and modify it;it, standardize it;it and reuse it across the organization. Today, businessBusiness logic is defined today by business owners and compliance officers, but IT departments translate the requirements into code. This process raises several key challenges: the result does not always accurately reflect the business requirements; the new requirements might conflict with, or override, previous requirements; and the entire process is not fully audited. These gaps often create an inefficient and risk-exposed organization.

 

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Sapiens’ Software Solutions

 

Overview

 

We areSapiens is a leading global provider of software solutions for the insurance industry with a growing presence in the financial services sector.industry. By enabling our insurance and financial services customers to digitize their business and be more agile in the face of new and changing business environments, we help them take advantage of powerful current trends – such as the Internet of Things, social media, ride sharing, customer engagement, robo-advice,artificial intelligence, drones, machine learning, virtual assistants, etc. – while simultaneously reducing IT costs.

 

We offer our insurance customers a range of packaged software solutions that are:

·Digital– revealing their history and anticipating their future needs, while facilitating easy engagement across preferred interaction channels and multiple devices.
Data-driven– based on set of data analysis tools, from data-warehouse and reporting, through business intelligence and analytics, to predictive and advanced analytics – so our customers can become a data-driven operation.
Highly automated – by using various technologies, from decision to robotics, we improve efficiency and offer agile customer engagement.
Comprehensive and function-richfunctionally-rich, supporting generic – support for insurance standards, regulations and processes, by providing field-proven functionality and best practices.
·
Customizable & configurableto easily matchmatches our customers’ specific business requirements. Our flexible architecture and configurable structure allowsallow quick functionality augmentation that permits our platform to be used across different markets, unique business requirements and regulatory regimes, utilizingregimes. We utilize our knowledge and extensive insurance best practices.practices and feature business-led configuration.

·Service-orientedOpen architecture (SOA) based,and insurtech ecosystemto provide– provides easy integration to any external application under any technology, allowing streamlined connectivity to all satellite applications and enhancingapplications. This enhances the digital experience and omni-channel distribution, (whilewhile maintaining total platform independence and system reliability).reliability. Easy interaction with various insurtech companies providing point-solutions that can be consumed by our platforms is enabled.
·Digital, revealing their history and anticipating their future needs, while facilitating easy communication across preferred interaction channels and devices.
·Component-based and scalableallowing– allows our customers to deploy theplatforms and solutions in a phased and modular approach, reducing risk and harm to the business, while supporting the growth plans and cost efficiency of the organization.

 


Our packaged software solutions enable:

·Rapid deployment of new insurance products via configurable software, which creates a competitive advantage in all of the insurance markets we serve.
·
Improvement of operational efficiency and reduction of risk by providing full insurance process automation, with configurable workflows, audit and control, streamlined insurance practices, and simple integration and maintenance.
·
Reduction of overhead for ITmaintenance through easy-to-integrate solutions with flexible and modern architecture, resulting in lower costs for ongoing maintenance, modifications, additions and integration.
·
Enhanced omni-channel distribution and focus on the customersthroughevent-driven– event-driven architecture, a proactive client management approach, rapid access to all levels of data, and a holistic view of clients and distributors.
·
VariousCloud-first as a preferred deployment models,model from– with the flexibility to also provide an on-premise deployment approach, to cloud and hosted solutions.deployment.
·
Support offor digitalization, whichholds massive potential for insurers –insurers and financial services institutions if theywho manage to efficiently digitalize their operations, support omni-channel distribution and ensure that agents and customers are able to access real-time, accurate data at any time and from anywhere – including tablets and mobile devices.devices – will unlock massive potential.
Managed services– offering our customers access to a long-term engagement by providing comprehensive support for their daily IT operations, while allowing them to focus on their business KPIs.

 

Sapiens Property & Casualty Solutions

Sapiens Platform for Property & Casualty

The Sapiens Platform for Property & Casualty is an end-to-end, cloud-based platform with advanced digital capabilities. It can be implemented as a pre-integrated platform, or as standalone modules. The platform addresses all P&C carrier needs across all lines of business and distribution channels, offering a wealth of digital features. It is comprised of core (policy, billing and claims), data (advanced analytics) and digital (a full suite) solutions.

Sapiens offers two core suites, based on region:

Sapiens CoreSuite for Property & Casualty (North America)

Sapiens CoreSuite for Property & Casualty is comprised of three fully integrated, core components that can also be deployed stand-alone: Sapiens PolicyPro, Sapiens BillingPro and Sapiens ClaimsPro.

CoreSuite is pre-integrated with additional components that can be selected, including business intelligence, reinsurance and portal solutions (customer and agent), as well as various interfaces.

This modular, automated, highly customizable suite offers a single platform for personal, commercial and specialty lines of business (LoBs). This increases organizational efficiency by reducing manual effort, generates competitive advantages and saves costs.

Sapiens IDITSuite for Property & Casualty (EMEA & APAC)

The Sapiens IDITSuite for Property & Casualty is a component-based, standalone software solution suite that offers policy, billing and claims and forms the core of the Sapiens Platform for Property & Casualty. IDITSuite supports all end-to-end core operations and processes for the non-life P&C market from inception, to renewal and claims. This pre-integrated, fully digital suite offers customer and agent portals, business intelligence and more. IDITSuite enables insurers to expand their offerings by testing new lines of business, products and services using our flexible product factory.


The suite is modular and can integrate with your ecosystem’s components. Sapiens IDITSuite for Property & Casualty includes multiple lines of business in one policy for multiple insured objects and assets. It can support corporate agreements and master policy structures. IDITSuite is designed with growth and change in mind, with extensive multi-company, multi-branding, multi-currency and multi-lingual capabilities. The IDITSuite management system is built on open technology and can be used across devices.

Sapiens Policy Administration Solutions

The Sapiens’ policy solutions for property & casualty come pre-integrated with the core system. They are easily integrated with existing and external systems and applications. The solutions manage the end-to-end policy administration lifecycle of an insurance contract, from initial quote, through rating and policy issuance. They also feature a complete range of policy issuance and amendment capabilities. Agents, underwriters and customers use the solutions to quote, issue and administer policies. The offerings provide comprehensive policy lifecycle support for all P&C lines of business.

Sapiens Billing Solutions

The Sapiens’ billing solution for P&C enables carriers, MGAs and brokers to manage the full lifecycle of premium services, taxes and fees, along with commission billing, collection and disbursements. P&C carriers can integrate with third-party systems and data repositories, enjoy best-in-class usability and automate processes throughout the billing lifecycle.

Sapiens Claims Solutions

Sapiens’ claims solutions for property & casualty provide simplified management and automated control of claims management handling and the settlement process. They offer intelligent, rules-driven workflow with effective claim assignment, ensuring faster cycle times, as well as rules-driven automatic claims payment.

Sapiens Stingray for Property & Casualty

Sapiens Stingray for Property & Casualty is a complete solution with quick implementation for all P&C insurance lines, providing a complete core processing solution right out of the box. Its modular software components are designed with flexibility in mind. This solution is customizable and well-suited for tiers 4-5.

e-Tica Solution for Property & Casualty (Spain)

The e-Tica solution for Property & Casualty empowers insurance companies with a product engine, as well as policy, billing, claims and reinsurance capabilities. A fourth-generation solution, e-Tica supports all core operations and processes for the P&C market, and supports bank assurance, brokers and direct insurance.

The suite is modular, flexible and customizable through module workshops. Additionally, main features include connectivity (simple integration with other applications), robustness (based on an infrastructure of leading, consolidated tools in the market), cloud-based (platform is deployed today in the cloud and on premise), web technology (developed with JEE technology and open standards), easy evolution (scalable technology and deployment in multiple configurations) and accessibility (from any place, any time).

e-Tica ecosystem is being enhanced through new features in micro services technology, like group policy management and injury agreements.

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P&C Digital Offerings

The Sapiens DigitalSuite offers an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for P&C customers, agents, brokers, customer groups and third-party service providers. The suite is pre-integrated with Sapiens’ P&C core and is comprised of digital engagement and digital enablement components. The suite is cloud-based.

Sapiens Life, Pension & Annuity Solutions

 

Sapiens ALISPlatform for Life, Pension & Annuities

The Sapiens Platform for Life, Pension & Annuities is a modern, digital insurance platform that includes core, data and digital solutions. With the ability to deploy its offerings as a complete platform, or as standalone modules, Sapiens can address life providers’ needs across all their lines of business and distribution channels. Our mature platform is cloud and API-based, and features a strong core and advanced analytics, as well as data enablement and full digital engagement capabilities.

Sapiens CoreSuite for Life, Pension & Annuities

 

Sapiens ALISCoreSuite for Life, Pension & Annuities is designed to provide excellence in the administration of insurance business, facilitate digital transformation and fast time-to-value for digital strategies, and create greater efficiency via legacy consolidation. It offers insurers:

A single platform for individual and group business

Transformation, enablement and execution for digital strategies

Greater efficiency via improved automation, user experience and system consolidation

Single Platform

The Sapiens CoreSuite software suite supports the end-to-end administration of group and individual life, annuities, pension and investment business ‒ in a comprehensive software solutionsingle system. The suite offers a 360-degree view of the customer from their policy administration system, across all distribution channels and communication streams.

Existing System Consolidation

Many insurers still use systems developed decades ago that cannot support today’s regulatory changes, digital marketplace and demanding customers. Too many manual processes can lead to errors that impact customer experience. Our unique conversion approach reduces the risks involved in migrating from existing legacy systems.

Sapiens UnderwritingPro for individual and group insurance products. It provides comprehensive support for the complete policy lifecycle of all life insurance products from quotation and illustrations; to underwriting, billing and servicing; through claims management and exit processing.Life, Pension & Annuities

 

Sapiens ALIS supports a wide range of insurance product lines across multiple territories, including:

·Individual and group life, investment and savings
·Individual and group protection, and risk products
·Individual and group pension
·Annuity products
·Hybrid products

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Sapiens ALISUnderwritingPro for Life, Pension & Annuities is a modular systemweb-based solution for automated underwriting and new business case management that includes all the functional components necessaryis part of Sapiens’ core suite. It speeds new business processes for insurers to manageinsurance carriers and their business. Insurance carriers can manage their entire core businesschannels, offering an intuitive user interface with critical updates and task assignments provided on a single platformreal-time dashboard. Sapiens UnderwritingPro enables underwriters and integrate Sapiens ALIS with other systems for the completion of a specific activity or domain.

Sapiens ALIS integrates all of the following functions into one solution:

·Sales, quotation and illustration
·New business
·Underwriting
·Policy servicing
·Billing, collection and payment management
·Claims processing
·Agency and commission
·CRM and customer management
·Workflow and diary
·Compliance and calculation engine
·Insurance product manufacturing

On top of the functional modules, Sapiens ALIS provides a set of digital capabilitiescase managers to its customers, including an advanced analytics solution, a consumer and agent portal, personalized video capabilities and a customer engagement platform These capabilities increase customer touch-points and generate actionable insights. Sapiens has partnered with Microsoft Azure to offer its Sapiens ALIS policy administration system and accompanying services over private and public clouds. work on multiple cases simultaneously.

 

Sapiens Retirement Services

Leveraging assets we have built from our Sapiens ALIS offering, we have developed Sapiens Retirement, a modern, end-to-end, packaged software solution that manages record-keepingApplicationPro for defined-contribution recordkeeping providers.Life & Annuities

 

Sapiens Retirement Services PlatformApplicationPro for Life & Annuities is web-based insurance application software that provides carriers with the choice of a standalone eApplication system, or a more comprehensive solution that seamlessly integrates with Sapiens IllustrationPro for Life & Annuities and Sapiens UnderwritingPro for Life & Annuities. Sapiens ApplicationPro is robust electronic application software that helps carriers address critical business drivers, such as decreasing time-to-issue and reducing policy acquisition costs, all in an extremely intuitive and easy-to-use package.


Sapiens IllustrationPro for Life & Annuities

Sapiens IllustrationPro for Life & Annuities is a next-generation, defined contribution platform that enables recordkeeperspoint-of-sale solution, offering responsive product illustrations from any location in an electronic environment, with internet and desktop support. ACORD®-compliant, it offers straight-through processing, from point-of-sale to secureapplication e-submission, supported by a needs analysis suite. IllustrationPro explains complex products in a compelling way. Its powerful calculation engines handle the most complex product illustrations, including the appropriate historical and retain profitable plans by offering the efficiency, flexibility and end-to-end governance required for success in today’s market. Designed by leading industry experts, Sapiens Retirement Services supports a wide range of plan types – 401(k), 403(b) and 457 – from micro to mega plans, and the associated plan variations, including ERISA, Non-ERISA, Safe Harbor, Taft Hartley and others.hypothetical references. 

 

Sapiens Closed BooksConsolidationMaster for Life & Pension

 

Sapiens Closed BooksConsolidationMaster is a purpose-built, end-to-end, legacy, portfolio-focused system with a unique migration methodology that deals with “dirty” data. The solution for lifehas over 500 product templates capable of supporting the compliant administration of legacy products in any language and pension insurance companies that enables them to efficiently and more effectively administer policies and claims relating to their legacy portfolio and closed books business (products that are no longer open to new business, but must still be administered).

An industry leading and proven system, Sapiens Closed Books wasregulatory jurisdiction. ConsolidationMaster is designed to deliver solutions to legacy portfolio challenges, while significantly cuttingcut the costs that are commonly associated with legacy platforms. Sapiens Closed Books provides a full, end-to-end legacy portfolio-focused system that is capable of dealing with missing data, old legislation and a wide range of product types.

 

The Sapiens Closed Books model ensures that benefits are realized in a controlled and low risk manner, via best practices and proven industry experience.

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Sapiens INSIGHTDigital Transformation

 

Sapiens INSIGHT is offered uniquely in Israel, enabling life and pension insurance providers to handle a wide range of activities and regulations that are uniqueCoreSuite features full pre-integration to the Israeli market.Sapiens DigitalSuite and digital capabilities have been enhanced via adaptors. This facilitates digital transformation and fast time-to-value for digital strategies. It enables life carriers to become engaged, agile organizations with increased sales opportunities. By integrating CoreSuite with our advanced analytics solution and data warehouse, we can quickly generate actionable insights, self-service business intelligence and data discovery capabilities, across all mobile devices (and in the cloud).

   

Sapiens Property & Casualty/General Insurance SolutionsDigital Offerings

Sapiens DigitalSuite offers an end-to-end, holistic and seamless digital experience for customers, agents, brokers, risk managers, customer groups and third-party service providers. The suite is pre-integrated with Sapiens’ core solutions, and other industry-leading core systems, and can be easily integrated with existing systems. Our DigitalSuite is comprised of innovative digital solutions and content libraries to facilitate diverse customer journeys, including our rich portal content: Sapiens AgentConnect and Sapiens CustomerConnect.

Sapiens DigitalSuite was designed to enable our carrier customers to deliver on the future of user and customer expectations. DigitalSuite is an offering that can react to market changes, support flexible interaction with dynamic APIs and offer a modern user experience. Our DigitalSuite features component-based architecture, built on modern technologies and customer-centric design. 

As part of our digital offering, Sapiens offers our data products, which include: Sapiens Intelligence, an analytics platform that drives analytics adoption across the organization with compelling, insightful dashboards and apps; and Sapiens Advanced Analytics, using AI and machine learning, generates actionable insights based on different models across the insurance value chain. All digital offerings are entirely supported in the cloud.

Sapiens IDITDigital API Layer

This highly scalable layer facilitates an open-communication, API-based platform that enables carriers to interact with insurtech companies, ecosystem technology providers and business partners. By enabling seamless interaction with any service under any technology, Sapiens’ open architecture ensures that providers will easily choose the building blocks they need. They’ll be able to seamlessly integrate all elements within their insurance ecosystem, to succeed today and prepare for the future.

Sapiens Digital Studio

Sapiens DigitalStudio – which features journey builders, journey analytics (available Q4 2020), an API composition engine and deployment management capabilities – enables business users to create and maintain digital journeys. This component empowers insurers with agility and fast time to market, based on its “one click deploy” functionality. Insurers can easily define new APIs on the fly, with full versioning capabilities and an extendable UI components library.


Sapiens PartnerHub

 

Sapiens IDIT is a component-based software solution, addressingglobal organization with over three decades of extensive experience in insurance innovation and technology. We seek out and identify the specific needsmost relevant, advanced and innovative technology solutions for the insurance market. We connect third-party technology and insurtech solutions to our Sapiens PartnerHub, from where we make their offerings available to insurers for their own use, and for the use of general insurance carriers for traditional insurance, direct insurance, bancassurance and brokers markets, primarily in EMEA and Asia-Pacific.

It supports a broad range of general, personal and commercial lines of business, including:

·Personal lines– motor, personal property and homeowner, yacht, travel, medical insurance, liability, professional indemnity, etc.
·Commercial lines – fleet insurance, marine, cargo, engineering, real estate and commercial building, small and large commercial risks, etc.
·Specialty lines – agriculture, credit insurance, art insurance, etc.

Sapiens IDIT integrates multiple front office and back office processes, including insurance product design, the quote and buy process, policy administration, underwriting, call center, and remote users and partners, backed by fully secured internet-based capabilities.

By providing a full set of components, Sapiens IDIT supports insurance carriers’ core operations lifecycle from inception to renewal, and claims. This includes:

·Policy administration
·Claims management
·Billing and collection

Sapiens IDIT includes modular software components that can be customized to match specific insurance business requirements, while providing pre-configured functionality, including:

·Product factory
·Policy administration
·Billing and collection
·Claims management
·Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
·Intermediary management
·Workflow management
·Technical accounting
·Document management

On top of the functional modules, Sapiens IDIT provides a set of digital solutions and services to its customers, including an advanced analytics solution, a consumer and agent portal, personalized video capabilities and cloud offerings and services. These capabilities accelerate and automate responses, and reduce costs.

Sapiens Stingray

Sapiens Stingray is a modular browser-based, property and casualty policy administration solution for Policy (quoting, rating, issuance), Billing, Claims and Reinsurance administration. Sapiens Stingray includes complete customer and agent portals as well as an imaging system. Additionally, Stingray has statistical bureau reporting, DMV, Credit Card, General Ledger, Comparative Raters, CLUE, Business Intelligence, reporting and many other third party insurance related interfaces.their customers.

 

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Sapiens Reinsurance Solutions

 

Sapiens ReinsuranceReinsuranceMaster

 

Sapiens ReinsuranceReinsuranceMaster is a comprehensive business and accounting system, providing a superior solution designedfor all types of reinsurance contracts – treaty and facultative, and proportional and non-proportional. It enables insurers of all sizes to support themanage their entire range of reinsurance contracts and activities both ceded and assumed, for all lines of business. This software product provides both insurers and reinsurers superior handling of all reinsurance activities and in-depthbusiness, including rich accounting functionality on a single platform.and reporting capabilities.

Our reinsurance solution enables full and flexible control of reinsurance processes, with built-in automation of contracts, calculations and processes. By incorporating fully automated functions adapted conveniently for its customers’your business procedures, Sapiens Reinsurance provides flexible and fulltotal financial control of its customers’your reinsurance processes, including fullcomplete support for all auditing requirements and statutory compliance.

 

Sapiens Reinsurance offers end-to-end processing, including:

·Set-up and definition of the reinsurance program and comprehensive transaction processing for both cession and assumed contracts
·Automated production of all periodic statements, billings, bordereaux and accounts for all parties – reinsurers, brokers and ceding companies
·All-inclusive financial accounting module for current accounts management, P&L and balance sheet figures, and comprehensive support for general ledger accounts
·Complete audit trail and tracking capability of all activities, transactions and business processes

Sapiens InsightReinsurancePro

 

Sapiens Insight for P&CReinsurancePro is a softwarean efficient reinsurance administration system, supporting all types of reinsurance processing, regardless of volume, in one comprehensive and powerful reinsurance system. The system produces Schedule F automatically. Our solution used by carriers that works on IBM System z (mainframe)enables insurance companies to manage and System i platforms. Insight for P&C has been customizedautomate the underwriting and administration of reinsurance, including treaty and facultative, ceded, assumed and retroceded reinsurance.

Sapiens Reinsurance GO

Sapiens Reinsurance GO is designed to meet specificthe ceded reinsurance processing needs of property & casualty providers, from calculating premium and claim cessions, to producing the data required for Schedule F. Sapiens Reinsurance GO consolidates reinsurance accounting and cash management into one area. It automatically attaches and calculates ceded premium, commissions, losses, reserves and LAE, and allocates ceded transactions to reinsurers.

Sapiens Workers’ Compensation Offerings

 Sapiens Platform for Workers’ Compensation

Sapiens Platform for Workers’ Compensation includes the Sapiens CoreSuite for Workers’ Compensation, Sapiens Connect for Worker’s Connection (a portal solution) and Sapiens IntelligencePro (business intelligence).

Sapiens CoreSuite for Workers’ Compensation

Sapiens CoreSuite for Workers’ Compensation offers larger carriers, administrators and state funds the technology solutions that enable them to adapt quickly to business demands atand market conditions, offering high levels of accuracy and efficiency. The suite provides broad functionality throughout the insurer levelentire insurance lifecycle for workers’ compensation, via a core suite, as well as policy, claims and regulatory needs at the state level.intelligence modules that can be deployed individually, or as an integrated solution. This suite can be purchased as an integrated offering, or standalone components: Sapiens PolicyPro and Sapiens ClaimsPro.

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Sapiens GO for Workers’ Compensation

Sapiens GO for Workers’ Compensation was developed specifically for carriers, managing general agents (MGAs), self-insurance funds and third-party administrators. Sapiens GO can deliver a turnkey solution in just 120 days. With its streamlined user interface and advanced business features, the suite addresses critical objectives. This suite can be purchased as an integrated offering, or standalone components: Sapiens PolicyGO and Sapiens ClaimsGO for Workers’ Compensation.

Sapiens Digital SuiteFinancial & Compliance Solutions

 

Sapiens INTELLIGENCEFinancialPro

Sapiens INTELLIGENCE is a modular, highly innovative business intelligence solution specifically designed for the insurance market. Based on the advanced technology of SAP’s analytics platform, Sapiens INTELLIGENCE is an important component of the industry-leading Sapiens’ portfolio and is comprised of two integral elements: SmartStore and InfoMaster.

SmartStore is a centralized data hub for all insurance reporting and analytics. It gathers data from Sapiens’ operational repository and intelligently transforms it into an insurance-domain set of business logical models, specifically designed for complex and in-depth analytics.

InfoMaster is Sapiens’ set of analytical applications, offering a wide range of data visualization and analysis capabilities through reporting, dashboards and data discovery. Incorporating Sapiens’ best practices and three decades of leading experience, Sapiens InfoMaster helps insurers achieve greater efficiency and begin reaping the benefits of analytics immediately.

 

Sapiens PORTALFinancialPro is accounting software designed for insurers to meet their unique requirements for cash, statutory and GAAP reporting, well as unique allocation and consolidation needs. It handles multi-basis accounting and inter-company transactions, and facilitates the speed and accuracy of financial reporting. Sapiens insurance experts assist carriers in collecting and reporting information they need to expedite all regulatory processes.

 

Sapiens Financial GO

Sapiens Financial GO offers small- and mid-sized insurers a competitive edge in today’s marketplace, because it is developed and supported by highly experienced insurance experts. The Sapiens PORTALsolution is pre-integrated with Sapiens ALIS and Sapiens IDIT. In addition to enjoying the myriad benefits provided by Sapiens ALIS and Sapiens IDIT, insurers can deploy a portal that will transform their online sales, customer and agent experience.

The Sapiens PORTAL was specifically designed to addressmeet insurers’ needs, guided by Sapiens’ three decades of industry experience. Two key segments are addressed by thespecific requirements for cash, statutory and GAAP reporting, as well as unique allocation and consolidation needs. Sapiens PORTAL:

The PORTAL for Consumers is a direct-to-consumer application that enables customersFinancial GO manages and presents data to buy policies, view the status of their policies and accounts, issue claims and conduct many other transactions that save insurers time and reduce costs. Insurers can leverage their investment by offering customers a unique, real-time customer experience tailored to today’s digital natives.

The PORTAL for Agents empowers the agent with full lifecycle enablement, including the ability to manage their pipeline, sell policies to their consumers and provide top-level customer service in real time. They can also obtain a holistic view of their business performance overall and benefit from full access to all their remunerations, payments, commission transactions and statements. Equipping agents with self-service tools thathelp insurance managers make their lives easier and help them better serve their customers will increase agent efficiency and satisfaction.informed decisions.

 

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Sapiens StatementPro

 

Sapiens StatementPro makes statement preparation faster and simpler by offering one-click navigation between statements, pages and form validations (cross-checks) to the pages they reference. Intuitive workflow and helpful wizards lead users effortlessly through each step, transforming the filing process and offering one-step filing. Additionally, Sapiens offers Sapiens CheckPro and Sapiens reporting tools.

Sapiens Business Decision Management Solutions

 

Sapiens DECISION

Sapiens DECISIONDecision is a businesscomplete decision management solutionplatform that consistentlyplaces software development in the hands of the business domain, creating “citizen developers,” and enforces business logic across all enterprise applications. Organizations use it to track, verifyDecision effectively addresses the complexity of determining and ensure that every decision is based on the most up-to-datethen translating business logic – data, business rules and policies.machine learning used to make business decisions – into operational code. The solution is powered by The Decision Model®, a widely adopted decision management methodology, for which we own a numberbusiness side of patents.

Organizations are undergoing a paradigm shift in the way they approach change, by replacing conventional policyorganization can model, validate, test and process management with a growing discipline called “decision management.” Decision management bridges the gap between business and IT, by enabling business users to rapidly frame requirements in formal business models that can be easily understood by all stakeholders. This ensures thatsimulate the business logic required for all new processes using Sapiens Decision. The process takes days or weeks, instead of months or years. A rigorous, structured approach ensures accuracy, efficiency and consistency during modeling. The models may then be automatically generated and deployed as code into automated DevOps environments, ensuring that the software is complete, internally consistent and accurate, and does not replicate existing logic.

Sapiens DECISION allows the reusability and governance of business logic across all business divisions and software applications, using any rules engine or business process management system, and integrating seamlesslyfully aligned with the BRM or BPM system that the organization has in place.organization’s business needs.

Some of the key benefits for organizations that use Sapiens DECISION are:

·Reduced risk, by assessing the impact of any change (competitive, strategy, regulatory, etc.) and allowing users to simply and quickly design new and sustainable models to meet evolving business requirements.
·Limited costs and complexity, by centralizing the development and dissemination of institutional business logic, which improves efficiency.
·Improved visibility and true governance, by putting business users in full control of institutional business logic and enabling them to trace every policy and rule back to its motivation and documentation.
·Establishment of a “single point of truth,” by providing business and IT users a centralized business logic repository.

  

We are currently focusing on the development and marketing of Sapiens DECISIONDecision in the financial services market in North America and Western Europe, and we are building best practices to be used primarily by mortgage, retail and investment banking where the scale and complexity of operations requires enterprise-grade technology that can easily be adapted as policies and business strategies rapidly evolve. We also intend to developdeveloped and market Sapiens DECISIONDecision for several verticals, including the insurance industry, and leverage our industry knowledge and close relationships with our existing customers and partners. Decision targets multiple markets:

Sapiens Decision for Consumer & Commercial Banking

 

Sapiens Decision for Consumer & Commercial Banking addresses the cost of change. It enables banks to efficiently adapt their operations to the demands of digital transformation, changing regulations, customer demands and increasing competition, using model-driven development (MDD). With the MDD approach, Sapiens Decision for Consumer & Commercial Banking enables businesspeople to define business logic in easily understood models.


Sapiens Decision for Investment Banking

With Sapiens Decision for Investment Banking, the investment bank’s business domain is actively involved in the design, implementation, analysis, testing and optimization of decisions. The process takes days or weeks, instead of months or years. It enforces business logic across all enterprise applications. 

Sapiens Decision for Mortgage Banking

Sapiens Decision for Mortgage Banking enables mortgage institutions to overcome obstacles and empowers them to achieve improved business control, governance and efficiency.

Sapiens Decision for Insurance

Sapiens Decision for Insurance enables insurers to efficiently adapt their business operations to the demands of digital transformation, changing regulations, customer demands and increasing competition. It is currently used by a top-tier, P&C insurance company to implement process automation and effect digital transformation.

Sapiens Decision for Government

Sapiens Decision for Government provides the capability to automate manual processes, alleviates gaps coming from different roles and interpretations, and creates fully validated policy artifacts in a format that other roles in the organization can understand.

Technology-Based Solutions

 

Sapiens eMerge

 

Sapiens eMerge is a rules-based, model-driven architecture that enables the creation of tailor-made, mission-critical core enterprise applications with little or no coding. Our technology is intended to allow customers to meet complex and unique requirements using a robust development platform. For example, we perform proxy porting for our customers in an efficient, cost effective manner with Sapiens eMerge.

 

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Sapiens’ Global Services

As noted previously, the Sapiens Service Suite is comprised of three main pillars:program delivery,business servicesandmanaged services, as well as our various methodologies (which are applied across the first three pillars).

Program delivery includes:

Project and program management
Core development and implementation
Integration
Deployment
Testing


Business transformation services are comprised of:

Business transformation – planning and strategy, business process evaluation, training and change management
Digital transformation – business model and processes transformation, plus data management consolidation and data migration
User acceptance testing (UAT)
System integration

Managed services include:

Hosting services
Application and system management
Ongoing production support

  

Our services modernize and automate processes for insurance providers and financial institutions around the globe, helping to create greater organizational efficiencies, reduce costs and provide a better end-user experience. Built on a solid foundation of insurance domain expertise, proven technology and a heritage of successful deployments, we assist clients in identifying and eliminating IT barriers to achieve business objectives.

Benefits include:

 

·Project delivery experience – more than 3035 years of field-proven project delivery of core system solutions, based on best practices and accumulated experience.experience
·
System integration – we help our customers deploy modern solutions, while expertly integrating these solutions with their legacy environments that must be supported.supported
·
Global presence – insurance and technology domain experts are available worldwidelocated close to our customers to provide professional services.services

 

Our implementation teams assist customers in building implementation plans, integrating our software solutions with their existing systems, and deploying specific requirements unique to each customer and installation. Sapiens’ business services include API integration management and business intelligence (BI) and advanced analytics consolidation. Our managed services offer ongoing production support and a 24/7 help desk.

 

OurSapiens’ service teams possess strong technology skills and industry expertise. The level of service and business understanding they provide contributes to the long termlong-term success of our customers. This helps us develop strategic relationships with our customers, enhances information exchange and deepens our understanding of the needs of companies within the industry.

 

Through our service teams, we provide a wide scope of services and consultancy around our core solutions, both in the initial project implementation stage, as well as ongoing additional services. Many of our customers also use our services and expertise to assist them with various aspects of daily maintenance, ongoing system administration and the addition of new solution enhancements.

 

Such services include:

·Adding new lines of business and functional coverage to existing solutions running in production
·
Ongoing support services for managing and administering the solutions
·
Creating new functionalities, per specific requirements of our customers
·
Assisting with compliance for new regulations and legal requirements

 


In addition, most of our clients elect to enter into an ongoing maintenance and support contract with us. The terms of such a contract are usually twelve months and are renewed every year. A maintenance contract entitles the customer to technology upgrades (when made generally available) and technical support. We also offer introductory and advanced classes and training programs available at our offices and customer sites.

 

We partner with several system integration and consulting firms to achieve scalable, cost-effective implementations for our customers. We haveSapiens has developed an efficient, repeatable methodology that is closely aligned with the unique capabilities of our solutions.

 

Our Strengths

 

Comprehensive suitesofdigital platform of high-end, crucial solutionsbusiness-solutions for insurance.insurance We offer– Sapiens is a one-stop shop offering end-to-end solutions for both the P&C and L&P/L&A markets, supporting most sub-segments of these markets and the complete lifecycle of product lines. Our software supports and enables our customers’ core insurance business processes throughout the full lifecycle, of administration within an organization, including policy administration, billing and claims,claims. These are accompanied by the Sapiens DigitalSuite, which weoffers strong analytics, data management and customer engagement capabilities. We believe this is a unique offering among software solution providers. In addition, our solutions for the retirement market support core record-keeping for retirement services providers, which is fundamental to their operations. Built for global and multi-national operations, our solutions are used in a variety of international regulatory, language and currency environments. OurAnd our digital suite is pre-integrated with our Sapiens IDIT and Sapiens ALIS.core products.

  

Innovative solutions with leading functionality and technology.technology Our platforms, suites and solutions are based on advanced, modern architectures that are specifically designed to satisfy our customers’ needs. These solutionsofferings are integrated, modular and component-based, and include scalable product suites supporting various lines of business. By using our solutions, carriers can support new sales channels, including mobile and social, reduce time to market for new product launches and lower total cost of ownership. Additionally, we significantly invest in research and development to ensure that our products employ new technology, are compatible with the needs of our clients and are easy to use. As a result, our products maintain a leadership position, as recognized by top industry analysts such as Celent, Gartner and Ovum,Novarica – for their levels of both technology and functionality.

 

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One-stop-shopOne-stop shop across products and services.services In addition to our market-leading products across P&C and L&P,&A, we possess consulting and implementation capabilities, which we use to customize our products and design the solution that best meets our customers’ requirements. We believe that our customers do business with us not only because of our leading products, but also due to our complementary service offerings, which enhance our products and enable clients to maximize the value derived from our solutions.

Additionally, Sapiens’ managed services proposition enables our customers to benefit from a long-term engagement model that helps them take care of their IT operational aspects and ongoing business support. We believe that this approach lowers the risks for our clients, as they transition to a new system, and at the same time provides them with the functionality they desire. For example, wedesired functionality. We consult with each of our customers to determine their specific needs and then enhance our core solution and customize the appropriate interfaces. Through these interactions and experiences, we foster long-term relationships with our customers, which provide opportunities to deliver a wide range of our products and services as requirements change over time.

 

Strong, diverse and stable customer base.base We– Sapiens currently serveserves more than 200500 customers globally, including some of the world’s largest global insurance carriers and financial institutions. Our customer base is diversified across insurance providers including life, pensionsof all types and annuities; property and casualty insurers; and retirement services providers.sizes. We have been able to successfully maintain these customers due to our broad product portfolio geared toward addressing the needs of thesethe various industries. In addition, our business decision management platform is applicable across the financial services industry, including a wide range of financial institutions, and offers an opportunity for further diversification in other markets. Such a diversified portfolio of products enables us to benefit further from cross- and up-sell opportunities to this large customer base. Geographically, we derived 34.4%50.2%, 21.7%41.1%, 16.4%, 13.5%4.7% and 14.0%4.1% of our revenuerevenues from the North America, the United Kingdom, the rest of Europe, IsraelAmerican, European, and the Asia-Pacific region,regions, and from South Africa, respectively, in the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, and 33.0%47.1%, 22.9%44.4%, 17.7%, 15.3%4.6% and 11.0%, respectively,3.9% from these respective areas, in the year ended December 31, 2015.2018.

 

Long-term relationships with customers.customersOur products are at the core of our customers’ businesses, which ensures that our customers continue to use and co-invest in our products, providing us with long-term relationships that result in revenue stability. Installing a new core system is a major undertaking for insurance carriers that involves extended pre-production work and entails a comprehensive integration and implementation effort that is offered as part of our services. Many of our customer relationships have been in place for more than 10 yearsa decade and we have benefited from recurring revenues as customers request support, upgrades and enhancements for our systems. In addition, we benefit fromWe successfully leverage these relationships due to our ability to marketin a mutually beneficial way, by marketing complementary solutions to our loyal customer base.

 


Global company – Sapiens’ 500 customers and 3,300 (approximately) employees are located in 27 countries around the world. We have five major development, delivery and support centers in Israel, U.S., India, Poland and the UK. Sapiens’ “think global, act local” approach is based on having experts in close proximity to Sapiens customers, to establish and maintain strong relationships, and provide fast support when necessary.

Proven management team.team Our– Sapiens’ management team has extensive experience in the insurance and financial services industries, and we have been able to achieve our business and development objectives to date. Management has also been successful in retaining key personnel from the companies we acquired,enabling us to benefit from their experience and knowledge of the acquired products and technology. Our management team possesses a variety of skills in product development, business development, sales, marketing, technology and finance, as well as a unique knowledge of the financial services industry. We have maximized contributions from our hard working,hard-working, talented and innovative employees.

  

Our Strategy

 

Leveraging our offerings, geographic presence and experienced management team, our goal is to further expand our presence in the markets in which we operate and further enhance our leadership in the global market. Our growth strategy is solidly based on both existing and new customers, and will include mergers and acquisitions, when applicable, to accelerate our growth. We plan to achieve our goals by focusing on the following principles:

 

Continue to innovate and extend the leadership of our product offerings.offerings Due to past investments, we have become a leader in providing software offerings to the insurance industry. We plan to continue to invest in research and development (R&D) to enhance our software platform solutionsplatforms, as well as expand our business and technology partnerships, and to ensure theyour offerings remain leading products, in terms of functionality and technology. We believeSapiens believes our focus on innovation, combined with our industry expertise, will enable us to improve our existing offerings and allow us to produce new solutions for the benefit of our customers and partners.

 

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Leverage our global footprint to offer our complete platform/solutions suite.We– we intend to broaden our existing offering of solutions to enhance our presence in the geographies in which we currently operate. In particular, we believe that there is considerable opportunity to commence and grow sales of our P&C product suiteplatforms in the United States, and Canada and Europe. Additionally, we plan to market our current suite of solutions to previously untapped countries in Europe, including the DACH region and Spain, and to continue to generate revenue on existing products in new geographies. Sapiens also plans to expand the market reach of our business decision management platform into Europe and the Asia Pacific region. Additionally, we plan to market our current suite of solutions to other countries in Europe in order to continue to generate revenue on existing products in new geographies.

 

Mergers and Acquisitions.Acquisitions (M&As)Our– our M&A approach facilitates our growth strategy. We continually (but also prudently) seek to identify new growth markets to penetrate via acquisition of local offices and customer bases. In addition, we aim to enhance our product portfolio with complementary solutions that will help our customers excel. We believeSapiens believes that our acquisition of local customer bases and expertise will accelerate our market penetration in growth geographies.strategic regions. We plancontinue to take advantage ofsuccessfully leverage our recent acquisition of StoneRiverNorth American acquisitions to strengthen our presence in North America, expand our product portfolio and accelerate our footprint in the U.S. Property & CasualtyNorth American P&C market. At the same time, we are planning to leverage our latest acquisitions of Cálculo in Spain and sum.cumo in Germany to enhance our European market expansion.

 

Capture adjacencies and new opportunities.opportunitiesIn order to– insurance software vendor engagements with insurers are often long-term. To maximize the value of our current offerings and leverage our long-termongoing relationships with customers, weSapiens plan to feature and promote our digital suite and managed services proposition to enhance our presence in the insurance market. To date, our core insurance software solutions account for approximately 80% of our business, while our technology platforms account for approximately 20% of our business. We believe our plan to remain vertically focused, while concentrating on our customers’ ancillary needs, will strengthen our customer relationships. Additionally, we plan to focus on penetratingdeeper penetration of the financial services market with our business decision management platform to aid financial services organizations in the management, design and simulation of the business logic behind operations.platform. Our business decision management platform can be geared toward complianceused in a wide variety of organizations to facilitate streamlined and efficient regulatory compliance.

 

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Invest in sales and marketing.marketingWe– we plan to strengthen our sales and marketing teams by working with and training sales professionals with experience in the insurance industry, or with connections to new or existing customers, enhancing market-awarenesscustomers. We continually try to expand market awareness of our brand and solutions.solutions, and enter new markets and domains within the insurance technology space. We believe that the strength of our core solutions, the experience of our sales and marketing team, and our established and growing customer base create a significant opportunity to provide new and complementary solutions that address the ongoing needs of our customers.

 

Focus on our existing customer base – one of our strongest assets is our large and continuously-growing customer base and our long-term relationship with our customers. As we continuously grow our product portfolio, our value-added services, and our managed services proposition, Sapiens has a unique opportunity to enhance our footprint within our existing customers base via cross- and up-selling. By providing additional services and products, Sapiens can grow its presence with established customers. The company plans to strengthen its account management team and in 2018 we made a strategic decision to create a new team to evolve our previous customer support model from a “siloed-by-business” support approach to what is now a fully integrated customer success team that supports all Sapiens’ product lines. We continued to recruit key executives in 2019, and we will expand this team throughout 2020.

Competitive Landscape

 

We operate in two main markets – insurance and the broader financial services sector – with different competitive landscapes.

Sapiens is focused on serving insurers. The market for core software solutions for the insurance industry is highly competitive and characterized by rapidly changing technologies, evolving industry standards and customer requirements, and frequent innovations.

The market forinnovation. In addition, we offer a business decision management is a relatively new and innovative market, and as such it is still earlyplatform, mainly to accurately identify competition.financial services organizations.

 

Competitive Landscape for our Insurance Software Solutions

 

Our competitors in the insurance software solutions market differ from us based on size, geography and lines of business. Some of our competitors offer a full suite, while others offer only one module; some operate in specific (domestic) geographies, while others operate on a global basis. And delivery models vary, with some competitors keeping delivery in-house, using IT outsourcing (ITO), or business process outsourcing (BPO).

 

The insurance software solutions market is highly competitive and demanding. Maintaining a leading position is challenging, because it requires:

·Development of new core insurance solutions, which necessitates a heavy R&D investment and an in-depth knowledge of complex insurance environments

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·Technology innovation to attract new customers, with rapid, technology-driven changes in the insurance business model and new propositions coming
·
A global presence and the ability to support global insurance operations
·Satisfaction
Ability to manage multiple partnerships, due to the changing landscape of insurers’ ecosystems
Extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements whichand how to fulfill them (they can be burdensome and require specific IT solutionssolutions)
·
Continued support and development of the solutions entails a critical mass of customers that support an ongoing R&D investment
·
Know-how of insurance system requirements and an ability to bridge between new systems and legacy technologies
Enabling mission-critical operations that require experience, domain expertise and proven delivery capabilities to ensure success

 


The complex requirements of this market create a high barrier to entry for new players. As for existing players, these requirements have led to a marked increase in M&A transactions in the insurance software solutions sector, since small, local vendors have not been able to sustain growth without continuing to fund their R&D departments and followfollowing the globalization trend of their customers.

 

We believe we areSapiens is well-positioned to leverage our modern solutions, customer base and global presence to compete in this market and meet its challenges. In addition, our accumulated experience and expert teams allow us to provide a comprehensive response to the IT challenges of this market.

 

Different types of competitors include:

·Global software providers with their own IP.IP
·
Local/domestic software vendors with their own IP, operating in a designated geographic market and/or within a designated segment of the insurance industry.industry
·
BPO providers who offer end-to-end outsourcing of insurance carrierscarriers’ business, including core software administration (although BPO providers want to buy comprehensive software platforms to serve as part of the BPO proposition from vendors and may seek to purchase our solutions for this purpose).
·
Internal IT departments, who often prefer to develop solutions in-house.in-house
New insurtech companies with niche solutions

 

We differentiate ourselves from our competitors via the following key factors:

·We offer innovative and modern software solutions, with rich functionality and advanced, intuitive user interfaces.interfaces
·We use
Sapiens uses model-driven architecture that allows rapid deployment of the system, while reducing total cost of ownership.ownership

·Our solutions are built using an architecture that allows customers to implement the full solution or components, and readily integrate the solution or individual components into their existing IT landscape.landscape
·
Strong and global partnership program, with established IT players and new insurtech companies, to ensure linkage to innovative technologies and new business models, as well as ongoing work to embed innovation into Sapiens platforms
We recognize technology trends and invest in adjusting our solutions to meet this rapid pace.keep pace with today’s frenetic evolutions
·
We are able to fund R&D investment and maintain the competitive advantage of our products, due to our large and growing customer base and financial stability.stability
·
Our delivery methodology is based on extensive insurance industry experience and cooperation with large insurance companies globally. Our track record over the past few years in developing a strong offshore development center is also a significant parameter in differentiating our abilities in the services space
·
We leverage our proven track record of successful delivery to help our customers deploy our modern solutions, while integrating with their legacy environment (that(when that legacy environment must remain supported).

 


Competitive Landscape for Business Decision Management Solutions

Sapiens DECISIONDecision is a pioneer in this disruptive market landscape. Since the introduction of our innovative approach to enterprise architecture to the market, we have identified only a small number of potential competitors.

 

We differentiate ourselves from our potential competitors through the following key factors:

·We believe that Sapiens DECISIONDecision is the only solution (that is currently generally available and already in production) that offers a true separation of the business logic in a decision management system for large enterprises – and that is currently generally available and already in production.
·
Sapiens DECISIONDecision is unique in its proven ability to support complex environments, with a full audit trail and governance that is crucial for large financial services organizations.organizations
·
We understand complex environments where DECISIONDecision is deployed, due to our experience delivering complex, mission-critical solutions

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Geographical Scope of Our Operations

 

For a breakdown of the geographical regions in which our revenues are generated and the relative amounts of such revenues over the course of the last three fiscal years, please seesee: “Item 5—5 – Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—A. Operating Results—Revenue by geographical region” below in this annual report.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

Our main sales channel is direct sales, with a small portion of partner sales. Our sales team is dispersed across our regional offices in North America, the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Israel, Australia, India, Poland and Japan.the Nordics. Following the acquisitions of Cálculo and sum.cumo, we will now also have regional offices in Spain and Germany. The direct sales force is geared to large organizations within the insurance and financial services industry.

 

In 2016,2019, we continued to significantly invest in our target regions North America, the UK, Europe and EuropeSouth Africa and in our sales, presales, domain experts and marketing personnel.teams. We anticipate that our sales team will leverage their proximity to customers and prospective clients to drive more business, and offer our services across our target markets.

 

Our account managers were focused on building ongoing relationships with existing customers during the past year, to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and identify up-selling opportunities within these organizations. We believe that a high level of post-contract customer support is important to our continued success.

 

As part of our sales process, we typically sell a package that includes a license, implementation, customization and integration services, and training services. All of our clients for whom we have deployed our solutions elect to enter into an ongoing maintenance and support contract with us. We aim to expand our distribution model to include more channel partners and system integrators, but we intend to maintain the direct sales model as our prime distribution channel.

  

We attend major industry trade shows to improve our visibility and our market recognition. Additionally, we host client conferencesconferences– such as our annual Sapiens Summit/Client Conference, which took place in Gouvieux, France in October 2015 and in North Atlanta, U.S. in September 2016that are intended to strengthen our relationships with our existing customer base.2016; in Lisbon, Portugal in October 2017; in San Antonio, Texas, U.S. in 2018; and in Phoenix, Arizona and Rome, Italy in 2019. We continue investing in our web presence we createdand digital marketing activities to generate leads and enhance our brand recognition. Sapiens maintains a new blog channel in 2014 (“Sapiens Spotlight”) and totally refreshed and redesigned our website. Wewe also invest in our working relationships and advisory services within the global industry-analyst community.

 


We work together with standards providers such as ACORD MISMO and SPARKMISMO– to further enrich our offerings and provide our customers with comprehensive and innovative solutions that address the entire breadth of their business needs.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We relySapiens relies on a combination of contractual provisions and intellectual property law to protect our proprietary technology. We believe that due to the dynamic nature of the computerinsurance and software industries, copyright protection is less significant than factors such as the knowledge and experience of our management and personnel, the frequency of product enhancements and the timeliness and quality of our support services.services build upon the protection offered by copyrights.

 

We seek to protect the source code of our products as trade secret information and as unpublished copyright work, although in some cases, we agree to place our source code into escrow. We also rely on security and copy protection features in our proprietary software. We distribute our products under software license agreements that grant customers a personal, non-transferable license to use our products and contain terms and conditions prohibiting the unauthorized reproduction, reverse engineering or transfermisuse of our products. In addition, we attempt to protect trade secrets and other proprietary information through agreements with employees, consultants and distributors.

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Our trademark rights include rights associated with our use of our trademarks, and rights obtained by registration of our trademarks. Our use and registration of our trademarks do not ensure that we have superior rights to others that may have registered or used identical or related marks on related goods or services. We have registrations for the mark “Sapiens” in USA, Benelux, Germany, France, Italy Switzerland and Israel,Israel. In the name “RapidSure”past we have registered trademarks and tradenames for many of our products both in the U.S.US and Canada, and the names ALIS, E-ALIS, CORE-ALIS and certain other related marks, as well as the ALIS design in the USAEuropean Union, and Israel.we intend to continue to do so going forward. The initial terms of protection for our registered trademarks range from 10 to 2010-20 years and are renewable thereafter.

 

In the third quarter of 2014, we acquired Knowledge Partners International LLC, or KPI, and the assets of The Decision Model, or TDM, which included certain intellectual property rights, including a patent held by TDM and a patent application for The Event Model, or TEM. Both TDM and TEM relate to decision management methodology that was invented by Larry Goldberg and Barbara Von Halle (in the case of TEM, IBM was a co-inventor as well).methodology. See “Item 4.A. History and Development of the Company– Capital Expenditures and Divestitures since January 1, 2014” and “Item 4.B. Business Overview— Sapiens Business Decision Management Solutions” for further information.

 

In the first quarter of 2017, we acquired StoneRiver. The acquisition of StoneRiver included the acquisition of about 25 registered trademarks and one issued patent.

Regulatory Impact

 

The global financial services industry is subject to significant government regulation, which isregulations that are constantly changing. Financial services companies must comply with regulations, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, Solvency II, Retail Distribution Review (known as RDR) in the United Kingdom, the Dodd-Frank Act, the GDPR (enforceable as of May 25, 2018) and other directives regarding transparency. In addition, many individual countries have increased supervision over financial services operating in their market.

 

For example, regulators in Europe have been very active, motivated by past financial crises and the need for pension restructuring. Distribution of policies is being optimized with the increasing use of Bank Assurancebank assurance (selling of insurance through a bank’s established distribution channels), supermarkets and kiosks (insurance stands). Increased activitysuch as that occurring in Europe would generally tend to have a positive impact on the demand for our software solutions and services. Nevertheless, insurers are cautiously approaching spending increases, and while many companies have not taken proactive steps to replace their software solutions in recent years, many of them are now looking for innovative, modern replacements to meet the regulatory changes.

 

For further information, please see Item 5.D below, “Trend Information.”

 

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C.Organizational Structure.

 

Sapiens International Corporation N.V., or Sapiens N.V., is the parent company of the Sapiens group of companies. Our significant subsidiaries are as follows:follows (subsidiary companies of other Sapiens subsidiaries are listed in indented format beneath their respective parent companies below):

 

Sapiens International Corporation B.V., or Sapiens B.V.: incorporated in the Netherlands and 100% owned by Sapiens N.V.

 

Unless otherwise indicated, the other subsidiaries of Sapiens listed below are 100% owned by Sapiens B.V.:

 

Sapiens Israel Software Systems Ltd.: incorporated in Israel
Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.: incorporated in Israel
Sapiens Americas Corporation: incorporated in New York, U.S.
Sapiens North America Inc.: incorporated in Ontario, Canada.Canada

Sapiens (UK) Limited: incorporated in England

Cálculo, S.A. (owned 100% by Sapiens {UK} Limited)


Sapiens France S.A.S.: incorporated in France
Sapiens Deutschland GmbH: incorporated in Germany (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)
Sapiens Japan Co.: incorporated in Japan and 90% owned by Sapiens B.V.

Sapiens Americas Corporation: incorporated in New York, U.S. (this entity includes the operations of each of the following former wholly-owned subsidiaries of Sapiens Americas Corporation, which were merged into it effective as of January 1, 2019: Maximum Processing Inc., 4Sight Business Intelligence Inc., StoneRiver, Inc. and Adaptik Corporation)

Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.: incorporated in Israel

Sapiens Deutschland GmbH: incorporated in Germany (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

Sapiens Deutschland Consulting GmbH & Co. KG: incorporated in Germany (owned 100% by Sapiens Deutschland GmbH and Sapiens B.V.)

sum.cumo GmbH, (owned 100% by Sapiens Deutschland GmbH)

IDIT Software Solutions (Sweden) AB, owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

Sapiens Software SolutionSolutions (IDIT) Ltd., or Sapiens IDIT: incorporated in Israel (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

 

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IDIT Europe N.V.:Europe: incorporated in Belgium (owned 100% by Sapiens IDIT)

IDIT APAC PTY. Limited: incorporated in NSW, Australia (owned 100% by Sapiens IDIT)

Sapiens (Singapore) Insurance Solution.: incorporated in Singapore (owned 100% by Sapiens IDIT)

 

Sapiens Software SolutionSolutions (Life and Pension) Ltd., or Sapiens L&P: incorporated in Israel (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

Neuralmatic Ltd.: incorporated in Israel (owned 66% by Sapiens L&P)

Sapiens NA Insurance Solutions Inc.: incorporated in Delaware, US (owned 100% by Sapiens L&P)

Sapiens (UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited: incorporated in the UK (owned 100% by Sapiens L&P))

Sapiens NA Insurance Solutions Inc.: incorporated in Delaware, US (owned 100% by Sapiens L&P)

Formula Insurance Solutions (FIS) France:France (F.I.S France): incorporated in France (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited)

Sapiens Software Solutions (Australia) PTY. Ltd.(Former FIS- AU Pty Limited: incorporated in Australia (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited.)Limited)

Neuralmatic


Sapiens Software Solutions Denmark ApS: incorporated in Denmark (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited)

Sapiens SA (PTY) Ltd.: incorporated in IsraelSouth Africa (owned 66%100% by Sapiens L&P)(UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited)

Sapiens Software Solutions (Norway) AS): incorporated in Norway (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK) Insurance Software Solutions Limited)

 

Sapiens Software Solutions (Decision) Ltd., or Sapiens Decision (owned 95.7%92.89% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

Sapiens (UK) Decision Limited (owned 100% by Sapiens Decision)

Sapiens Decision NA Inc. (owned 100% by Sapiens Decision)

Knowledge Partners International LLC, or KPI (owned 100% by Sapiens Decision NA Inc.)

Sapiens (UK) DecisionTechnologies (1982) India Private Limited (owned 100% by KPI)

(formerly Ibexi Solutions Private Limited:Limited): incorporated in India (owned 95%100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd)Ltd. and Sapiens Software Solutions (IDIT) Ltd.)

Sapiens Software Solutions (Singapore) PTE. LTD (formerly Ibexi Solutions Pte Limited:Limited): incorporated in Singapore (owned 100% by IbexiSapiens Software Solutions Private Limited)

Ibexi Solutions FZE: incorporated in Dubai (owned 100% by Ibexi Solutions(India) Private Limited)

 

Sapiens Software Solutions (Poland) Sp. z o.o. (formerly Insseco Sp. z o.o.): incorporated in Poland (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd)

Maximum Processing Inc., incorporated in Florida (owned 100% bySapiens Americas Corporation)

4Sight Business Intelligence Inc., incorporated in Texas(owned 100% bySapiens Americas Corporation)

StoneRiver, Inc, incorporated in Delaware (owned 100% by Sapiens Americas Corporation)Ltd.)

 

Sapiens Software Solutions (Denmark ApS)Istanbul YAZILIM HİZMETLERİ İÇ VE DIŞ TİCARET ANONİM ŞİRKETİ: incorporated in Denmark (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK Insurance Software Solutions Limited))

Sapiens Software Solutions Instanbul: incorporated in Turkey (owned 100% by Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

LLC Sapiens SA PTY Ltd.Software Solutions (Latvia) (formerly KnowledgePrice.com): incorporated in South AfricaLatvia (owned 100% by Sapiens (UK Insurance Software Solutions Limited)Technologies (1982) Ltd.)

 

We are a member of the Asseco Group.Asseco Group is a federation of companies engaged in information technology. Asseco Group operates in most of the European countries as well as in Israel, the U.S., Japan, and Canada. Asseco Group companies are listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange as well as on the U.S. NASDAQ Stock Market. Asseco Group offers comprehensive, proprietary IT solutions for all sectors of the economy.

Asseco holds a controlling interest in Formula Systems (1985) Ltd., or Formula Group (NASDAQ: FORTY and TASE: FORT). Formula is a holding and managing company of (currently) three publicly traded companies that provide IT solutions worldwide, developing and implementing innovative, proprietary software, services and solutions, turnkey projects and outsourcing services, as well as software distribution and support.

Based on information provided to the Company by Formula, Formula held 23,954,09424,029,094 of our Common Shares, or approximately 48.9%47.8% of our outstanding Common Shares, as of March 1, 2017.31, 2020. As of March 1, 2017,31, 2020, Asseco beneficially owned 46.3%held 25.6% of the outstanding share capital of Formula. In addition, under its October 2017 shareholders agreement with our Chairman of the Board, Asseco has been granted an irrecoverable proxy to vote an additional 1,971,973 ordinary shares of Formula, thereby effectively giving Asseco beneficial ownership (voting power) over an aggregate of 38.5% of Formula’s outstanding ordinary shares.

 

Based on the foregoing beneficial ownership by each of Formula and Asseco, each of Formula and Asseco may be deemed to directly or indirectly (as appropriate) control us.

 

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45

 

 

D.Property, Plants and Equipment.

 

We lease office space, constituting our primary office locations, in the following countries: Israel, the United States, Canada,India, Poland, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Japan, IndiaLatvia, China, Canada and Poland.Denmark. The lease terms for the spaces that we currently occupy are generally five to eleven years. Based on our current occupancy, we lease (except for owned real property indicated below) the following amount of office space in the following locations, which constitute our primary locations:

 

·Israel – approximately 135,100166,205 square feet;
·
United States – approximately 20,30088,395 square feet*;
·Canada
India – approximately 1,400162,841 square feet;
Poland – approximately 33,924 square feet;

·South Africa – approximately 3,931 square feet;
United Kingdom – approximately 21,40012,554 square feet;
·Japan
Latvia – approximately 6,40011,401 square feet;
·India – approximately 45,400 square feet;
·Poland – approximately 27,200 square feet; and
·China – approximately 1,2002,860 square feet.feet;
Spain – approximately 12,128 square feet;
Canada – approximately 1,407 square feet;
Germany –  approximately 32,283 square feet;

 

* 10,243 square feet of such office space in the United States constitutes owned real property.

 

Our Israeli offices house our corporate headquarters, as well as our core delivery research and development activities. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the lease at our Israeli facility is for a termofterm of in excess of seventhree remaining years, and we have an option to extend the term for an additional five years. In 2016,2019, our rentrental costs totaled $6.3$9.4 million, in the aggregate, for all of our leased offices (which does not include office space leased by StoneRiver in the United States, since it was acquired after December 31, 2016).offices. We believe that our existing facilities are adequate for our current needs.

 

Item 4A.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein. Our financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. As a result of many factors, such as those set forth under Item 3.D “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the Introduction to this annual report,our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.

 

Overview

 

We are a leading global provider of software solutions for the insurance industry, withindustry. Our extensive expertise is reflected in our innovative software platforms, suites, solutions and services for property & casualty (P&C); life, pension & annuity (L&A); reinsurance; financial and compliance (F&C); workers’ compensation (WC); and financial markets. Our company offers a full digital suite that facilitates an emerging focus on the broader financial services sector. We offerinnovative, holistic and seamless digital experience for carriers, agents, customers and assorted insurance personnel, across multiple devices and technologies. Our offerings enable our customers to effectively manage their core software solutions for Life, Pension & Annuities (L&P) and Property & Casualty/General Insurance (P&C) providers, allowing them to managebusiness functions, including policy administration, claims management and billing, functions.and offer support during an insurer’s journey to becoming a digital insurer. Our portfolio also covers underwriting, illustration and electronic applications. We also provide record-keeping software solutionssupply a complete reinsurance offering for Retirement Services providers. In addition, we offerproviders and a decision management platform tailored to a variety of other technology-based solutions that enable organizations tofinancial services providers, so business users can quickly deploy business logic and comply with policies and regulations across their organizations. Our solutions enable customers to respond to evolving market needs and regulatory changes, while improving the efficiency of their core operations, thereby increasing revenues and reducing costs.

 


We derive our revenues principally from the sale, implementation, maintenance and support of our solutions and from providing consulting and other services related to our products. Revenues are comprised primarily of revenues from services, including systems integration and implementation and product maintenance and support, and from licenses of our products.

  

We also generate revenues from other customers unrelated to the financial services industry, which use our legacy solution based on e-Merge software. For these customers, except for the difference in the target industry, revenues are recognized from the sale of package-based software solutions that include the grant of a license to use our product, implementation and customization services related to the product sold and maintenance and support services and follow similar methods of project delivery. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” below for a discussion of how we account for our revenues and their associated costs.

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Key Business Metrics

We use certain key financial metrics to evaluate and manage our business and that we believe are useful for investors, including select GAAP and non-GAAP metrics. These metrics include, most prominently, our operating cash flow.

Operating Cash Flows

We monitor our cash flows from operating activities, or operating cash flows, as a key measure of our overall business performance, enabling us to analyze our financial performance without the effects of certain non-cash items such as depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation expenses. Additionally, operating cash flows take into account the impact of changes in deferred revenue, which reflects the receipt of cash payment for products and services before they are recognized as revenue. Our operating cash flows are impacted by changes in deferred revenue and collections of accounts receivable. As a result, our operating cash flows may fluctuate significantly on a quarterly basis.

Our operating cash flows were $21.6 million, $40.4 million and $26.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. For a further discussion of our operating cash flows, see “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital ResourcesCash Flows from Operating Activities” below in this annual report.

A.Operating Results.

 

GAAP Results of Operations

 

The following tables set forth certain data from our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, as well as such data as a percentage of our revenues for those years. The data has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report. The operating results for the below years should not be considered indicative of results for any future period. This information should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this annual report.

The below tables provide data for each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019. However, the below discussion of our results of operations omits a comparison of our results for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018. In order to view that discussion, please see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—A. Operating Results—Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, which we filed with the SEC on March 27, 2019. 

Statement of Income Data
(U.S. dollars, in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

  Year ended
December 31,
 
  2014  2015  2016 
Revenues  157,450   185,636   216,190 
Cost of revenues  99,095   111,192   130,402 
Gross profit  58,355   74,444   85,788 
Operating expenses:            
Research and development  11,352   10,235   16,488 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  32,097   39,859   44,460 
Total operating expenses  43,449   50,094   60,948 
Operating income  14,906   24,350   24,840 
Financial income, net  124   163   533 
Income before taxes on income  15,030   24,513   25,373 
Taxes on income  (454)  (4,213)  (5,772)
Net income  14,576   20,300   19,601 
Attributed to non-controlling interests  131   59   (43)
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  (18)  1   (134)
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   224   442 
Net income attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $14,463   20,016   19,336 

Statement of Income Data

 

(U.S. dollars, in thousands, except share and per share data)

  For the year ended December 31, 
  2017  2018  2019 
Revenues $269,194  $289,707  $325,674 
Cost of revenues  175,678   180,138   196,153 
Gross profit  93,516   109,569   129,521 
Operating expenses:            
Research and development  31,955   34,414   37,378 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  60,559   52,133   54,274 
Total operating expenses  92,514   86,547   91,652 
Operating income  1,002   23,022   37,869 
Financial expense, net  (3,010)  (3,991)  (2,768)
Income (loss) before taxes on income (tax benefit)  (2,008)  19,031   35,101 
Taxes on income (tax benefit)  (2,564)  5,031   8,610 
Net income  556   14,000   26,491 
Attributed to non-controlling interests  (189)  215   244 
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  (43)  -   - 
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  350   -   - 
Net income attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $352  $13,785  $26,247 

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47

 

 

Statement of Income Data as a Percentage of Revenues
Statement of Income DataStatement of Income Data
(as a Percentage of Revenues)(as a Percentage of Revenues)
   
 Year ended
December 31,
  For the year ended December 31, 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
Revenues  100%  100%  100%  100%  100%  100%
Cost of revenues  62.9%  59.9%  60.3%  65.3%  62.2%  60.2%
Gross profit  37.1%  40.1%  39.7%  34.7%  37.8%  39.8%
Operating expenses:                        
Research and development  7.2%  5.5%  7.6%  11.9%  11.9%  11.4%
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  20.4%  21.5%  20.6%  22.5%  18%  16.7%
Total operating expenses  27.6%  27.0%  28.2%  34.4%  29.9%  28.1%
Operating income  9.5%  13.1%  11.5%  0.4%  7.9%  11.6%
Financial income, net  0.1%  0.1%  0.2%
Income before taxes on income  9.6%  13.2%  11.7%
Taxes on income  0.3%  2.3%  2.7%
Financial expense, net  1.1%  1.4%  0.8%
Income (loss) before taxes on income (tax benefit)  0.7%  6.6%  10.8%
Taxes on income (tax benefit)  1.0%  1.7%  2.6%
Net income  9.3%  10.9%  9.0%  0.2%  4.8%  8.2%
Attributed to non-controlling interests  0.1%  0.0%  0.0%  0.1%  0.1%  0.1%
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  0.0%  0.0%  0.0%  0.0%  0.0%  0.0%
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  0.0%  0.1%  0.1%  0.1%  0.0%  0.0%
Net income attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders  9.2%  10.8%  8.9%  0.1%  4.8%  8.1%

 

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 20162019

Revenues

 

Please refer to Critical“Critical Accounting Policies and EstimatesEstimates” below in this Item 5.A for a description of our accounting policies related to revenue recognition.

 

Our overall revenues increased by $30.6$36.0 million, or 16.5%12.4%, to $216.2$325.7 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 from $185.6$289.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015,2018, as shown in the table below:

 

  Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
 
($ in thousands) $185,636   16.5% $216,190 
  Year ended
December 31, 2018
  Year-over- year change  Year ended
December 31, 2019
 
($ in thousands) $289,707   12.4% $325,674 

 

Revenues are derived primarily from implementation of our solutions and post-implementation services such as ongoing support and maintenance and professional services as part of an overall solution that we offer to our customers. The net increase in revenues of approximately $36.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 is attributed to organic growth of approximately $38.0 million,2019 was primarily due to implementation and professional services generated from existing and new customers, which were offset in part, in an amount of $4.6 million, due to the devaluation of foreign currencies (in which revenues were received) relative to the U.S. dollar. The increase was furthermore due to $3.5 million of revenues attributable to MaxProour core business growth, mainly in the P&C business, as well as additional revenues from acquired entities, which contributed $4.8 million towards that increase, primarily from the acquisition of Calculo, which was completed on September 27, 2019, and 4Sight, the resultsacquisition of Adaptik, which was completed in March 2018 and the revenues from which were included for a full-year in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2016.2019 (as opposed to 10 months in 2018).

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Revenues by geographical region

 

The dollar amount and percentage share of our revenues attributable to each of the geographical regions in which we conduct our operations for the yearyears ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively, as well as the percentage change between such periods, were as follows:

  

 Year ended December 31,
2015
  Year-over-  

Year ended December 31,
2016

  Year ended
December 31, 2018
 Year-over- Year ended
December 31, 2019
 
($ in thousands) Revenues  Percentage  year change  Revenues  Percentage  Revenues Percentage year change Revenues Percentage 
Geographical region                      
           
North America* $61,332   33.0%  21.4% $74,455   34.4% $136,477 47.1% 19.8% 163,565 50.2%
United Kingdom  42,580   22.9%  10.1%  46,892   21.7%
Rest of Europe  32,897   17.7%  8.0%  35,535   16.4%
Israel  28,315   15.3%  2.7%  29,085   13.5%
Europe** 128,513 44.4% 4.2% 133,851 41.1%
Asia Pacific  20,512   11.0%  47.3%  30,223   14.0% 13,371 4.6% 12.6% 15,053 4.6%
                    
South Africa 11,346 3.9% 16.4% 13,205 4.1%
Total $185,636   100%  16.5% $216,190   100% $289,707 100% 12.4% 325,674 100%

 

*Revenue amounts for North America that are shown in the above table consist of revenues from the United States, except for approximately $0.5 million and $0.9 million of revenues generated in Canada in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively.

*Revenues from North America that are shown in the above table consist of revenues from the United States, plus approximately $0.7 million and $0.4 million of revenues generated in Canada in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively.

 

**Revenues from Europe include revenues from the United Kingdom, or UK, Israel and other European countries.
Revenues from the UK amounted to $38.8 million and $41.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively.

Our revenues in North America increased by $13.1$27.1 million, or 21.4%19.8%, to $74.5$163.6 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 from $61.3$136.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflectingan2018. That increase was comprised of additional revenues attributable to the acquisition of Adaptik, which acquisition was completed in March 2018 and the revenues from which were included for a full-year in 2019 (as opposed to 10 months in 2018), which contributed $2.0 million to the increase. An additional increase of $9.6$25.1 million in revenues from existing and new customers, as well as an increase of $3.5 million of revenueswas attributable to MaxPro and 4Sight,our core business growth, mainly in the results of which were includedP&C business in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2016.North America.

 

Our revenues in the United KingdomEurope increased by $4.3$5.3 million, or 10.1%4.2%, to $46.9$133.9 million in the year ended December 31, 20162019 from $42.6$128.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.2018. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase$2.8 million of $10.52 million in revenues that we realized from our existing and new customers, offset by $6.2 million duea newly acquired entity, Calculo, whose operations we began to devaluation of the GBP relative to the U.S. dollar resulting from the decision of United Kingdom to exit the European Union.

Our revenues in the Rest of Europe increased by $2.6 million, or 8.0%, to $35.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 from $32.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase was attributable to an increase in revenues from our existing and new customers.

Our revenues in Israel increased by $0.8 million, or 2.7%, to $29.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 from $28.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.consolidate on September 27, 2019.

 

Our revenues in Asia Pacific, or APAC, increased by $9.7$1.7 million, or 47.3%12.6%, to $30.2$15.1 million in the year ended December 31, 20162019 from $20.5$13.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.2018. The increase was primarily attributable to an increasegrowth of $7.7our core P&C business in APAC.

Our revenues in South Africa increased by $1.9 million, or 16.4%, to $13.2 million in revenuesthe year ended December 31, 2019 from $11.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2018. That increase was primarily attributable to our existingcore business growth, in both the P&C and new customersL&A businesses in Japan, as well as an increase of $2.0 million due to the appreciation of foreign currencies (primarily the Japanese yen) relative to the U.S. dollar.South Africa.

38

 

Cost of Revenues

 

Our cost of revenues for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively (both in absolute terms and as a percentage of our overall revenues), as well as the percentage change between those years, are provided in the below table:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
  

Year ended

December 31,
2018

  Year-over-
year change
  

Year ended

December 31,
2019

 
Cost of revenues $111,192   17.3% $130,402  $180,138   8.9% $196,153 
Cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues  59.9%      60.3%  62.2%      60.2%

  

Cost of revenues consist primarily of costs associated with providing services to customers, including compensation expense to employees and subcontractors, travel expenses, as well as amortization of acquired technologies and depreciation. Our cost of revenues increased by $19.2$16.0 million, or 17.3%8.9%, to $130.4$196.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, ascompared to $111.2$180.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.2018. The increase in absolute cost of revenues of $16.0 million was primarily attributable to our need to support our overall organic core business growth. Cost of revenues increaseddecreased as a percentage of our revenues during the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, to 60.3%60.2%, as compared to 59.9%62.2% during the year ended December 31, 2015.2018. The increase2% decrease in absolute cost of revenues was related to the increase in revenues during the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2015, including due to the inclusion of MaxPro and 4Sight in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2016. The level of our cost of revenues as a percentage of our revenues remained relatively stable in 2016. Certain projects in certain non-central locations that are not part of our core insurance business had a lower degree of profitability, which contributedwas primarily attributable to the slightsignificant increase in our costoffshore activities, as well as our continuous implementation of revenues as a percentage of our revenues. In addition, the appreciation of the New Israeli Shekel relative to the U.S. dollar also increased our cost of revenues as a percentage of our revenues as recorded in U.S. dollars for the year ended December 31, 2016.cost-efficiency measures.

49

 

Gross profit

 

Our gross profit for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively (both in absolute terms and as a percentage of our overall revenues), as well as the percentage change between those periods, are provided in the below table:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
  Year ended
December 31,
2018
  Year over-
year change
  

Year ended

December 31,
2019

 
Gross profit $74,444   15.2% $85,788  $109,569   18.2% $129,521 
Gross profit as a percentage of revenues  40.1%      39.7%  37.8%      39.8%

 

Our gross profit increased by $11.4$20.0 million, or 15.2%18.2%, to $85.8$129.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, as compared to $74.4$109.5 million for theyear ended December 31, 2015.2018. This increase was primarily attributable to the absolute increase in our revenues by $30.6$36.0 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 compared to theyear ended December 31, 2015.2018. Moreover, the increase can be further attributed to the increase in gross margin by 2.0% from 2018 to 2019 which originated from our continuous implementation of cost-efficiency measures, as well as the increase in our offshore activities in 2019. The decreaseincrease in gross profit as a percentage of revenues for the year ended December 31, 20162019 was due to the factors described above with respect to the increase in our cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues.above.

 

Operating expenses

 

The amount of each category of operating expense for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively, as well as the percentage change in each such expense category between such periods, and the percentage of our revenues constituted by our total operating expenses in each such period, is provided in the below table:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
 
Research and development, net $10,235   61.1% $16,488 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  39,859   11.5%  44,460 
Total operating expenses $50,094   21.7% $60,948 
Percentage of total revenues  27.0%      28.2%

39

($ in thousands) 

Year ended

December 31,

2018

  Year-over-
year change
  Year ended
December 31,
2019
 
Research and development, net $34,414   8.6% $37,378 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  52,133   4.1%  54,274 
Total operating expenses $86,547   5.9% $91,652 
Percentage of total revenues  29.9%      28.1%

 

Research and development, or R&D, expenses are primarily comprised of compensation expense to employees and subcontractors, net increased by 61.1% for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to theyear ended December 31, 2015.This increase was attributable to our greater level of investment in research andcapitalization of software development activities in support of the expansion of our offering of solutions in the year ended December 31, 2016, including due to the inclusion of MaxPro and 4Sight in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2016.costs. Our gross research anddevelopment expenses (before capitalization of eligible software development costs) for the year ended December 31, 20162019 totaled $22.0$43.0 million compared to $16.2$39.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. Such2018. That increase of 35.8%$3.4 million, or 8.8%, was primarily attributable to the same factor related to thean increase in our net researchinvestment in R&D during 2019, particularly in our P&C and development expenses.Digital offerings. Capitalization of software development costs accounted for $5.5$5.7 million of our research and development expenses, net for the year ended December 31, 20162019, compared to $6.0$5.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2015,2018, constituting a non-materialan insignificant change from one such year2018 to the other.2019.

 

Selling, marketing, general and administrative, or SMGSG&A, expenses, which are primarily comprised of compensation expenses for employees and subcontractors, were $44.5$54.3 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 compared to $39.9$52.1 million in theyear ended December 31, 2015.The increase was attributable to a greater investment in our sales and marketing organizations team and our increased marketing expenses to support our brands and expand sales opportunities, including due to the inclusion of MaxPro and 4Sight in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2016, which was evidenced by the 16.5% increase in our revenues in the year ended December 31, 2016.2018, representing an increase of $2.2 million. The increase is mainly attributable to several recruitments of executives, particularly in North America. As a percentage of total revenues, our SMGSG&A decreased from 21.5%18.0% in the year ended December 31, 20152018, to 20.6%16.7% for the year ended December 31, 2016, constituting a non-material change from one such period to the other.2019.

 


Operating income

 

Operating income and operating income as a percentage of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively, as well as the percentage change in operating income between such periods, were as follows:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31, 
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
  Year ended
December 31, 2018
  Year-over-
year change
  Year ended
December 31, 2019
 
Operating income $24,350   2.0% $24,840  $23,022   64.5% $37,869 
Percentage of total revenues  13.1%      11.5%  7.9%      11.6%

 

The increase in our operating income during the year ended December 31, 20162019 relative to theyear ended

December 31, 20152018 as an absolute amount, and the decreaseincrease in operating income as a percentage of our revenues, as reflected in the above table, were attributable to the various gross profit and operating expenses trends described above.above, most significantly the increase in our revenues, as well as the increase in our offshore activities during 2019, which contributed to our increased profitability in 2019..

 

Financial income,expenses, net

 

The amount of our financial income,expenses, net, for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively, and the percentage of our revenues for those respective periods constituted by such amounts, as well as the percentage change in such amounts between such periods, were as follows:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
 
Financial income, net $163   227.0% $533 
Percentage of total revenues  0.1%      0.2%

40

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2018
  Year-over-
year change
  Year ended
December 31,
2019
 
Financial expense, net $3,991   (30.6)% $2,768 
Percentage of total revenues  1.4%      0.8%

 

Financial income,expenses, net, was $0.5were $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 compared to financial incomeexpenses of $0.2$4.0 million in theyear ended December 31, 2015.2018.

 

We engageThe decrease in economic hedgingfinancial expenses in order2019 was primarily related to help protect against fluctuationa decrease in foreign currency exchange rates. Instruments that we use to manage currency exchange risks may include foreign currency forward contracts. The purposethe outstanding amount of our foreign currencySeries B Debentures, which resulted in a decrease of $0.4 million of interest expenses during 2019. A further decrease of $0.8 million is attributable to a decrease in our losses from hedging activities is to reduce our exposure, from the perspectiveinstruments and exchange rate differences during 2019, which contributed financial loss in amounts of our profitability, to the risks that arise from the adverse impact that exchange rates bear on our revenues$1.1 million and expenses that are denominated$0.3 million in non-U.S. currencies. These instruments are used selectively to manage risks, but there can be no assurance that we will be fully protected against material foreign currency fluctuations. We do not use these instruments for speculative or trading purposes.2018 and 2019, respectively.

 

Taxes on incomeincome)

 

Taxes on income, both as a dollar value and as a percentage of income before taxes on income, for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively, as well as the percentage change in the amount of taxes on income between such periods, were as follows:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
  Year ended
December 31,
2018
  Year-over-
year change
  Year ended
December 31,
2019
 
Taxes on income $4,213   37.0% $5,772  $5,031   71.1% $8,610 
As a percentage of income before taxes on income  17.2%      22.7%  26.4%      24.5%

 

In 2019, we recognized a net tax on income of $8.6 million, compared to $5.0 million in 2018. The increase in our expense from taxes on income was primarilyis attributable to an increase in ourhigher taxable income in Israel, the United States, APAC and other jurisdictions in which we operate. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2016, certain of our subsidiaries in Israel and the UK became subject to tax liability following the utilization of tax benefits in previous years.

Our effective income tax rate varies from period to period as a result of the various jurisdictions in which we operate, as each jurisdiction has its own system of taxation (not only with respect to the nominal rate, but also with respect to the allowance of deductions, credits and other benefits). We record a valuation allowance if we believe that it is more likely than not that the deferred income taxes regarding the loss carry forwards and other temporary differences, on which a valuation allowance has been provided, will not be realized in the foreseeable future. We do not recognize certain of the deferred tax assets relating to the net operating losses of certain of our subsidiaries worldwide due to the uncertainty of the realization of such tax benefits in the foreseeable future.

Net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders

The amount of net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders and such amount as a percentage of revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively, as well as the percentage change in net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders between such periods, were as follows:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2016
 
Net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders $20,016   (3.4)% $19,336 
Percentage of total revenues  10.8%      8.9%

41

As a percentage of total revenues, our net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders decreased from 10.8% in the year ended December 31, 2015 to 8.9% for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting the cumulative effect of all of the above-described line items from our statements of income.

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015

Revenues

Please refer to “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimatesbelow in this Item 5.A for a description of our accounting policies related to revenue recognition.

Our overall revenues increased by $28.2 million, or 17.9%, to $185.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 from $157.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, as shown in the table below.

  Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
 
($ in thousands)  157,450   17.9%  185,636 

Revenues are derived primarily from implementation of our solutions and post-implementation services such as ongoing support and maintenance and professional services as part of an overall solution that we offer to our customers. The increase in revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 is attributed to organic growth of approximately $25.6 million, primarily due to implementation and professional services generated from existing and new customers, which were offset in part, in an amount of $11.6 million, due to the devaluation of foreign currencies (in which revenues were received) relative to the U.S. dollar. The increase was furthermore due to $14.2 million of revenues attributable to Ibexi and Insseco, the results of which were included in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2015 (in the case of Insseco, for the full year ended December 31, 2015, due to the pooling of interest accounting treatment accorded to the acquisition of Insseco).

Revenues by geographical region

The dollar amount and percentage share of our revenues attributable to each of the geographical regions in which we conduct our operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, as well as the percentage change between such periods, were as follows:

  

Year ended

December 31, 2014

  Year-over-  

Year ended

December 31, 2015

 
($ in thousands) Revenues  Percentage  year change  Revenues  Percentage 
Geographical region               
                
North America* $49,585   31.5%  23.7% $61,332   33.0%
United Kingdom  34,961   22.2%  21.8%  42,580   22.9%
Rest of Europe  28,351   18.0%  16.0%  32,897   17.7%
Israel  28,821   18.3%  (1.8)%  28,315   15.3%
Asia Pacific  15,732   10.0%  30.4%  20,512   11.0%
                     
Total $157,450   100%  17.9% $185,636   100%

*Revenue amounts for North America that are shown in the above table consist of revenues from the United States, except for approximately $0.6 million and $0.5 million of revenues generated in Canada in the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively.

42

Our revenues in North America increased by $11.7 million, or 23.7%, to $61.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 from $49.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, due toan increase in revenues from our existing and new customers.

Our revenues in the United Kingdom increased by $7.6 million, or 21.8%, to $42.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from $35.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase was attributable to an increase in revenues from our existing and new customers.

Our revenues in the Rest of Europe increased by $4.5 million, or 16.0%, to $32.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from $28.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase was attributable, in primary part to an increase of $10.5 million due to the consolidation of Insseco’s results with our results for the year ended December 31, 2015, as described above, offset, in part, by a decrease of $5.8 million in our other revenues related to our various products.

Our revenues in Israel decreased by $0.5 million, or 1.8%, to $28.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from $28.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.

Our revenues in Asia Pacific, or APAC, increased by $4.8 million, or 30.4%, to $20.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from $15.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase was attributable primarily to an increase of $3.5 million of revenues attributable to Ibexi, the results of which were included in our consolidated results for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Cost of Revenues

Our cost of revenues for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively (both in absolute terms and as a percentage of our overall revenues), as well as the percentage change between those years, are provided in the below table:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended 
December 31,
2015
 
Cost of revenues $99,095   12.2% $111,192 
Cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues  62.9%      59.9%

Our cost of revenues increased by $12.1 million, or 12.2%, to $111.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, as2019 compared to $99.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Cost of revenues decreased as a percentage of our revenues during the year ended December 31, 2015, to 59.9% as compared to 62.9% during the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in absolute cost of revenues was related to the increase in revenues during the year ended December 31, 2015 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014, including an increase in cost of revenues of $9.8 million related to the increase of $14.2 million of revenues due to the acquisitions of, and consolidation in our financial results of, Insseco and Ibexi, in the aggregate, for the year ended December 31, 2015 (in the case of Insseco, for the full year ended December 31, 2015, due to the pooling of interest accounting treatment accorded to the acquisition of Insseco). The decrease in the cost of revenues as a percentage of our revenues during the year ended December 31, 2015 was primarily attributable to our efficiency program that we initiated at the end of 2014, which included, among other factors, hiring of employees in replacement of subcontractors, as well as, recruitment of offshore employees who bore a lower cost to us. In addition, the erosion in the value of the New Israeli Shekel relative to the U.S. dollar reduced our cost of revenues as recorded in U.S. dollars.2018.

43

Gross profit

Our gross profit for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively (both in absolute terms and as a percentage of our overall revenues), as well as the percentage change between those periods, are provided in the below table:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year over-
year
change
  Year ended 
December 31,
2015
 
Gross profit $58,355   27.6% $74,444 
Gross profit as a percentage of revenues  37.1%      40.1%

Our gross profit increased by $16.0 million, or 27.6%, to $74.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, as compared to $58.4 million for theyear ended December 31, 2014. This increase was primarily attributable to the absolute increase in our revenues by $28.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to theyear ended December 31, 2014. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 was due to the factors described above with respect to the decrease in our cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues.

Operating expenses

The amount of each category of operating expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, as well as the percentage change in each such expense category between such periods, and the percentage of our revenues constituted by our total operating expenses in each such period, is provided in the below table:

($ in thousands) Year ended 
December 31, 
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
 
Research and development, net $11,352   (9.8)% $10,235 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  32,097   24.2%  39,859 
Total operating expenses $43,449   15.3% $50,094 
Percentage of total revenues  27.6%      27.0%

Research and development expenses, net decreased by 9.8% for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to theyear ended December 31, 2014. Such decrease was primarily attributable toerosion in the value of the New Israeli Shekel relative to the U.S. dollar, which reduced our research and development expenses (consisting primarily of salaries of research and development employees) as recorded in U.S. dollars, as a majority of our research and development employees are based in Israel. This decrease was also attributable to a shift in the utilization of our research and development employees for project delivery activities to support the growing demand for our products and services in the year ended December 31, 2015. Our gross research anddevelopment expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 totaled $16.2 million compared to $17.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. Such decrease of 6.8% was attributable to the same factors related to the decrease in our net research and development expenses.Capitalization of software development costs accounted for $6.0 million of our research and development expenses net for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $6.1 million in the corresponding period of 2014, constituting a non-material change from one such period to the other.

Selling, marketing, general and administrative, or SMG&A, expenses were $39.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $32.1 in theyear ended December 31, 2014.The increase was attributable to a greater investment in our sales and marketing organizations team and our increased marketing expenses to support our brands and expand sales opportunities. In addition, the increase in SMG&A was attributable, in an amount of $2.9 million, to the inclusion of the SMG&A of Insseco and Ibexi, in the aggregate, in our consolidated SMG&A for the first time during the year endedDecember 31, 2015, due to the acquisitions of Insseco and Ibexi, as described above(in the case of Insseco, for the full year ended December 31, 2015, due to the pooling of interest accounting treatment accorded to the acquisition of Insseco). As a percentage of total revenues, our SMG&A increased from 20.4% in the year ended December 31, 2014 to 21.5% for the year ended December 31, 2015, constituting a non-material change from one such period to the other.

44

Operating income

Operating income and operating income as a percentage of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, as well as the percentage change in operating income between such periods, were as follows:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
 
Operating income $14,906   63.4% $24,350 
Percentage of total revenues  9.5%      13.1%

The increase in our operating income during the year ended December 31, 2015 relative to theyear ended December 31, 2014, both as an absolute amount and as a percentage of our revenues, as reflected in the above table, was attributable to the various gross profit and operating expenses trends described above.

Financial income, net

The amount of our financial income, net, for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, and the percentage of our revenues for those respective periods constituted by such amounts, as well as the percentage change in such amounts between such periods, were as follows:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
 
Financial income, net $124   31.5% $163 
Percentage of total revenues  0.1%      0.1%

Financial income, net, were $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to financial income of $0.1 million in theyear ended December 31, 2014.

We engage in economic hedging in order to help protect against fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates. Instruments that we use to manage currency exchange risks may include foreign currency forward contracts. The purpose of our foreign currency hedging activities is to protect our company from the risk that the eventual dollar cash flows from our international activities will be adversely affected by changes in the exchange rates. These instruments are used selectively to manage risks, but there can be no assurance that we will be fully protected against material foreign currency fluctuations. We do not use these instruments for speculative or trading purposes.

Taxes on income

Taxes on income, both as a dollar value and as a percentage of income before taxes on income, for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, as well as the percentage change in the amount of taxes on income between such periods, were as follows:

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
 
Taxes on income $454   828.0% $4,213 
As a percentage of income before taxes on income  3.0%      17.2%

The increase in our expense from taxes on income was primarily attributable to an increase in our taxable income in Israel, the United States, APAC and other jurisdictions in which we operate. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2014, we had in place a valuation allowance on one of our subsidiaries’ accumulated tax losses. By the end of 2014, we had a deferred tax asset with respect to those losses, which was subsequently utilized during the year ended December 31, 2015.

45

 

Our effective income tax rate varies from period to period as a result of the various jurisdictions in which we operate, as each jurisdiction has its own system of taxation (not only with respect to the nominal rate, but also with respect to the allowance of deductions, credits and other benefits). We record a valuation allowance if we believe that it is more likely than not that the deferred income taxes regarding the loss carry forwards and other temporary differences, on which a valuation allowance has been provided, will not be realized in the foreseeable future. We do not recognize certain of the deferred tax assets relating to the net operating losses of certain of our subsidiaries worldwide due to the uncertainty of the realization of such tax benefits in the foreseeable future.

 

51

Net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders

 

The amount of net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders and such amount as a percentage of revenues for the years ended December 31, 20142018 and 2015,2019, respectively, as well as the percentage change in net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders between such periods, were as follows:

 

($ in thousands) Year ended
December 31,
2014
  Year-over-
year
change
  Year ended
December 31,
2015
  Year ended
December 31,
2018
  Year-over-
year change
  Year ended
December 31, 2019
 
Net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders $14,463   38.4% $20,016  $13,785   90.4% $26,247 
Percentage of total revenues  9.2%      10.8%  4.8%      8.1%

 

As a percentage of total revenues, our net income attributable to Sapiens shareholders increased from 9.2%4.8% in the year ended December 31, 20142018 to 10.8%8.1% for the year ended December 31, 2015,2019, reflecting the cumulative effect of all of the above-described line items from our statements of income.

  

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of our financial statements required us to make estimations and judgments that affect the reporting amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities within the reporting period. We have based our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making judgments about the values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. More detailed descriptions of these policies are provided in Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements included under Item 18 of this annual report.

 

We believe that the following critical accounting policies affect the estimates and judgments that we made in preparing our consolidated financial statements:

 

·Revenue Recognition

 

·Marketable Securities

·Business Combinations

 

·Goodwill, long lived assets and other identifiable intangible assets

 

·Taxes on Income

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Revenue Recognition

 

Effective as of January 1, 2018, we implement the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, Topic 606, Revenue Recognitionfrom Contracts with Customers (which we refer to as ASC 606). See Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements included in this annual report for further disclosures required under ASC 606.

Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services are transferred to the customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration that we expect to receive in exchange for those goods or services.

 

We generatedetermine revenue recognition through the following steps:

identification of the contract with a customer;

identification of the performance obligations in the contract;

determination of the transaction price;


allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and

recognition of revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies a performance obligation.

Most of the Company’s contracts with customers contain multiple performance obligations. For these contracts, the Company accounts for individual performance obligations separately, if they are distinct.

On most occasions, the Company generates revenues from sales of software licenses which normally include significant implementation services. Such software licenses and implementation services that are not considered essential to the functionality of the software license.distinct performance obligations, and are accounted for as combined performance obligations. In addition, we generatethe Company generates revenues from post implementation consulting services and maintenance services.

 

Sales of software licenses are recognized when persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, delivery of the product has occurred, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. We consider all arrangements with payment terms extending beyond six monthsRevenues from the delivery of the elements, not to be fixed or determinable. If the fee is not fixed or determinable, revenue is recognized as payments become due from the customer, provided that all other revenue recognition criteria have been met.

We usually sell our software licenses as part of an overall solution offered to a customer that combines the sale of software licenses which normally include significant implementation and that is considered essential to the functionality of the license. We account for the servicescontracts (either fixed price or T&M -TimeTime and Materials) togetherMaterials (T&M)) that involve significant implementation, customization, or integration of the Company’s software license to customer-specific requirements are performance obligations that are satisfied over time. The underlying deliverable is owned and controlled by the customer, and does not create an asset with an alternative use to the software under contract accountingCompany. In addition, the entity has enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Accordingly, the Company recognizes revenue on such contracts over time, using the percentage-of-completion method in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, 605-35, “Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts”. The percentage of completion methodaccounting method. The Company recognizes revenue and gross profit as the work is used when the required services are quantifiable,performed, based on the estimated direct costs necessary to complete the project, and under that method revenues are recognized usinga ratio between actual project direct costs incurred ascompared to the measure of progress towards completion. The revenues recognized are limited to revenues derived from our enforceable right to receive paymenttotal estimated costs for services that we provide in accordance with our contract with our customer.

The use of the percentage-of-completion method for revenue recognition requires the use of various estimates, including among others, the extent of progress towards completion, contract completion costs and contract revenue. Profit to be recognized is dependent upon the accuracy of estimated progress, achievement of milestones and other incentives and other cost estimates. Such estimates are dependent upon various judgments we make with respect to those factors, and some are difficult to accurately determine until the project is significantly underway. Progress is evaluated each reporting period. We recognize adjustments to profitability on contracts utilizing the percentage-of-completion method on a cumulative basis, when such adjustments are identified. We have a history of making reasonably dependable estimates of the extent of progress towards completion, contract revenue and contract completion costs on our long-term contracts. However, due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that actual completion costs may vary from estimates.

If our actual results turn out to be materially different than our estimates, or we do not manage the project properly within the projected periods of time or satisfy our obligations under the contract, project margins may be significantly and negatively affected, which may result in losses on existing contracts. Any such reductions in margins or contract losses in a large, fixed-price contract may have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.

In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, 985-605, the Company establishes Vendor Specific Objective Evidence, or VSOE, of fair value of maintenance services (PCS) based on the Bell-Shaped approach and determined VSOE for PCS, based on the price charged when the element is sold separately (that is, the actual renewal rate).

contract. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts in progress are made induring the period in which they are first determined,such losses become probable, in the amount of the estimated loss on the entire contact.contract.

When post implementation and consulting services do not involve significant customization, the Company accounts for such services as performance obligations satisfied over time, and revenues are recognized as the services are provided.

When the Company enters into a contract for the sale of software license which does not require significant implementation services, and the customer receives the rights to use the perpetual or term-based software license, the Company recognizes revenue from the sale of the software license at the time of delivery, when the customer receives control of the software license. The software license is considered a distinct performance obligation, as the customer can benefit from the software on its own.

The Company allocates the transaction price for each contract to each performance obligation identified in the contract based on the relative standalone selling price (SSP). The Company determines SSP for the purposes of allocating the transaction price to each performance obligation by considering several external and internal factors, including, but not limited to, transactions where the specific performance obligations are sold separately, historical actual pricing practices for professional services based on cost plus margins, and geographies in which the Company offers its services in accordance with ASC 606. If a specific performance obligation, such as the software license, is sold for a broad range of amounts (that is, the selling price is highly variable) or if the Company has not yet established a price for that good or service, and the good or service has not previously been sold on a standalone basis (that is, the selling price is uncertain), the Company applies the residual approach whereby all other performance obligations within a contract are first allocated a portion of the transaction price based upon their respective SSPs, with any residual amount of transaction price allocated to the remaining specific performance obligation.

 

In addition we deriveto software license fees, contracts with customers may contain an agreement to provide for maintenance services. The Company considers the maintenance performance obligation as a significant portion of our revenues from post implementation consulting services provideddistinct performance obligation that is satisfied over time, and recognized on a T&M,straight-line basis over the contractual period.

Sales commissions are considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. Sales commissions paid for initial contracts, which are not commensurate with sales commissions paid for renewal contracts, are capitalized and amortized over an expected period of benefit. Sales commissions on initial contracts, which are commensurate with sales commissions paid for renewal contracts, are capitalized and then amortized correspondingly to the recognized as services are performed.

Maintenance revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the related maintenance agreement.initial contracts. Sales commissions for renewal contracts are capitalized and then amortized on a straight line basis over the related contractual renewal period. If the expected amortization period is one-year or less, the commission fee is expensed as incurred. Amortization expense related to these costs are included in sales and marketing expenses.

 

Deferred revenues and customer advances include unearned amounts received under maintenance and support agreements and amounts received from customers, for which revenues have not yet been recognized.

We perform ongoing credit evaluations on our customers. Under certain circumstances, we may require prepayment. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that we determine to be doubtful of collection. Provisions for doubtful accounts were recorded in general and administrative expenses.

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Marketable Securities

We account for all our investments in debt securities in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments - Debt and Equity Securities”. We classify all debt securities as “available-for-sale”. All of our investments in available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are comprised of the difference between fair value and the amortized cost of such securities and are recognized, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization together with interest on securities is included in “financial income, net”.

We recognize an impairment charge when a decline in the fair value of our investments in debt securities below the cost basis of such securities is judged to be other-than-temporary. Factors considered in making such a determination include the duration and severity of the impairment, the reason for the decline in value, the potential recovery period and our intent to sell, including whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the investment before recovery of cost basis. For securities that are deemed other-than-temporarily impaired, the amount of impairment is recognized in “net gain on sale of marketable securities previously impaired” in the statements of income and is limited to the amount related to credit losses, while impairment related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income.

 

Business Combinations

 

According to ASC 805 “Business Combination” we are required to allocate the purchase price of acquired companies to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. In allocating the purchase price of acquired companies to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we developed the required assumptions underlying the valuation work. Critical estimates in developing such assumptions underlying the valuing of certain of the intangible assets include but are not limited to: future expected cash flows from customer contracts, acquired developed technologies and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, utilizing a market participant approach, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Assumptions may be incomplete or inaccurate, and unanticipated events and circumstances may occur. We were assisted by third party valuators in applying the required economic models (such as income approach), in order to estimate the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in our business combination transactions.

  

For the year ended December 31, 2015, we implemented the pooling of interest accounting method with respect to our acquisition of Insseco.We applied the pooling of interest accounting method with respect to this acquisition because we and Insseco were under common control. Thus, our balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 was adjusted to reflect the carrying amounts combination between our company and Insseco.

Goodwill, long lived assets and other identifiable intangible assets

 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price in a business combination over the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Under ASC 350,” Intangibles “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other”, goodwill is subject to an annual impairment test or more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Goodwill impairment is deemed to exist if the net book value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value. The companyCompany operates in a total of four reporting units: Emerge,P&C, L&P, Decision&A, IPEL and P&C.Decision.

 

The P&C unit operates our business related to Property & Casualty solutions, workers compensation and reinsurance worldwide (except for those managed under the IPEL unit). The L&A unit is responsible for our business related to life, pension & annuity solutions worldwide. The IPEL unit handles all of our activities in Israel, Poland, Latvia and Spain (for all of our offerings), as well as our activities related to our eMerge product. Our Decision unit is responsible for all of our business related to our decision management offering. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview” for further information concerning our products and services.

We applied the provisions of ASC 350 for our annual impairment test. Under the provisions, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment does not result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, no further impairment testing is required.

 

We performed a qualitative assessmentBased on our annual impairment test during the fourth quarter of each of 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016 and concluded that the qualitative assessment did not result in a more likely than not indication of2019, no impairment and, therefore, no further impairment testingto our goodwill was required.

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Nevertheless, it is possible that our determination that goodwill for a reporting unit is not impaired could change in the future if current economic conditions deteriorate or remain difficult for an extended period of time. We continue to monitor the relationship between our market capitalization and book value, as well as the ability of our reporting units to deliver current and income and cash flows sufficient to support the book values of the net assets of their respective businesses.

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had a total of $28.4$228.7 million of goodwill and intangible assets, of which $20.8$24.0 million were attributable to capitalized software development costs, and the remainder of which were acquired as part of our prior acquisitions.

 


In accordance with ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment”,Equipment,” or ASC 360, our long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. In measuring the recoverability of assets, we are required to make estimates and judgments in assessing our forecast and cash flows and compare that with the carrying amount of the assets. Additional significant estimates used by management in the methodologies used to assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets include estimates of future cash-flows, future short-term and long-term growth rates, market acceptance of products and services, and other judgmental assumptions, which are also affected by factors detailed in our Risk Factors section in this annual report (see “Item 3.D. Key Information – Risk Factors”). If these estimates or the related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record impairment charges for our long-lived assets.

 

We evaluate our intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable, in accordance with ASC 360 (as described above). In evaluating potential impairment of these assets, we specifically consider whether any indicators of impairment are present, including, but not limited to whether there:

 

·hasHas been a significant adverse change in the business climate that affects the value of an asset;asset

 

·hasHas been a significant change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used; and/orused

 

·isIs an expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of before the end of its originally estimated useful life.

 

If indicators of impairment are present, we compare the estimated undiscounted cash flows that the specific asset is expected to generate to its carrying value. These estimates involve significant subjectivity. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.

 

Our policy for capitalized software costs determines the timing of our recognition of certain development costs. Software development costs incurred from the point of reaching technological feasibility until the time of general product release are capitalized. We define technological feasibility as the completion of a detailed program design. The determination of technological feasibility requires the exercise of judgment by our management. Since we sell our products in a market that is subject to rapid technological changes, new product development and changing customer needs, changes in circumstances and estimations may significantly affect the timing and the amounts of software development costs capitalized and thus our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Capitalized software development costs are amortized commencing with general product release by the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software product (between five to(primarily seven years). We assess the recoverability of this intangible asset on a regular basis by determining whether the amortization of the asset over its remaining life can be recovered through undiscounted future operating cash flows from the specific software product sold.

 

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Taxes on Income

 

We account for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740 “Income Taxes”,Taxes,” or ASC 740. ASC 740 prescribes the use of the asset and liability method, whereby deferred tax assets and liability account balances are determined based on the differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Future realization of our deferred tax assets ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income within the available carryback or carryforward periods. Sources of taxable income include future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, future taxable income, taxable income in prior carryback years and tax planning strategies. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount we believe is more likely than not to be realized. Changes in our valuation allowance impact income tax expense in the period of adjustment. Our deferred tax valuation allowances require significant judgment and uncertainties, including assumptions about future taxable income that are based on historical and projected information.

 


ASC 740 addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. Under ASC 740, a company may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits based upon management’s evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date. For those tax positions where it is more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we record the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more-likely-than-not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit is recognized in the financial statements. We classify liabilities for uncertain tax positions as non-current liabilities unless the uncertainty is expected to be resolved within one year. We classify interest as financial expenses and penalties as selling, marketing, general and administration expenses.

 

As a global company, we use significant judgment to calculate and provide for income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which we operate. In the ordinary course of our business, there are transactions and calculations undertaken whose ultimate tax outcome cannot be certain. Some of these uncertainties arise as a consequence of transfer pricing for transactions with our subsidiaries and tax credit estimates. In addition, the calculation of acquired tax attributes and the associated limitations are complex and although our income tax reserves are based on our best knowledge, we may be subject to unexpected audits by tax authorities in the various countries where we have subsidiaries, which may result in material adjustments to the reserves established in our consolidated financial statements and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. We estimate our exposure to unfavorable outcomes related to these uncertainties and estimate the probability for such outcomes.

 

Although we believe our estimates are reasonable, no assurance can be given that the final tax outcome will not be different from what is reflected in our historical income tax provisions, returns, and accruals. Such differences, or changes in estimates relating to potential differences, could have a material impact on our income tax provision and operating results in the period in which such a determination is made.

 

RecentRecently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2014, the FASBFor a description of our recently issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which amends the existingand recently adopted accounting standards for revenue recognition. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date, which delays the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year. The FASB also agreedpronouncements, see Notes 2(x) and 2(w) to allow entities to choose to adopt the standard as of the original effective date.  The new revenue recognition standard will be effective in the first quarter of 2018, with the option to adopt it in the first quarter of 2017. We currently anticipate adopting the new standard effective January 1, 2018. The new standard also permits two methods of adoption: retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented (full retrospective method), or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date of initial application (the modified retrospective method). We preliminarily anticipate adopting the standard using the modified retrospective method. However, we are continuing to evaluate the impact of the standard on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures and the adoption method is subject to change.

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In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases” (Topic 842), whereby, lessees will be required to recognize for all leases at the commencement date a lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. A modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presentedappearing elsewhere in the financial statements must be applied. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Companies may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. ASU 2016-02 is effective forthis annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early application is permitted. We are evaluating the potential impact of this pronouncement.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, which provides for improvements to employee share-based payment accounting. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. We do not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing” (“ASU 2016-10”), which clarifies the following two aspects of Topic 606: (a) identifying performance obligations; and (b) the licensing implementation guidance. The amendments do not change the core principle of the guidance in Topic 606. The new guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual periods, which will be our interim period beginning January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods with that reporting period. We are evaluating the impact of this standard.

In November 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (ASU 2016-18), which requires companies to include amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This guidance will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2018 and early adoption is permitted. We are still evaluating the effect that this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.report.

  

Impact of Tax Policies and Programs on our Operating Results

Israeli Tax Considerations and Government Programs

 

Tax regulations have a material impact on our business, particularly in Israel where we have our headquarters and due to our election to be treated as an Israeli resident corporation for tax purposes. The following summary describes the current tax structure applicable to companies in Israel, with special reference to its effect on us.

 

General Corporate Tax Structure

 

Generally, Israeli companies are subject to corporate tax on their taxable income. In 2016, the corporate tax rate was 25% (in 2017As of 2018 and thereafter, the corporate tax rate is 24% and as of 2018 the corporate tax rate will be 23%). However, the effective tax rate payable by a company that derives income from an Approved EnterpriseAE, BE, PFE or a Preferred Enterprise,PTE, in each case, as defined and further discussed below, may be considerably lower. See “Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments” in this Item 5.A below. In addition, Israeli companies are currently subject to regular corporate tax rate on their capital gains.

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Besides being subject to the general corporate tax rules in Israel, certain of our Israeli subsidiaries have also, from time to time, applied for and received certain grants and tax benefits from, and participate in, programs sponsored by the Government of Israel, as described below.

 


Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1969

 

The Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 5729-1969, or the Industry Encouragement Law, provides several tax benefits for an “Industrial Company”. Pursuant to the Industry Encouragement Law, a company qualifies as an Industrial Company if it is an Israeli resident company which was incorporated in Israel and at least 90% of its income in any tax year (other than income from certain government loans) is generated from an “Industrial Enterprise” that it owns and located in Israel.Israel or in the “Area,” in accordance with the definition under Section 3A of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance (New Version) 1961, or the Ordinance An “Industrial Enterprise” is defined as an enterprise whose major activity, in aany given tax year, is industrial production.

 

An Industrial Company is entitled to certain corporate tax benefits, including:

 

§DeductionAmortization of the cost of the purchases ofpurchased patents, or the right to use a patent or know-how or certain other intangible property rights (other than goodwill) that were purchased in good faith and are used for the development or promotion of the Industrial Enterprise, over an eight year period commencing on the year in which such rights were first exercised;exercised

§The right to elect, under certain conditions, to file a consolidated tax return together with Israeli Industrial Companies controlled by it; andit

§Accelerated depreciation rates on equipment and buildings.Expenses related to a public offering are deductible in equal amounts over three years beginning from the year of the offering

 

Eligibility for benefits under the Industry Encouragement Law is not subject to receipt of prior approval from any governmental authority.

 

We believe that certain of our Israeli subsidiaries currently qualify as Industrial Companies within the definition under the Industry Encouragement Law. We cannot assure you that we will continue to qualify as Industrial Companies or that the benefits described above will be available in the future.

 

Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 5719-1959

The Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 5719-1959, or the Investment Law, provides certain incentives for capital investments in a production facility (or other eligible assets). Generally, an investment program that is implemented in accordance with the provisions of the Investment Law, referred to as an Approved Enterprise, or AE, a Beneficiary Enterprise, or BE, a Preferred Enterprise, or PFE, or a Preferred Technological Enterprise, or PTE, or a Special Preferred Technological Enterprise, or SPFE, is entitled to benefits as discussed below. These benefits may include cash grants from the Israeli government and tax benefits, based upon, among other things, the geographic location in Israel of the facility in which the investment is made. In order to qualify for these incentives, an Approved Enterprise, a Preferred EnterpriseAE, BE, PFE or a Preferred EnterprisePTE is required to comply with the requirements of the Investment Law.

 

The Investment Law has been amended several times over the recent years, with the three most significant changes effective as of April 1, 2005 (referred to as the 2005 Amendment), as of January 1, 2011 (referred to as the 2011 Amendment) and as of January 1, 2017 (referred to as the 2017 Amendment). Pursuant to the 2005 Amendment, tax benefits granted in accordance with the provisions of the Investment Law prior to its revision by the 2005 Amendment remain in force but any benefits granted subsequently are subject to the provisions of the amended Investment Law. Similarly, the 2011 Amendment introduced new benefits instead of the benefits granted in accordance with the provisions of the Investment Law prior to the 2011 Amendment. However, companies entitled to benefits under the Investment Law as in effect up to January 1, 2011 were entitled to choose to continue to enjoy such benefits, provided that certain conditions are met, or elect instead, irrevocably, to forego such benefits and elect the benefits of the 2011 Amendment. The 2017 Amendment introducesintroduced new benefits for Technological Enterprises, alongside the existing tax benefits.

 

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Tax benefits for Approved Enterprises approved before April 1, 2005

Under the Investment Law prior to the 2005 Amendment, a company that wished to receive benefits on its investment program that is implemented in accordance with the provisions of the Investment Law (referred to as an Approved Enterprise), had to receive an approval from the Israeli Authority for Investments and Development of the Industry and Economy (referred to as the Investment Center). Each certificate of approval for an Approved Enterprise relates to a specific investment program, delineated both by the financial scope of the investment, including sources of funds, and by the physical characteristics of the facility or other assets.

An Approved Enterprise may elect to forego any entitlement to the cash grants otherwise available under the Investment Law and, instead, participate in an alternative benefits program. Under the alternative benefits program, a company’s undistributed income derived from an Approved Enterprise will be exempt from corporate tax for a period of between two and ten years from the first year of taxable income, depending on the geographic location within Israel of the Approved Enterprise, and a reduced corporate tax rate of between 10% to 25% for the remainder of the benefits period, depending on the level of foreign investment in the company in each year, as detailed below. The benefits period under Approved Enterprise status is limited to 12 years from the year in which the production commenced (as determined by the Investment Center), or 14 years from the year of receipt of the approval as an Approved Enterprise, whichever ends earlier. If a company has more than one Approved Enterprise program or if only a portion of its capital investments are approved, its effective tax rate is the result of a weighted combination of the applicable rates. The tax benefits available under any certificate of approval relate only to taxable income attributable to the specific program and are contingent upon meeting the criteria set out in the certificate of approval. Income derived from activity that is not integral to the activity of the Approved Enterprise will not enjoy tax benefits.

A company that has an Approved Enterprise program is eligible for further tax benefits, if it qualifies as a Foreign Investors’ Company, or FIC. An FIC eligible for benefits is essentially a company with a level of foreign investment, as defined in the Investment Law, of more than 25%. The level of foreign investment is measured as the percentage of rights in the company (in terms of shares, rights to profits, voting and appointment of directors), and of combined share and loan capital, that are owned, directly or indirectly, by persons who are not residents of Israel. The determination as to whether or not a company qualifies as an FIC is made on an annual basis. An FIC that has an Approved Enterprise program will be eligible for an extension of the period during which it is entitled to tax benefits under its Approved Enterprise status (so that the benefits period may be up to ten years) and for further tax benefits if the level of foreign investment is 49% or more. If a company that has an Approved Enterprise program is a wholly owned subsidiary of another company, then the percentage of foreign investment is determined based on the percentage of foreign investment in the parent company.

The corporate tax rates and related levels of foreign investments with respect to an FIC that has an Approved Enterprise program are set forth in the following table:

Percentage of non-Israeli ownershipCorporate Tax Rate
Over 25% but less than 49%25%
49% or more but less than 74%20%
74% or more but less than 90%15%
90% or more10%

A company that has elected to participate in the alternative benefits program and that subsequently pays a dividend out of the income derived from the portion of its facilities that have been granted Approved Enterprise status during the tax exemption period will be subject to tax in respect of the amount of dividend distributed (grossed up to reflect such pre-tax income that it would have had to earn in order to distribute the dividend) at the corporate tax rate that would have been otherwise applicable if such income had not been tax-exempted under the alternative benefits program. This rate generally ranges from 10% to 25%, depending on the level of foreign investment in the company in each year as explained above.

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In addition, dividends paid out of income attributed to an Approved Enterprise (or out of dividends received from a company whose income is attributed to an Approved Enterprise) are generally subject to withholding tax at the rate of 15%, or at a lower rate provided under an applicable tax treaty (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate). The 15% tax rate is limited to dividends and distributions out of income derived during the benefits period and actually paid at any time up to 12 years thereafter. After this period, the withholding tax is applied at a rate of up to 30%, or at a lower rate under an applicable tax treaty (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate). In the case of an FIC, the 12-year limitation on reduced withholding tax on dividends does not apply.

The Investment Law also provides that an Approved Enterprise is entitled to accelerated depreciation on its property and equipment that are included in an approved investment program in the first five years of using the equipment. This benefit is an incentive granted by the Israeli government regardless of whether the alternative benefits program is elected.

The benefits available to an Approved Enterprise are subject to the fulfillment of conditions stipulated in the Investment Law and its regulations and the criteria in the specific certificate of approval with respect thereto, as described above. If a company does not meet these conditions, it would be required to refund the amount of tax benefits, adjusted to the Israeli consumer price index and interest, or other monetary penalty.

Under the terms of the Approved Enterprise program, income that is attributable to one of our Israeli subsidiaries has been exempted from income tax for a period of two years commencing in 2014.

Tax benefits under the 2011 Amendment that became effective on January 1, 2011

 

The 2011 Amendment canceled the availability of the benefits granted in accordance with the provisions of the Investment Law prior to 2011 and, instead, introduced new benefits for income generated by a “Preferred Company” through its Preferred EnterprisePFE (as such terms are defined in the Investment Law) as of January 1, 2011. A Preferred Company is defined as either (i) a company incorporated in Israel which is not wholly owned by a governmental entity or (ii) a limited partnership that (a) was registered under the Israeli Partnerships Ordinance and (b) all of its limited partners are companies incorporated in Israel, but not all of them are governmental entities; which has, among other things, Preferred EnterprisePFE status and is controlled and managed from Israel. Pursuant to the 2011 Amendment, a Preferred Company iswas entitled to a reduced corporate tax rate of 15% with respect to its preferred income (“PFI”) attributed to its Preferred EnterprisePFE in 2011 and 2012, unless the Preferred EnterprisePFE is located in a certain development zone, in which case the rate will bewas 10%. Such corporate tax rate was reduced to 12.5% and 7%, respectively, in 2013 and was increased to 16% and 9%, respectively, in 2014 until 2016. Pursuant to the 2017 Amendment, in 2017 and thereafter, the corporate tax rate for a Preferred EnterprisePFE that is located in a specified development zone was decreased to 7.5%, while the reduced corporate tax rate for other development zones remains 16%. Income derived by a Preferred Company from a ‘Special Preferred Enterprise’Special PFE (as such term is defined in the Investment Law) would be entitled, during a benefits period of 10 years, to further reduced tax rates of 8%, or 5% if the Special Preferred EnterprisePFE is located in a certain development zone. As of January 1, 2017, the definition for ‘Special Preferred Enterprise’Special PFE includes less stringent conditions.


The classification of income generated from the provision of usage rights in know-how or software that were developed in a PFE, as well as royalty income received with respect to such usage, is subject, as PFE income, to the issuance of a pre-ruling from the Israel Tax Authority that stipulates that such income is associated with the productive activity of the PFE in Israel.

 

Dividends paid out of preferred incomePFI attributed to a Preferred EnterprisePFE or to a Special Preferred EnterprisePFE are generally subject to withholding tax at source at the rate of 20% or such lower rate as may be provided in an applicable tax treaty (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate). However, if such dividends are paid to an Israeli company, no tax is required to be withheld (although, if such dividends are subsequently distributed from such Israeli company to individuals or a non-Israeli company, withholding tax at a rate of 20% or such lower rate as may be provided in an applicable tax treaty will apply). InFrom 2017 to 2019, dividends paid out of preferred incomePFI attributed to a Special Preferred Enterprise,PFE, directly to a foreign parent company, arewere subject to withholding tax at source at the rate of 5% (temporary provisions).

54

 

The 2011 Amendment also provided transitional provisions to address companies already enjoying current benefits under the Investment Law. These transitional provisions provide, among other things, that unless an irrevocable request is made to apply the provisions of the Investment Law as amended in 2011 with respect to income to be derived as of January 1, 2011: (i) the terms and benefits included in any certificate of approval that was granted to an Approved Enterprise,AE, which chose to receive grants, before the 2011 Amendment became effective, will remain subject to the provisions of the Investment Law as in effect on the date of such approval, and subject to certain conditions; and (ii) the terms and benefits included in any certificate of approval that was granted to an Approved Enterprise,AE, that had participated in an alternative benefits program, before the 2011 Amendment became effective, will remain subject to the provisions of the Investment Law as in effect on the date of such approval, provided that certain conditions are met. As of December 31, 2015, some of our Israeli subsidiaries had filed a request to apply the new benefits under the 2011 Amendment.

 

New Tax benefits under the 2017 Amendment that became effective on January 1, 2017

 

The 2017 Amendment was enacted as part of the Economic Efficiency Law that was published on December 29, 2016, and is effective as of January 1, 2017, subject to the publication of regulations expected to be released before March 31, 2017. The 2017 Amendment provides new tax benefits for two types of “Technology Enterprises”,Technology Enterprises, as described below, and is in addition to the other existing tax beneficial programs under the Investment Law.

 

The 2017 Amendment provides that a technology company satisfying certain conditions will qualify as a “Preferred Technology Enterprise”PTE and will thereby enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 12% on income that qualifies as “PreferredPreferred Technology Income”,Income, or PTI, as defined in the Investment Law. The tax rate is further reduced to 7.5% for a Preferred Technology EnterprisePTE located in development zone A. In addition, a Preferred Technology Company will enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 12% on capital gain derived from the sale of certain “BenefitedBenefited Intangible Assets”Assets (as defined in the Investment Law) to a related foreign company if the Benefited Intangible Assets were acquired from a foreign company on or after January 1, 2017 for at least NIS 200 million, and the sale receives prior approval from the National Authority for Technological Innovation (previously known as the Israeli Office of the Chief Scientist) (referred to as NATI)IIA).


 

The 2017 Amendment further provides that a technology company satisfying certain conditions will qualify as a “Special Preferred Technology Enterprise”Special PTE (an enterprise for which, among others, total consolidated revenues of its parent company and all subsidiaries is at least NIS 10 billion) and will thereby enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 6% on “Preferred Technology Income”PTI regardless of the company’s geographic location within Israel. In addition, a Special Preferred Technology EnterprisePTE will enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 6% on capital gain derived from the sale of certain “Benefited Intangible Assets” to a related foreign company if the Benefited Intangible Assets were either developed by an Israeli companythe Special Preferred Technology Enterprise or acquired from a foreign company on or after January 1, 2017, and the sale received prior approval from NATI.IIA. A Special Preferred Technology EnterprisePTE that acquires Benefited Intangible Assets from a foreign company for more than NIS 500 million will be eligible for these benefits for at least ten years, subject to certain approvals as specified in the Investment Law.

 

Dividends distributed by a Preferred Technology EnterprisePTE or a Special Preferred Technology Enterprise,PTE, paid out of Preferred Technology Income,PTI, are generally subject to withholding tax at source at the rate of 20%, and or such lower rate as may be provided in an applicable tax treaty (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate). However, if such dividends are paid to an Israeli company, no tax is required to be withheld (although, if such dividends are subsequently distributed from such Israeli company to individuals or a non-Israeli company, withholding tax at a rate of 20% or such lower rate as may be provided in an applicable tax treaty will apply). If such dividends are distributed to a foreign company that holds solely or together with other foreign companies 90% or more in the Israeli company and other conditions are met, the withholding tax rate will be 4% (or a lower rate under a tax treaty, if applicable, subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate).

 

We are examiningexamined the impact of the 2017 Amendment and the degree to which we will qualify as a Preferred Technology EnterprisePTE or Special Preferred Technology Enterprise,PTE, and the amount of Preferred Technology IncomePTI that we may have, or other benefits that we may receive, from the 2017 Amendment. Beginning in 2017, part of the Company’s taxable income in Israel is entitled to a preferred 12% tax rate under the 2017 Amendment.

 

Tax Benefits for Research and Development

 

Israeli tax law allows, under certain conditions, a tax deduction for research and development expenditures, including capital expenditures, for the year in which they are incurred.  Such expenditures must relate to scientific research and development projects, and must be approved by the relevant Israeli government ministry, determined by the field of research.  Furthermore, the research and development must be for the promotion of the company’s business and carried out by or on behalf of the company seeking such tax deduction.  However, the amount of such deductible expenses is reduced by the sum of any funds received through government grants for the finance of such scientific research and development projects.  Expenditures not so approved by the relevant Israeli government ministry, but otherwise qualifying for deduction, are deductible over a three-year period.

 

B.55

B.Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

To date, we have substantially satisfied our capital and liquidity needs through cash flows from operations and sales of our equity and debt securities.

 

Cash flows provided byfrom operations were $40.4$27.7 million and $26.0$66.2 million during the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively. We used $18.9$25.6 million and $8.3$41.9 million of cash in investing activities during the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively. Cash flowsWe used by financing activities were $14.2$9.4 million and $11.2$20.7 million of cash in financing activities during the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively. As of December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, we had $94.0$64.6 million and $96.4$66.3 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents, and investments in marketable securities, and $51.3$48.2 million and $72.5$42.3 million, respectively, of working capital.

 

We expect that we will continue to generate positive cash flows from operations on an annual basis, although this may fluctuate significantly on a quarterly basis. We believe that based on our current operating forecast, the combination of existing working capital and expected cash flows from operations will be sufficient to finance our ongoing operations for the next twelve months.

 

On March 18, 2020, we entered into a secured credit agreement with HSBC Bank plc. Pursuant to the credit agreement, we borrowed $20 million, for a one-year term.See Note 19(b)

Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including the rate of growth of our revenues, the expansion of our sales and marketing activities and the timing and extent of our spending to support our research and development efforts and expansion into other markets. We may determineUnder our new dividend policy, we will distribute a dividend in an amount of up to distribute dividends40% of our annual net profit (non-GAAP) each year to our shareholders. See “Item 8. Financial Information - Dividend Policy”. We may also seek to invest in, or acquire complementary businesses, applications or technologies. To the extent that existing cash and cash equivalents investments in marketable securities and cash from operations are insufficient to fund our future activities, we may need to raise additional funds through public or private equity or debt financing. Additional funds may not be available on terms favorable to us or at all.

  


Israeli Public Offering and Private Placement of Debentures

In September 2017, we published with the Israeli Securities Authority, or the ISA, and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, or the TASE, a shelf offering report for an offering of a new series of debentures—Series B, unsecured, non-convertible debentures, or the Series B Debentures— in Israel, which offering included institutional and public bid processes. Pursuant to the offering, we offered, issued and sold a total of 234,144 units of Series B Debentures of principal amount of NIS 1,000 each for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately NIS 234.14 million (approximately $66.2 million).

Immediately following the public offering, we entered into agreements with Israeli accredited investors for the private placement to those investors, in Israel, of an additional NIS 45.86 million (approximately $12.96 million) principal amount of Series B Debentures. The Series B Debentures were sold in the private placement at a price of NIS 995.5 for each NIS 1,000 principal amount, thereby generating approximately NIS 45.65 million ($12.9 million) of additional proceeds for our company.

Upon the completion of the public offering and private placement of Series B Debentures, we had issued and sold the full NIS 280 million (approximately $79.2 million) principal amount of Series B Debentures that we had offered in the Israeli public offering.

The Series B Debentures were offered as, and trade on the TASE as, 280,000 units of NIS 1,000 principal amount each. In the case of the privately placed Series B Debentures, resale by the purchasers was restricted for an initial period, in accordance with the Israeli Securities Law, 5728-1968, and the regulations thereunder.

The outstanding principal amount of the Series B Debentures is linked to the US dollar and bears interest at an annual rate of 3.37%, payable on a semi-annual basis (on January 1 and July 1 of 2018 through 2025, with one final interest payment on January 1, 2026). The principal of the Series B Debentures is payable in eight equal annual payments beginning on January 1, 2019, with the final payment due on January 1, 2026. The first two installments, in amounts of $9.9 million and $9.9 million, were paid on January 1, 2019 and 2020, respectively.

In connection with our acquisitionoffering of StoneRiver, in the first quarterSeries B Debentures, we received from S&P Maalot (a subsidiary of 2017, we(via our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sapiens Americas Corporation) obtained $40 millionS&P Global) a corporate credit rating and a rating for the Series B Debentures, which S&P Maalot affirmed, as of secured debt financingJuly 2019 and 2018, as ilA+, with stable outlook. 

We have been using, and expect to continue to use, the net proceeds from HSBCBank USA, National Association pursuant to a credit agreement, as described in “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts—HSBC Term Loan Credit Agreement” below.Under the credit agreement with HSBC, we are subject to affirmative covenants and negative covenants, which include, without limitation, restrictions on indebtedness, liens, investments, and certain dispositions with respect to the property secured by the lien of HSBC. The credit agreement also contains customary events of default that entitle the lender to cause any or allSeries B Debentures for general corporate purposes, including repayment of our company's indebtedness to become immediately duelong-term loan that was outstanding during 2017, financing our operating and payableinvestment activities, and to foreclose onfinancing future acquisitions.

We have extended the lien, and includes customary grace periods before certain events are deemed eventseffectiveness of default.our Israeli shelf prospectus until August 7, 2020, during which time we may offer additional debentures (Series B or other series).

  

Cash Flows

Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019

 

The following tables summarize the sources and uses of our cash in the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016:2019:

 

  Year ended December 31, 
  2015  2016 
  (in thousands US$) 
Net cash provided by operating activities $40,440  $26,039 
Net cash used in investing activities  (18,853)  (8,317)
Net cash used in financing activities  (14,177)  (11,233)
         
  Year ended December 31, 
  2018  2019 
  (in thousands US$) 
Net cash provided from operating activities $27,700  $66,157 
Net cash used in investing activities  (25,581)  (41,868)
Net cash provided used in financing activities  (9,428  (20,654)

  


Operating Activities

 

We recordedderived positive cash flows from operating activities of $40.4$27.7 million and $26.0$66.2 million during the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, respectively. This decreaseincrease in cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 20162019 relative to the year ended December 31, 20152018 resulted primarily from a decreasean increase in net income of $0.7$12.5 million, from $20.3$14 million to $19.6$26.5 million, which was due to the factors described above. The decreaseabove, and a significant improvement in our collection from customers, which helped improve our cash flows was furthermore attributable to an increase of $5.4provided by operating activities by $18.1 million in accounts receivable during the year ended December 31, 2016, as compared to a decrease of $1.9 million in accounts receivable during the prior year, which year-over-year difference contributed $7.3 million, in the aggregate, to the decrease in operating cash flow during 2016. Another contributing factor was an increase in other operating assets during 2016 relative to the prior year, from an increase of $1.2 million to an increase of $3.3 million, thereby contributing an aggregate of $2.1 million towards the decrease of operating cash flows in the year ended December 31, 2016.2018.

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Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities decreasedincreased to $8.3$41.9 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019, compared to $18.9$25.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2015,2018, primarily due to a decreasean increase of $9.6 million in purchasespurchase of marketable securitiesproperty and increase in salesequipment. The majority of marketable securities in the year ended December 31, 2016 relativethis amount is attributable to the previous year.new campus initiated in Bangalore, India in July 2019. In 2016,addition, we received $4.9invested $24.0 million in deposits during 2019, of cash, net, from sales (netwhich $22.9 million was deposited in a trust in order to secure the acquisition of purchases) of marketable securities, compared to $6.2 million used in the purchases of marketable securities (net of sales) in the year ended December 31, 2015, constituting an overall difference of $11.1 million between the two years. The decreasesum.cumo GmbH, which was finalized during February 2020. This increase in cash used forin investing activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 was offset in part by an increasea decrease in use of cash for the acquisition of businesses during 2016,2019, which increaseddecreased to $4.4 million, compared to $2.9$1.6 million in 2015. An additional offsetting factor to2019, reflecting the decrease innet cash used for investing activities was an increasethe acquisition of Calculo, compared to $18.5 million in use of2018, representing the net cash to an amount of $4.7 million,used for the purchaseacquisition of property and equipment during the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $2.8 million in 2015.Adaptik.

 

Financing Activities

 

Our financing activitiesWe used $11.2$20.7 million of cash during the year ended December 31, 2016,2019 for financing activities, as compared to using $14.2$9.4 millionof cash in the year ended December 31, 2015.2018. Cash useused in financing activities in the year ended December 31, 20162019, was primarily attributable to the payment of the first installment of our Series B Debentures, in the amount of $9.9 million, on January 1, 2019. The increase can be further attributed to cash used for payment of a cash dividend in a total amount of approximately $9.8 million, as compared$11.0 million. In the year ended December 31, 2018, cash used in financing activities was primarily attributable to payment of a cash dividend in a total amount of approximately $7.2 million and the distribution of $8.5 million to our ultimate parent company for a business acquisition under common control (that is, for the acquisition of Insseco, as described in Item 3.A, “Selected Financial Data”, above) in the year ended December 31, 2015. Cash used for financing activities during each of the years ended December 31, 2015 andDecember 31,2016 was partially offset by $1.6 million and $0.9 million, respectively, of cash provided by stock option exercises during each reported period.$10 million.

 

C.C.Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.

 

See the caption titled “Research and Development” inpart A. “Operating Results” of this Item 5 above for a description of our R&D policies and amounts expended thereon during the last two fiscal years.

 

D.Trend Information

 

Trends Impacting Our Industry and Our Business

There are various sales and marketing trends that influence our business.Accordingbusiness. As of the date of this Form 20-F, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) global outbreak has begun to a researchsignificantly impact the global economy, as some governments have adopted various restrictions that impact economic activity, including restrictions on travel and public gatherings, and the closing of schools. Although the final overall impact on economic activity is difficult to predict, Gartner has recommended potential action items for chief information officers (CIOs). In its “Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak: Short- and Long-Term Actions for CIOs” report, published by Celent, a research and consulting firm, (IT Spending in Insurance, a Global Perspective, 2016, by Jamie Macregor, Juan Mazzini, Karen Monks and KyongSun Kong,which was published on April 27, 2016)March 4, 2020 (written by Sandy Shen, Owen Chen, Arnold Gao, Deacon D.K. Wan, Lily Wok and Julian Sun), global IT spending by insurance companies is expectedGartner noted that the virus will impact growth patterns, work modes and the continuity of operations. The report advised CIOs to grow from $184.9 billion in 2016 to $208 billion in 2017create action plans for future disruptions and $208.1 billion in 2018. Celent also projected that IT spending in North America would rise to $86 billion in 2017, annual growth of 8.5% from 2016. IT spending in Europe would grow to $59 billion in 2017, at a rate of 1.9% from 2016. Asia-Pacific was expected to climb to $36 billion in 2017 at 5.9% annual growth.prepare for an eventual rebound.

 

According to Celent, IT spending in external softwareOther analyst reports, which were published before the global outbreak, highlighted potential growth opportunities and services, which is the market we address, was expected to grow from an estimated $81 billion in 2016, is expected to increase to $87 billion by 2017, a 7.3% growth rate. Celent reports that the significant increase in external software and services is driven by pure growth in IT spending, and also from the shift in IT spending from internal to external providers (such as our company). This is due to the move from in-house, home-grown solutions to packaged solutions, as IT departments recognize the valueareas of buying software solutions from specialized vendors, rather than developing internal solutions that are difficult to maintain and do not have the advantage of significant R&D investment.

In the insurance software industry, according to a report by Gartner in 2016 (Modernizing Insurance Core Systems Primerfocus for 2016, published January 21, 2016), legacy modernization remains one of the top projects for P&C and Life insurers.

 

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According to Gartner, over 60% of LifeIn Celent’s “Property/Casualty Insurer CIO Pressures and Priorities 2020: North America Edition” report, which was published on February 13, 2020, Donald Light outlined P&C chief information officers, or CIOs, indicate that legacy modernization is extremely or very important. This strategic roadmap will provide CIOs with insight into how requirements from insurers, solution capabilitiesinsurer CIO priorities for 2020. These included a focus on growth, innovation and the vendor landscapeprocess optimization; and utilizing insurtech for legacy modernization will evolve during the next few years (The Report: 2016 Strategic Roadmapmultiple process areas. Three types of applications were cited as a high priority for Insurance Legacy Modernization, published on August 16, 2016replacement by analyst(s): Richard Thomas Nataleinsurers: core systems, data and Juergen Weiss).

According to Gartner, there is great variation in business priorities among insurers around the globe. However, what is clear is that the direction of businessanalytics, and technology are inextricably intertwined. According to the 2017 Gartner CIO Survey, insurance CIOs identify their top three strategic organizational priorities in 2016 and 2017 as digital business, customer focus and growth (or increasing market share).portals.

 

The global insurance industry is evolving in a numberEY Insurance Outlooks report, “2020 US and Americas Insurance Outlook,” suggests that insurers should focus on improving operations and the customer experience, with the aim of areas,long-term customer engagements. This can be achieved via rapid development and insurance carriers require support from their software and IT service providersdeployment of new product types that are more customer-centric, according to keep up. The primary areas of evolution include:the report.

 

·Tighter competition

Nicolas Michellod’s Celent webinar, “2020 Insurance Technology Outlook: Three Trends to Watch in APAC and EMEA,” noted that core system transformation is a high priority for APAC and European insurance CIOs. Fifty percent (50%) of APAC insurers have a core transformation underway and another 20% plan to begin this year. Forty-six percent (46%) of European insurers have a project underway and 19% intend to start this year.

·Tougher regulation

·Customer sophistication

·Globalization and consolidation

 

With the growing need for insurance, asGeneral Trend Information

As people accumulate more property and live longer, the insurance industry has become more competitive. The competition for the customers’ business requires insurers to improve customer experience, be faster to market with new products and offer innovative channels, such as social media and mobile. Innovative technology infrastructure is necessary to support these business initiatives.

 

In addition, insurers are faced with the increasing significance of regulatory changes to protect the policyholder in many markets, particularly large insurers that are considered important to the stability of the world economic system. Many insurers are integrating enterprise risk management as standard operating procedure, while spreading ownership of risk throughout the strategic decision-making process.

 

As customers become more sophisticated, the support of innovative products and distribution channels is mandatory. Insurers are identifying growth opportunities by attracting new customers and retaining current customers by seeking to reinvent the customer experience and provide quote and policy information to their customers upon request.

 

With today’s strong trend of shifting attention to the end-customer experience and activities, there is an increasing focus on digital operations to support the increasing usage of the Internet for sales, recommendations and general communication. This affects the carriers’ needs to innovate their product proposition through a flexible and modern solution. Another substantial trend is the increasing usage of data for decision-making, risk analysis, and customers’ evaluation and rating, which requires streamlined data flow and easy access to information from multiple sources.

Increased global competition, the need to improve distribution channels and provide an enhanced customer experience, and efforts to expand into new countries and markets, have required heavy investments from insurers, resulting in a trend towards consolidation. This has mainly included consolidation of applications, databases, development tools, hardware and data centers.

 

E.E.Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We have not engaged in nor been a party to any off-balance sheet transactions.

 

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F.F.Contractual Obligations

 

The following table sets forth information on our short-term and long-term contractual obligations as at December 31, 2016.2019.

 

 Payments due by period  Payments due by period 
 Total Less than 1
year
 1 to 3
years
 3 to 5 years Over 5 years  Total  Less than 1 year  1 to 3
Years
  3 to 5 years  Over 5 years 
 (in thousands)  (in thousands) 
Accrued severance pay, net(1) $899   -   -   -  $899  $1,258   -   -   -  $1,258 
Operating leases  11,618   4,050   6,400   1,168   -   65,346   8,426   21,871   18,791   16,258 
Liability to the OCS(2)  259   -   -   -   259 
Contingent payment obligations - acquisitions(3)  3,035   1,676   231   1,128   - 
Liability to the Innovation Authority(2)  223   223   -   -   - 
Series B Debentures(3)  69,287   9,898   29,695   29,694   - 
Contingent payment obligations – acquisitions(4)  4,192   2,851   1,341   -   - 
Total Contractual Cash Obligations $15,881  $5,726  $6,631  $2,296  $1,158  $140,306  $21,398  $52,907  $48,485  $17,516 

  

(1)Accrued severance pay relates to accrued severance obligations mainly to our Israeli employees as required under Israeli labor law. We are legally required to pay severance upon certain circumstances, primarily upon termination of employment by our company, retirement or death of the respective employee. Our liability for all of our Israeli employees is fully provided for by monthly deposits with insurance policies and by an accrual.

 

(2)Does not include contingent liabilities to the Innovation Authority of approximately $7.1$6.3 million as described in Note 10(a)11(a) to our consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this annual report.

 

(3)Future principal payments for the Series B Debentures without interest.

(4)Contingent payment obligations for our acquisitions do not include contingent payments in an amount of up to $7.8$3.2 million, in the aggregate, that are subject to continued employment by the potential recipients thereof.

 

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions was $2.5$5.8 million as of December 31, 2016.2019. Payment of these obligations would result from settlements with taxing authorities. Due to the uncertainties related to those tax matters, we are currently unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of when cash settlement with a relevant tax authority will occur. See Note 11(i)12(i) to our consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this annual report, as of December 31, 2016.2019.

 

ITEM 6.Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

A.A.Directors and Senior Management

 

The following table and below biographies set forth certain information regarding the current executive officers and directors of the Company as of February 25, 2016.March 31, 2020.

 

Name Age Position
Guy Bernstein 4952 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Roni Al DorAl-Dor 5659 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Naamit Salomon 5356 Director
Yacov Elinav (1) 7275 Director
Uzi Netanel (1) 8184 Director
Eyal Ben Chlouche (1) 55Director
United International Trust N.V. (2)58 Director
Roni Giladi 4649 Chief Financial Officer

 

(1)Member of Audit Committee
(2)United International Trust N.V. or UIT, is a corporate body organized under the laws of Curaçao. Mr. Gregory Elias exercises decision making authority for UIT. The Articles of Incorporation of the Company provide that a corporate body may be a member of the Board of Directors.

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Guy Bernstein has served as a director of the Company since January 1, 2007 and was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors on November 12, 2009. Mr. Bernstein has served as the chief executive officer of Formula, our parent company, since January 2008.  From December 2006 to November 2010, Mr. Bernstein served as a director and the chief executive officer of Emblaze Ltd. or Emblaze, our former controlling shareholder. From April 2004 to December 2006, Mr. Bernstein served as the chief financial officer of Emblaze. He also served as a director of Emblaze from April 2004 until November 2010. Prior to joining Emblaze, Mr. Bernstein served as Chief Financial and Operations Officer of Magic Software, a position he held since 1999. Mr. Bernstein joined Magic Software from Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global, where he acted as senior manager from 1994 to 1997. Mr. Bernstein also serves as Chief Executive Officer of Magic Software and Chairman of the Board of Matrix IT Ltd. Mr. Bernstein is a Certified Licensed Public Accountant and holds a BA in Accounting and Economics from Tel Aviv University.

 


Roni Al DorAl-Dor joined the Company as President and Chief Executive Officer in November 2005 and has served as a director of the Company since November 2005. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Al DorAl-Dor was one of the two founders of TTI Team Telecom International Ltd., or TTI, a global supplier of operations support systems to communications service providers and from August 1996 until 2004, Mr. Al DorAl-Dor served as President of TTI. Prior to that, Mr. Al DorAl-Dor served as TTI’s Co-President from November 1995 until August 1996 and its Vice President from September 1992 to November 1995. During his service in the Israeli Air Force, Mr. Al DorAl-Dor worked on projects relating to computerization in aircrafts. Mr. Al DorAl-Dor is a graduate of the military computer college of the Israeli Air Force, studied computer science and management at Bar Ilan University and attended the Israel Management Center for Business Administration.

 

Eyal Ben-Chlouchehas served as a director of the Company since August 15, 2008, Mr. Ben-Chlouche served as the Commissioner of Capital Market Insurance and Savings at the Israeli Ministry of Finance from 2002 through 2005, where he was responsible for implementation of fundamental reforms in pension savings. Prior to that, he served as a Deputy Commissioner of Capital Market Insurance and Savings and as a Senior Foreign Exchange and Investment Manager in the Foreign Exchange Department of the Bank of Israel.  He also served as an Investment Officer in the Foreign Exchange Department of the Bank of England, in London. Mr. Ben-Chlouche served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Shahar Group, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Directors of the Shekel Group until the end of 2007 and serves as a director of Matrix IT Ltd. and Migdal Holding Ltd. Mr. Ben-Chlouche also serves on the Board of Directors of several other private companies. Mr. Ben-Chlouche also serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Caesarea Center for Capital Markets and Risk Management. In 2005, Mr. Ben-Chlouche served as a member of the Bachar Committee on Capital Market Reform in Israel. Mr. Ben-Chlouche is an independent director.

Naamit Salomon has served as a director of the Company since September 2003. She held the position of Chief Financial Officer of Formula from August 1997 until December 2009. Since January 2010 Ms. Salomon has served as a partner in an investment company. Ms. Salomon also serves as a director of Magic. From 1990 through August 1997, Ms. Salomon was a controller of two large, privately held companies in the Formula Group. Ms. Salomon holds a BA in economics and business administration from Ben Gurion University and an LL.M. from the Bar-Ilan University.

Yacov Elinav has served as a director of the Company since March 2005. For over 30 years, Mr. Elinav served in various positions at Bank Hapoalim B.M., which is listed on the London and Tel Aviv Stock Exchanges, including over 10 years as a member of the Board of Management, responsible for subsidiary and related companies.  From 1992 through 2006, Mr. Elinav served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Diur B.P. Ltd., the real estate subsidiary of Bank Hapoalim. From August 2004 until 2009, Mr. Elinav served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of DS Securities and Investments, Ltd. From August 2004 through 2008, Mr. Elinav served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of DS Provident Funds Ltd., and from 2010 until August 2015, served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Golden Pages Ltd.. Mr. Elinav also serves on the Board of Directors of several other public and private companies. Mr. Elinav is an independent director.

 

Uzi Netanel has served hasas a director of the Company since March 2005.He2005. He has served as chairman of the Board of Directors of Maccabi Enterprise Development & Management Ltd., since 2005, and as a director of Maccabi Health Services since 2005. He previously served as Chairman of Maccabi Group Holdings Ltd., from 2005 through 2011.From2011. From 2004 through 2007, Mr. Netanel served as Chairman of Board of Directors of M.L.L Software & Computers, and from 2000 through 2011 served as a director of Bazan and Carmel Olephine.FromOlephine. From 2001 through 2003, Mr. Netanel served as partner in the FIMI Opportunity Fund.FromFund. From 1993 through 2001, he served as Active Chairman of Israel Discount Capital Markets and Investments Ltd.FromLtd. From 1997 to 1999, Mr. Netanel served as Chairman of Poliziv Plastics Company (1998) Ltd.FromLtd. From 2005 through 2014, he served as director of Maman Group and from 2012 through 2014, he served as director of Gadot Biochemicals. Mr. Netanel also serves on the Board of Directors of Acme Trading, Scope Metals Ltd. (external director),Assuta Health Centers and Maccabi Health Services.Mr.Dorcel (B.A.Z.) Ltd. Mr. Netanel is an independent director.

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United International Trust N.V., or UIT, is a corporate body duly established under the laws of the (former) Netherlands Antillies and validly existing under the laws of Curaçao.  It, or one of its predecessor entities, has provided the Company with corporate-related services since April 1990, including serving as the Company’s transfer agent and registrar, maintaining the corporate-related records of the Company, and filing various corporate documents with the governmental authorities in the Netherlands Antilles.  In January 1, 2007, UIT was established by former shareholders of Intertrust (Curaçao) N.V., including Mr. Elias, which subsequently operated under the names of MeesPierson Intertrust (Curaçao) N.V. and Fortis Intertrust (Curaçao) N.V.   Between 2005 and June 2009, Mr. Elias acted as a Supervisory Board Member of Banco di Caribe and currently acts as Of Counsel thereto. Mr. Elias also serves as special counsel to the Government of Curaçao, in international finance / tax matters. He holds board positions in several organizations of a social, economic, (e)-commercial and charitable nature. He was knighted Companion of the Order of Orange-Nassau in March 2011 for his numerous contributions to charity and community projects over the past 30 years. Mr. Elias holds two Masters degrees in Law from the University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

 

Roni Giladi joined the Company as Chief Financial Officer in July 2007. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Giladi served as the Director of Finance at Emblaze from January 2007. Prior to joining Emblaze, Mr. Giladi served as Chief Financial Officer of RichFX, from August 2003 until November 2006, after serving as Corporate Controller from June 2002. Prior to RichFX, Mr. Giladi worked at EY Israel, from 1997-2002, as a manager in the high-tech practice group. From July 2007 until July 2010, Mr. Giladi served as a board member of MediRisk Solutions Ltd., as the nominee of the Company. Mr. Giladi is Certified Licensed Public Accountant and holds a BA in Business Management and Accounting from the College of Management in Israel.

 

TheUnder our Articles, the Board of Directors must have a minimum of three, and may have a maximum of 24, directors. Directors of the Company are appointed by our General Meeting of Shareholders and hold office until the expiration of the term of their appointment by our General Meeting of Shareholders, or until they resign or are suspended or dismissed by the General Meeting of Shareholders. The Board of Directors may appoint up to four directors in addition to the directors elected by the General Meeting of Shareholders, subject to the maximum number of directors permitted, and any such appointment shall be effective until the next General Meeting of Shareholders. The Board of Directors may fill any vacancies on the Board of Directors, whether as a result of the resignation or dismissal of a director, or as a result of a decision of the Board of Directors to expand the Board of Directors.

 

Our executive officers are appointed by, and serve at the discretion of, our Board of Directors.

 

Our Chairman, Guy Bernstein, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Formula and as a director of Asseco. In addition, Ms. Salomon, another Board member of ours, who served as an executive officer of Formula until December 2009, is a member of the Board of Directors of our affiliate Magic Software Enterprises Ltd. Formula directly owns (as of March 1, 2017)31, 2020) approximately 48.9%47.8% of our currently outstanding Common Shares, and Asseco holds a controlling interest in Formula (46.3%25.6% of the outstanding share capital of Formula, as well as the power to vote an additional 1,971,973 ordinary shares of March 1, 2017).Formula, thereby effectively giving Asseco beneficial ownership (voting power) over an aggregate of 38.5% of Formula’s outstanding ordinary shares.

 

B.B.Compensation of Directors and Officers

 

The aggregate amount of compensation paid by us, or accrued by us, for all directors and executive officers as a group for services in all capacities with respect to the fiscal year ended December 31, 20162019 was $1.7 million. In addition to the foregoing amount, we also$1.8 million, which includes amounts set aside or accrued for our directors and executive officers with respect to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 $60,000 forprovide cash bonuses, pension, retirement severance, vacation accrual andor similar benefits of the Company. benefits.

These compensation amounts do not include amounts expended by us for automobiles made available to our officers or expenses (including business travel and professional and business association dues) reimbursed to such officers. The foregoing amounts also exclude the value of stock option grants to our directors and officers pursuant to our 2011 Share Incentive Plan, which is described below.

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We have employment agreements with our officers.  We also enter into confidentiality agreements with our personnel and have entered into non-competition and confidentiality agreements with our officers and high-level technical personnel, in each case in the ordinary course of business.  We do not maintain key person life insurance on any of our executive officers.

 

Board Fees and Expenses

 

We reimburse all members of our Board of Directors for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at meetings of the Board of Directors or its committees.

 

We pay a feepaid with respect to 2019 fees of approximately $26,600$117,000, in the aggregate, to all of our independent directors (except to Formula, to which we pay approximately $23,200 in respect of the service of its Chief Executive Officer, Guy Bernstein, as our Chairman of the Board)Board, as described below), in respect of their service on our Board of Directors, including for attending or participating in meetings of the Board of Directors and its committees, and for participating in Board action taken via unanimous written consent. Such fees arewere set in accordance with the rates paid to “external directors” under the Israeli Companies Law 5759-1999. Although we are not an Israeli company and are not subject to the Israeli Companies Law, we deem certain standards of that body of law (including compensation to Board members) relevant to a company such as ours that has a substantial percentageours. In addition to fees paid to our other independent directors, we also paid approximately $25,000 to Formula in respect of Israeli operations and Israeli employees. United International Trust N.V., which also qualifiesthe service of its Chief Executive Officer, Guy Bernstein, as an independent director, instead receives a feeour Chairman of $1,200 for director services and an additional annual amount for consulting and related services that it provides to us.the Board.


Stock Option and Incentive PlansPlan

Prior Incentive Plans

In 1992, 2003 and 2005, our Board of Directors adopted (and our shareholders subsequently approved) our 1992 Stock Option and Incentive Plan, 2003 Share Option Plan, and Incentive Stock Option Plan, respectively, collectively referred to as our Prior Incentive Plans. These plans were administered by our Compensation Committee. Upon the approval of our 2011 Share Incentive Plan (as described below), our Board of Directors determined that no further awards would be granted under the Prior Incentive Plans. Furthermore, the exercise period for all remaining outstanding options under the Prior Incentive Plans terminated in September 2015. Consequently, there are no remaining awards outstanding under any of the Prior Incentive Plans.

 

2011 Share Incentive Plan

 

In 2011, in connection with our acquisition of IDIT and FIS, our Board of Directors adopted our 2011 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2011 Plan, pursuant to which our employees, directors, officers, consultants, advisors, suppliers, business partners, customers and any other person or entity whose services are considered valuable are eligible to receive options, restricted shares, restricted share units and other share-based awards. The number of Common Shares available under the 2011 Plan was set at 4,000,000.

 

Options granted under the 2011 Plan may be ISOs or NQSOs within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code. In the case of Israeli grantees, we intend that options granted comply with, and benefit from, applicable tax laws and regulations in Israel. We are also eligible to grant restricted stock, restricted share units and other share-based compensation in addition to or in lieu of any other award under the 2011 Plan.

 

The 2011 Plan is administered by the compensation committee of our Board of Directors, or the Compensation Committee. Subject to the provisions of the 2011 Plan, the Compensation Committee determines the type of award, when and to whom awards will be granted and the number of shares covered by each award. The Compensation Committee also determines the terms, provisions, and kind of consideration payable (if any), with respect to awards. The Compensation Committee has discretionary authority to interpret the 2011 Plan and to adopt practices related thereto. In determining the persons to whom awards shall be granted and the number of shares covered by each award, the Compensation Committee takes into account their present and potential contributions to the success of the Company and such other factors as the Compensation Committee shall deem relevant in connection with accomplishing the purpose of the 2011 Plan.

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Under the 2011 Plan, an option may be granted on such terms and conditions as the Compensation Committee may approve, and generally may be exercised for a period of up to 6 years from the date of grant. Options granted under the 2011 Plan become exercisable in four equal, annual installments, beginning with the first anniversary of the date of the grant, or pursuant to such other schedule as the Compensation Committee may provide in the option agreement. The exercise price of such options generally will be not less than 100% of the fair market value per share of the Common Shares at the date of the grant. In the case of ISOs, certain limitations apply with respect to the aggregate value of option shares which can become exercisable for the first time during any one calendar year, and certain additional limitations apply to “Ten Percent Shareholders” (as defined in the 2011 Plan). The Compensation Committee may provide for the payment of the exercise price in cash, by delivery of other Common Shares having a fair market value equal to such option exercise price, by a combination thereof or by any method in accordance with the terms of the option agreements. The exercise price for each outstanding option to purchase one Common Share granted under the 2011 Plan is subject to reduction by the per share amount of any dividend that we declare from time to time while the option is outstanding. The 2011 Plan contains special rules governing the period during which options may be exercised in the case of death, disability, or other termination of employment. Options are not transferable except by will or pursuant to applicable laws of descent and distribution upon death of an employee, unless otherwise approved by our Board of Directors.

 

The 2011 Plan also provides for the granting of restricted share awards, which are awards of Common Shares that may not be disposed of, except by will or the laws of descent and distribution, for such period as the Compensation Committee determines (which we refer to as the restricted period). The Compensation Committee may also impose such other conditions and restrictions on the shares as it deems appropriate, including the satisfaction of performance criteria. The Compensation Committee may provide that such restrictions will lapse with respect to specified percentages of the awarded shares on successive anniversaries of the date of the award. During the restricted period, the grantee is entitled to receive dividends with respect to, and to vote the shares awarded to him or her. If, during the restricted period, the grantee’s continuous employment with the Company terminates for any reason, any shares remaining subject to restrictions will be forfeited. The Compensation Committee has the authority to cancel any or all outstanding restrictions prior to the end of the restricted period, including cancellation of restrictions in connection with certain types of termination of employment.

 


The 2011 Plan furthermore provides for the granting of restricted share units, which are awards that are settled by the issuance of a number of Common Shares. The grantee has no rights with respect to such Common Shares until they are actually issued to the grantee. In January 2020, we granted RSUs under the 2011 Plan to (i) employees of sum.cumo, as part of the consideration for the acquisition of that company, as well (ii) other employees. The Compensation Committee may also grant other share-based awards under the 2011 Plan, such as share appreciation rights.

 

In February 2016, our Board of Directors approved the reservation of an additional 4,000,000 Common Shares for issuance under the 2011 Plan. As of December 31, 2016, 2,137,7832019, 1,869,412 Common Shares were issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options under the 2011 Plan, at a weighted average exercise price of $6.91$10.25 per share, of which options to purchase 1,172,950970,408 Common Shares had vested. 818,9321,020,000 of such Common Shares were issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options held by our directors and executive officers. As of December 31, 2016, 3,900,2842019, 3,044,730 Common Shares were available for future grant under the 2011 Plan.

Restricted Share and Option Grants Outside of Our Stock Option and Incentive Plans

During 2016, an additional 29,500 of the 88,500 restricted shares of Sapiens Decision, the Company's majority-owned subsidiary that were granted to one of the former shareholders of KPI in 2014 (as described in note 1d(3) to our consolidated financial statements included in this annual report) vested (in addition to the 29,500 of such 88,500 restricted shares that had vested in 2015), thereby reducing the Company’s percentage ownership of Sapiens Decision from 95.7% to 94.25%. During 2016, Sapiens Decision issued options to certain of its employees to purchase shares of Sapiens Decision.

 

C.C.Board Practices

 

Members of our Board of Directors are elected by a vote at the annual general meeting of shareholders and serve for a term of one year, until the following year’s annual meeting. Directors may serve multiple terms and are elected by a majority of the votes cast at the meeting. The Chief Executive Officer serves until his removal by the Board of Directors or resignation from office. Our non-employee directors do not have agreements with the Company for benefits upon termination of their service as directors.

 

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Audit Committee

 

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors is comprised of three independent directors (such independence determination having been made(as determined by our Board of Directors in accordance with the NASDAQ Listing Rules)Rule 5605(c)(2)(A) and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act), who were nominatedappointed to that committee by the Board of Directors: Yacov Elinav, Uzi Netanel and Eyal Ben Chlouche. Mr. Elinav serves as the chairman of the committee. The Board of Directors has furthermore determined that Mr. Elinav meets the definition of an audit committee financial expert (as defined in paragraph (b) of Item 16A of Form 20-F promulgated by the SEC). The primary function of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by reviewing financial information, internal controls and the audit process. In addition, the Committeecommittee is responsible for oversight of the work of our independent auditors. The Committeecommittee meets at regularly scheduled quarterly meetings.

Compensation Committee

 

The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors is comprised of three directors, nominatedwho were appointed to that committee by the Board of Directors: Uzi Netanel, Naamit Salomon and Guy Bernstein. Mr. Bernstein serves as the chairman of the committee. The Compensation Committee is responsible for the review and approval of grants of options to our employees and other compensation matters as requested by theour Board of Directors from time to time.

Corporate Governance Policies Adopted by Board

While not incorporated in Israel, our headquarters are located in Israel and we therefore voluntarily conform with corporate governance practices that are customary for an Israeli company whose shares are listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market. Accordingly, our Board of Directors has adopted various policies and procedures that apply to our employees and directors and that are meant to implement risk management on a company-wide level, including, among others, the following:

Code of Ethics— constitutes a guide of principles designed to help our employees conduct business honestly and with integrity (and which is referenced in Item 16B below).


Whistleblower Policy— enables the anonymous submission by our employees of reports regarding illegal or dishonest activities.

Insider Trading Policy— implements restrictions (including quarterly blackout periods) for our employees that reinforce legal prohibitions on their use of material inside information in effecting transactions in our securities.

Antifraud Policy— aimed at detecting and preventing fraud, misappropriations, and other irregularities by our employees, including any intentional, false representation or concealment of material facts for the purpose of inducing another to act upon it in connection with their activities with third parties on behalf of our company.

Related Party Transactions Policy— intended to ensure the proper disclosure to, and approval by (if approved), our Audit Committee of transactions between our company and any of its related parties (including officers, directors and Formula and Asseco— our largest direct and indirect shareholders, respectively) in an amount equal to or exceeding $120,000, in order to ensure that any such transactions are in the best interest of our company and our shareholders. The policy provides that our General Counsel and CFO review and approve all related party transactions, and report such transactions to our Audit Committee, although only those transactions equal to or exceeding $120,000 require approval of the Audit Committee.

Internal Auditor

Our Company has appointed an internal auditor.

The role of the internal auditor is to provide assurance that the Company’s risk management, governance and internal control processes are operating effectively. This includes examining, among other things, our compliance with applicable law and orderly business procedures, including the implementation of proper internal controls in compliance with SOX requirements and our Related Party Transactions Policy.

 

NASDAQ Opt-Outs for a Foreign Private Issuer

 

We are a foreign private issuer within the meaning of NASDAQ Listing Rule 5005(a)(18), since we are governed by the laws of Curaçaothe Cayman Islands and we meet the other criteria set forth for a “foreign private issuer” under Rule 3b-4(c) under the Exchange Act.

 

Pursuant to NASDAQ Listing Rule 5615(a)(3), a foreign private issuer may follow home country practice in lieu of certain provisions of the NASDAQ Listing Rule 5600 series and certain other NASDAQ Listing Rules. Please see “Item 16G. Corporate Governance” below for a description of the manner in which we rely upon home country practice in lieu of compliance with certain of the NASDAQ Listing Rules.

 

D.D.Employees

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had a total of 1,9282,959 employees, a 22.6%24% increase relative to the end of 2015.2018.

 

The following table sets forth the number of our employees as of the end of each of the past three fiscal years, according to their geographic regions:

 

Geographic Region Total Number of Employees as of December 31,  Total Number of Employees as of December 31, 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
Israel  676   790   862   864   726   701 
UK and Europe  212   367   445   407   358   533 
North America  88   113   175   511   527   581 
Asia Pacific  41   303   446   594   767   1,144 
Total Employees  1,017   1,573   1,928   2,376   2,378   2,959 

 

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E.E.Share Ownership

 

The number of our Common Shares beneficially owned by our directors and executive officers individually, and by our directors and executive officers as a group, as of March 1, 2017,31, 2020, is as follows:

 

  Shares Beneficially Owned 
  Number  Percent (1) 
       
Roni Al Dor  1,124,781(2)  2.3%
         
All directors and executive officers as a group(7 persons, including Roni Al-Dor)(3) (4)  2,284,950   4.5%
  Shares Beneficially Owned 
  Number  Percent(1) 
    
Roni Al-Dor  1,374,781(2)  2.7%

All directors and executive officers(3)

as a group (7 persons, including Roni Al-Dor)(3)

  1,639,529(4)  3.2%

 

(1)Unless otherwise indicated below, the persons in the above table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by them. The percentages shown are based on 49,035,95150,229,215 Common Shares outstanding (which excludes 2,328,296 Common Shares held in treasury) as of March 1, 2017,31, 2020, plus such number of Common Shares as the relevant person or group had the right to receive upon exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of March 1, 2017.31, 2020.

 

(2)Includes options to purchase 408,932600,000 Common Shares under the 2011 Plan at a weighted averagean exercise price of $5.87ranging between $7.60 to $11.23 per share expiring no later than May 2021, which are vested or will become vested within 60 days of March 1, 2017.31, 2020. See Item 6 - “Directors, Senior Management and Employees -Employees— Compensation of Directors and Officers.Officers”.

 

(3)Each of our directors and executive officers who is not separately identified in the above table beneficially owns less than 1% of our outstanding Common Shares (including options to purchase Common Shares held by each such party that are vested or will vest within 60 days of March 1, 2017)31, 2020) and has therefore not been separately identified.

 

(4)Includes options to purchase 1,373,783820,000 Common Shares at exercise prices ranging from $2.50$7.60 to $9.73$11.23 per share, which are vested or will become vested within 60 days of March 1, 2017.31, 2020.

 

Item 7.Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

A.A.Major Shareholders.

 

The following table sets forth, as of March 1, 2017,31, 2020, certain information with respect to the beneficial ownership of the Company’s Common Shares by each person known by the Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding Common Shares, based on information provided to us by the holders or disclosed in public filings of the shareholders with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

We determine beneficial ownership of shares under the rules of Form 20-F promulgated by the SEC and include any Common Shares over which a person possesses sole or shared voting or investment power, or the right to receive the economic benefit of ownership, or for which a person has the right to acquire any such beneficial ownership at any time within 60 days.

 

  Shares Beneficially Owned 
Name and Address Number  Percent (1) 
Formula Systems (1985) Ltd.
5 HaPlada Street
Or Yehuda 60218, Israel
  23,954,094(2)  48.9%

To the best of our knowledge, the entity listed in the above table has sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by it.

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  Shares Beneficially Owned 
Name and Address Number  Percent(1) 
Formula Systems (1985) Ltd.
5 HaPlada Street
Or Yehuda 60218, Israel
  24,029,094(2)  47.8%
Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd.
Harel House; 3 Abba Hillel Street; Ramat Gan 52118, Israel
  2,724,924(3)  5.4%

 

(1)The percentages shown are based on 49,035,95150,229,215 Common Shares outstanding (which excludes 2,328,296 Common Shares held in treasury) as of March 1, 2017.31, 2020.

 

(2)The number of Common Shares shown as owned by Formula is based on information provided to the Company by Formula as of March 1, 2017.31, 2020. Also based on information provided to the Company, Asseco beneficially owned, as of March 1, 2017, 46.3%31, 2020, Asseco held 25.6% of the outstanding share capital of Formula. As such,In addition, on October 4, 2017, Asseco may be deemed to be the beneficial ownerentered into a shareholders agreement with our Chairman of the Board, under which agreement Asseco has been granted an irrecoverable proxy to vote an additional 1,971,973 ordinary shares of Formula, thereby effectively giving Asseco beneficial ownership (voting power) over an aggregate 23,954,094 Common Shares held directly by Formula.of 38.5% of Formula’s outstanding ordinary shares. The address of Asseco is Olchowa 14 35-322 Rzeszow, Poland.

 

 (3)Based on an amended Statement of Beneficial Ownership on Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on January 23, 2020. Of the2,724,924 Common Shares reported as beneficially owned by Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd., or Harel, (i)2,615,058 Common Shares are held for members of the public through, among others, provident funds and/or mutual funds and/or pension funds and/or insurance policies and/or exchange traded funds, which are managed by subsidiaries of Harel, each of which subsidiaries operates under independent management and makes independent voting and investment decisions, (ii)41,188 Common Shares are held by third-party client accounts managed by subsidiaries of Harel as portfolio managers, each of which subsidiaries operates under independent management and makes independent investment decisions and has no voting power in the securities held in such client accounts, and (iii) 68,678 Common Shares are beneficially held for Harel’s own account.. Harel does not admit beneficial ownership of more than those 68,678 Common Shares.

To the best of our knowledge, each of the entities listed in the above table has sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by it, except to the extent described above.

Significant changes in holdings of major shareholders

 

From time to time, Formula has increased its beneficial shareholding in our Company through market purchases of additional Common Shares.

As Formula’s beneficial ownership of May 2013, Formula owned 22,369,035our Common Shares or 57.2%constituted 48.9% of allour outstanding Common Shares. That ownership was diluted down to 47.7%share capital as of April 1, 2014, primarily as a resultthe start of our issuance of 6,497,500 Common Shares pursuant to our public offering in November 2013. From August 21, 2014 through September 16, 2014, Formula purchased an aggregate of 736,862 Common Shares in broker-initiated and private transactions for an aggregate purchase price of $5.8 million, following which Formula owned 23,105,897 Common Shares, or 48.5% of all outstanding Common Shares. From September 17, 2014 through December 26, 2014, Formula purchased an aggregate of 808,940 Common Shares in broker-initiated and private transactions, for an aggregate purchase price of $6.1 million, thereby increasing its beneficial ownership percentage back up to 50.2%.2017. That beneficial ownership has been diluted down once again to 48.9%47.8% as of March 1, 2017,31, 2020, primarily as a result of various minor issuances related to stock options exercise of Common Shares that we have made.

 

Yelin Lapidot Holdings and its affiliates, which were formerlyHarel reported in an initial Schedule 13G filed on December 20, 2018 that it had become a 5%significant shareholder of our company, hadhaving acquired 2,209,7482,534,268 Common Shares, constituting 5.1% of our Common Shares in October 2013, and then acquired additional shares such that they held 2,625,007outstanding Common Shares, as of the endDecember 15, 2018. Its holdings have increased slightly to 5.1% and then 5.4% of 2015. They have subsequently sold shares and reduced their holdings to 2,381,426our outstanding Common Shares, as of December 31, 2016, thereby reducing their ownership2018 and 2019, as reported in its amended Schedule 13G filed on January 29, 2019 and January 23, 2020, respectively.

Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd., or Clal, reported in an initial Schedule 13G filed on March 26, 2018 that it had become a significant shareholder, holding 2,719,363 Common Shares, constituting 5.2% of our outstanding Common Shares, belowas of March 16, 2018. Its holdings then increased to 3,254,525 Common Shares (exclusive of shares held by its affiliate, Epsilon), constituting 6.5% of our outstanding Common Shares, as of December 31, 2018, as reported in its amended Schedule 13G filed on February 14, 2019. Clal reported in February 2020 that as of December 31, 2019, it no longer held 5% or more of our outstanding Common Shares.


Our former significant shareholder, Yelin Lapidot Holdings Management Ltd. and its affiliates, collectively referred to as Yelin, held 2,765,424 Common Shares, or 5.6% of our outstanding Common Shares, as of December 31, 2017 (based on Amendment No. 41 to the Schedule 13G filed by Yelin, Lapidot Provident Funds Management Ltd., Yelin Lapidot Mutual Funds Management Ltd., Yair Lapidot and Dov Yelin on January 31, 2018). Subsequently, however, Yelin reported in Amendment No. 2 to Schedule 13G, filed on February 8, 2017).11, 2019, that its beneficial ownership decreased once again below 5% as of December 31, 2018.

Our former significant shareholder, Migdal Insurance & Financial Holdings Ltd., or Migdal, acquired 2,468,836 Common Shares, or 5.0%, as of July 12, 2017, based on its Schedule 13G filed on August 28, 2017, thereby becoming a significant shareholder of our company. Since that time, its ownership fell slightly below 5%, then rose again above 5% and then fell again below 5% (2,418,367 Common Shares, or 4.86% of outstanding Common Shares), as of December 31, 2018, based on a Statement of Beneficial Ownership on Schedule 13G filed by Migdal with the SEC on February 14, 2019.

 

Voting rights of major shareholders

 

The major shareholders disclosed above do not have different voting rights than other shareholders with respect to the Common Shares that they hold.

Holders of record

 

As of March 1, 201731, 2020, there were 6553 holders of record of our Common Shares, including 4537 holders of record with addresses in the United States who held a total of 41,372,23242,567,394 Common Shares (out of which 41,363,233Common42,559,112 Common Shares are held of record by CEDE & Co), representing approximately 84.4%84.7% of our issued and outstanding Common Shares. The number of record holders in the United States is not representative of the number of beneficial holders, nor is it representative of where such beneficial holders are resident, because many of these Common Shares were held of record by nominees (including CEDE & Co., as nominee for a large number of banks, brokers, institutions and underlying beneficial holders of our Common Shares).In particular, Formula, which held (asas of March 1, 201731, 2020 (in part as a record holder and in part as an underlying beneficial holder) 23,954,09424,029,094 Common Shares, representing 48.9%47.8% of our issued and outstanding shares, is not a United States company.

 

Control of the Company

 

Based on Formula’s beneficial ownership of 48.9%47.8% of the outstanding Common Shares of the Company (as of March 1, 2017)31, 2020), and based on Asseco’s beneficial ownership of 46.3%38.5% of the outstanding share capital of Formula (also as of that date), both Formula and Asseco may be deemed to control the Company. We are unaware of any arrangements the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change of control of the Company.

 

B.66

B.Related Party Transactions

 

Registration Rights Agreement with Major Shareholders

 

The description of the Registration Rights Agreement set forth in Item 10.C “Material Contracts” is incorporated by reference herein.

 

Fees Paid to Major Shareholder for Board Service of its Affiliate

 

We paid to our major shareholder, Formula, approximately $23,000$25,000 in respect of our share of the director fees of Guy Bernstein, our Chairman, for the year ended December 31, 2016.2019. Mr. Bernstein serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Formula and a director of Asseco. Formula directly owns (as of March 1, 2017)31, 2020) approximately 48.9%47.8% of our currently outstanding Common Shares.

 

Additional Agreements and Transactions with Affiliated Companies of Formula and Asseco

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, we paid to affiliated companies of Formula approximately $6.1$6.0 million, in the aggregate, pursuant to services agreements that we have in place with those companies under which we receive services. In 2016,2019, we also purchased from those affiliated companies an aggregate of approximately $1.0$0.2 million of hardware and software. Please see Note 1314 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 of this annual report for further information.


Services Obtained fromIn addition, during 2019, Sapiens Poland performed services as a sub-contractor on behalf of Asseco for clients of Asseco in a total amount of approximately $3.4 million. For historical reasons, Asseco issues invoices to those clients and then Sapiens in turn invoices Asseco on a back-to-back basis (with no margin to Asseco).

 

During 2016, Asseco provided back-office services, professional servicesFurther, we paid to Formula approximately $0.1 million in respect of our share of its D&O insurance for each of our directors and fixed assets toofficers for the period between December 18, 2018 and February 28, 2019, and an additional $0.1 million in respect of our wholly-owned subsidiary, Insseco, in an amount totaling approximately $1.9 million.  Please see Note 13 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Item 18share of this annual reportthat D&O insurance for further information.the period between March 1, 2019 and February 28. 2020

 

Trade Payables and Receivables

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had trade payables balances due to, and trade receivables balances due from, our related parties in amounts of approximately $1.3 millionand $1.4$1.6 million and $0.7 million, respectively.

 

C.C.Interests of Experts and Counsel.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 8.Financial Information

 

A.A.Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information.

 

Financial Statements

 

See the Consolidated Financial Statementsour consolidated financial statements and related notes in Item 18.

 

Export Sales

 

In 2016, 86.5%2019, 91.6% of our revenues originated from customers located outside of Israel.

For information on our revenues breakdown by geographic region for the past three years, see Item 5.A, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects— Operating Results— Comparison of the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019— Revenues by geographical region” in this annual report, as well as Item 5.A, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects— Operating Results— Comparison of the years ended December 31, 20142017 and 2015—2018— Revenues by geographical region”. in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, which we filed with the SEC on March 27, 2019.

67

 

Legal Proceedings

 

Previously, we entered into a software development project agreement with a significant customer to customize, enhance and implement a new product. We have recently received a letter from that customer, in which the customer alleged that we have materially breached our agreement with the customer. After carefully examining the customer’s allegations, we informed the customer that we have not materially breached any of our obligations under the agreement and that the customer itself has materially breached the agreement. Work on the project has been halted due to the dispute. The parties are currently engaged in discussions relating to the foregoing.

In addition to the foregoing, fromFrom time to time, we are a party to various non-material legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. Currently, there are no such legal proceedings pending or threatened against us that we believe may have a significant effect on our financial condition or profitability.

 

Dividend Policy

 

Upon review of our consolidated results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, future prospects and other factors, on January 15, 2013, April 20, 2015 and March 31, 2016,In August 2019, our Board of Directors determined, subject to shareholder approval, to declare and pay one-time cash interim dividends of $0.15, $0.15 and $0.20 per Common Share (or $5.8 million, $7.2 million and $10 million, in the aggregate, respectively), which were paid on February 22, 2013 and commencing on June 1, 2015 and June 1, 2016, respectively.

We do not haveadopted a dividend policy. However,Under that policy, on an annual basis,after publishing our annual audited consolidated financial statements in our annual report on Form 20-F, our Board of Directors will determine, on an annual basis, as to whether we will payannounce the distribution of a cash dividend in the upcoming year. Such determination will be dependent uponan amount of up to 40% of our financial condition, recent and prospective results of operations, and cash requirements, among other relevant factors, and will be subject to the requirements of Curaçao law and the Articles. If our company continues to be profitable, ourannual net profit (on a non-GAAP basis).  Our Board of Directors may change, whether as a result of a one-time decision or a change in policy, the rate of dividend distributions and/or decide not to distribute additionala dividend. The distribution of dividends will be made in compliance withCayman Islands law, the Memorandum and the Articles, as well as our contractual obligations. Concurrently with our adoption of this new dividend policy, we declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share, or $11 million, in the future as well. aggregate, which was paid in September 2019.


For more information about distribution of dividends, the related requirements of CuraçaoCayman Islands law and various tax implications, see Item 10, “Additionalplease see: “Item 10. Additional Information— Memorandum and Articles of Association;” Item 10, “AdditionalAssociation”; “Item 10. Additional InformationExchange Controls,”Controls”; and Item 10, “Additional“Item 10. Additional Information— Taxation.”

 

B.B.Significant Changes

 

No significant change, other than as otherwise described in this annual report, has occurred in our operations since the date of our consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.

 

ITEM 9.THE OFFER AND LISTING

 

A. and C.A.Offer and Listing Details

The Company’s Common Shares are listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market and on the TASE under the symbol “SPNS”.

NASDAQ:

The table below sets forth the high and low closing prices (in US dollars) for our Common Shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market (i) on an annual basis for the years 2012 through 2016, and the year 2017 (through March 14, 2017), and (ii) on a quarterly basis for 2015, 2016 and the first quarter of 2017 (through March 14, 2017):

  HIGH  LOW 
2012 (Annual)  4.33   3.20 
2013 (Annual)  7.77   3.99 
2014 (Annual)  8.46   6.73 
2015 (Annual)  12.64   6.42 
2016 (Annual)  15.64   9.47 
2017 (through March 14, 2017)  15.45   13.07 
         
2015        
First Quarter  8.33   6.42 
Second Quarter  10.38   8.33 
Third Quarter  12.64   10.22 
Fourth Quarter  11.86   9.71 
         
2016        
First Quarter  12.12   9.47 
Second Quarter  12.65   10.99 
Third Quarter  14.12   11.74 
Fourth Quarter  15.64   12.58 
         
2017        
First Quarter (through March 14, 2017)  15.45   13.07 

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The table below sets forth the high and low closing prices (in US dollars) for our Common Shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market on a monthly basis during the most recent six-month period.

  HIGH  LOW 
September  2016  13.73   12.77 
October  2016  13.63   12.58 
November  2016  14.93   12.93 
December  2016  15.64   14.15 
January  2017  14.94   13.07 
February  2017  15.45   13.47 
March 2017 (through March 14, 2017)  14.44   13.12 

The closing price of our Common Shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market on March 14, 2017, being the last practicable date prior to publication of this annual report, was $13.12.

TASE:

Our Common Shares began trading on the TASE effective March 6, 2003. Under current Israeli law, the Company satisfies its reporting obligations in Israel by furnishing to the applicable Israeli regulators those reports that the Company is required to file or submit in the United States. The table below sets forth the high and low closing prices, in US dollars, for our Common Shares on the TASE on an annual basis for the years 2012 through 2016 and the year 2017 (through March 14, 2017), and on a quarterly basis for the years 2015 and 2016, and for the first quarter of 2017 (through March 14, 2017). The conversion from NIS into US dollars for the following two tables is based on the average monthly, quarterly or yearly representative rate of exchange published by the Bank of Israel for the month, quarter or year (as appropriate) in which such high or low closing price per share was recorded.

  HIGH  LOW 
2012 (Annual)  4.24   3.05 
2013 (Annual)  7.90   4.10 
2014 (Annual)  8.37   6.66 
2015 (Annual)  12.70   6.48 
2016 (Annual)  15.34   9.20 
2017 (through March 14, 2017)  15.27   12.85 
         
2015        
First Quarter  8.23   6.48 
Second Quarter  10.00   8.24 
Third Quarter  12.70   10.10 
Fourth Quarter  11.91   9.77 
         
2016        
First Quarter  11.77   9.20 
Second Quarter  12.50   11.18 
Third Quarter  13.87   11.78 
Fourth Quarter  15.34   12.78 
         
2017        
First Quarter (through March 14, 2017)  15.27   12.85 

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The table below sets forth the high and low closing prices, in US dollars, for our Common Shares on the TASE during the most recent six-month period:

  HIGH  LOW 
September 2016  13.81   12.96 
October 2016  13.82   12.78 
November 2016  15.2   12.90 
December  2016  15.34   14.19 
January  2017  15.01   12.85 
February  2017  15.27   13.72 
March 2017 (through March 14, 2017)  14.53   13.05 

The closing price of our Common Shares on the TASE on March 14, 2017, being the last practicable date prior to publication of this annual report, was $13.12 (as converted from NIS based on the closing representative exchange rate as of March 14, 2017).

B.Plan of Distribution.

Not applicable.

C.Markets. and Markets

 

Our Common Shares are listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market and on the TASE under the symbol “SPNS”.

  

The closing price of our Common Shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market on March 31, 2020, being the latest practicable date prior to publication of this annual report, was $19.02.

The closing price of our Common Shares on the TASE on March 31, 2020, being the latest practicable date prior to publication of this annual report, was NIS 68.90, or $19.33 (as converted from NIS based on the NIS-U.S. dollar representative exchange rate reported by the Bank of Israel as of March 31, 2020).

Under current Israeli law, we satisfy our reporting obligations in Israel by furnishing to the applicable Israeli regulators those reports that we are required to file or submit in the United States.

B.D.Selling Shareholders.Plan of Distribution.

 

Not applicable.

  

D.E.Dilution.Selling Shareholders.

 

Not applicable.

 

E.F.Expenses of the Issue.Dilution.

 

Not applicable.

 

F.Expenses of the Issue.

Not applicable.

Item 10.Additional Information

 

A.A.Share Capital.

 

Not applicable.

 

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B.B.Memorandum and Articles of Association.

 

Migration of Legal Domicile from Curaçao to Cayman Islands

On August 21, 2018, we completed the process of migrating the legal domicile of our company from Curaçao to the Cayman Islands. That migration and the accompanying adoption of charter documents suitable for a Cayman Islands exempted company under the Companies Law (as revised) of the Cayman Islands— our Memorandum and our Articles— required shareholder approval under Curaçao law, which approval was obtained at our annual general meeting of shareholders that was held on November 29, 2017. As part of our completion of the migration, we received (i) a ruling that the migration will not constitute a taxable event for our shareholders under Israeli tax law (being the jurisdiction of our residency for tax purposes) and (ii) approval that the migration will not constitute a taxable event for our shareholders under Curacao tax law.

We have provided herein descriptions related to our status as a Cayman Islands company. Copies of our Memorandum and Articles, which serve as exhibits to this annual report, were annexed asAppendix A to the proxy statement for our 2017 annual general meeting of shareholders, which was appended as Exhibit 99.1 to our Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on October 26, 2017. A table comparing certain Curacao law provisions to Cayman Islands law provisions was annexed asAppendix B to that same proxy statement.

1. Registration and Purposes.

The Company is organizedregistered and existing under the laws of Curaçao.the Cayman Islands. Its registered number is 53368.341242.

 

70

The objects and purposes of the Company, which are itemizedAs set out in Article II of our Amended ArticlesMemorandum of Association, may be summarized as follows:the objects and purpose for which the Company is established are unrestricted, and the Company has full power and authority to exercise all functions of a natural person of full capacity, including (without limitation):

 

·toTo establish, participate in or have any other interest in business enterprises concerned with the development and commercial operation of software;software

 

·toTo finance directly or indirectly the activities of the Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates;affiliates

 

·toTo borrow and to lend moneys;moneys

 

·toTo engage in the purchase and sale of securities, futures, real estate, business debts, commodities and intellectual property;property

 

·toTo undertake, conduct and promote research and development;development

 

·toTo guarantee, pledge, mortgage or otherwise encumber assets as security for the obligations of the Company or third parties; andparties

 

·toTo do all that may be useful or necessary for the attainment of the above purposes.purposes

 

2.Board of Directors.In case of a conflict of interest between the Company and one or more directors, acting either in private or ex officio, the Company shall be represented by a person appointed thereto by the General Meeting of Shareholders or the Board of Directors.

A director who knows or ought to understand that in a certain instance there is mention of a conflicting interest between the Company and him acting privately or ex officio, will timely inform the General Meeting of Shareholders or Board of Directors of such conflict of interest. No conflict of interest will be deemed to exist between the Company and one or more of its directors in case of a contract or transaction between the Company and such director(s) or the Company and any other corporation, partnership, association, or other organization in which one or more directorssuch director(s) are directors or officers, or have a financial interest, solely for that reason, or solely because the director issuch director(s) are present or participates in the meeting of the Board of Directors or Committee thereof which authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because his or their votes are counted for such purpose if : (a) the material facts of the interest or relationship are disclosed or are known to the Board of Directors or the Committee, and the Board of Directors or Committee in good faith authorizes the relevant contract or transaction by the affirmative votes of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though such disinterested directors may be less than a quorum, or (b) the material facts of the interest or relationship are disclosed or are known to the shareholders entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of such shareholders; or (c) the contract or transaction is fair as to the Company as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the Board of Directors, a Committee thereof or the shareholders. Interestedshareholders and, for such purposes, interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors or of a Committee that authorizes thesuch contract or transaction. The Articles provide that the directors shall receive such compensation as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.  Members of the Board of Directors have the power to vote compensation to themselves, even if they lack an independent quorum, subject to prior approval of the range of their compensation by the Company’s General Meeting of Shareholders.quorum.

 


The Articles do not require directors to resign at a certain age or to purchase a certain number of Common Shares. The Articles do not grant borrowing powers to directors; nor do they require directors to resign at a certain age or to purchase a certain number of Common Shares.

 

3.Rights and Preferences.

The Company has only one class of shares of common stock authorized and outstanding— the Common Shares, currently outstanding.Shares. All previous issuances of preferred shares have been converted into Common Shares. The rights and preferences of the holders of Common Shares are summarized below. The Articles authorize a class of undefined preferred shares (which we refer to as the Blank Preferred Shares). There are no rights associated with the Blank Preferred Shares and none have been issued. The Board of Directors shall specify the rights that shall be associated with the Blank Preferred Shares prior to their issuance, including dividend rights and voting rights.

 

(a)Common Shares

 

Holders of the Common Shares are entitled to one vote for each whole share on all matters to be voted upon by shareholders, including the election of directors. Holders of the Common Shares do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of directors. All Common Shares are equal to each other with respect to liquidation and dividend rights. Holders of the Common Shares are entitled to receive dividends subject to shareholder approval, out of funds legally available under Curaçao law.Cayman Islands law, if and when declared by the Board of Directors in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles. See “Dividend Policy” below. In the event of the liquidation of the Company, all assets available for distribution to the holders of the Common Shares are distributable among them according to their respective holdings, subject to the preferences of any shares having a preference upon liquidation that may be then outstanding.holdings. Holders of the Common Shares have no preemptive rights to purchase any additional, unissued Common Shares. The foregoing summary of the Common Shares does not purport to be complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by, the provisions of the Memorandum and Articles.

 

 71(b)

(b)Dividend Policy

 

We do not haveIn August 2019, our Board of Directors adopted a dividend policy. However,Under that policy, on an annual basis,after publishing our annual audited consolidated financial statements in our annual report on Form 20-F, our Board of Directors will determine, on an annual basis, as to whether we will payannounce the distribution of a cash dividend in the upcoming year. Such determination will be dependent upon various financial criteria, among other relevant factors. Ifan amount of up to 40% of our company continues to be profitable, ourannual net profit (on a non-GAAP basis).  Our Board of Directors may change, whether as a result of a one-time decision or a change in policy, the rate of dividend distributions and/or decide not to distribute a dividend,dividend. The distribution of dividends will be made in compliance withCayman Islands law, the Memorandum and the Articles, as it has done in the recent past.well as our contractual obligations. Please see “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy” above for further information concerning the factors that help to determine whether and under what circumstances we may distribute dividends.our dividend policy.

 

Our ability to pay dividends is subject to the limitations of the Curaçao Civil CodeCompanies Law (as revised) of the Cayman Islands, the Memorandum and the Articles. In direct connection with the approval of our annual accounts, the general meetingBoard of our shareholdersDirectors shall decide on the distribution of the profits. Profits can either be reserved or distributed to the shareholders in accordance with the Articles. Our Board of Directors has the right to reserve the profits at its discretion. If such reservation has been made by our Board of Directors, the general meeting of shareholders is not authorized to make a distribution out of the reserved part of the profits, unless the Board of Directors has first recommended in writing to the general meeting that such distribution out of the reserved profits can be made and the general meeting has adopted a resolution to that effect. Our Board of Directors may at any time resolve to make any interim distributions, if justified by the anticipated profits of our company as an advanced payment of the dividend expected to be declared by the general meeting.company. The Curaçao Civil CodeCompanies Law and the Articles further provide that a (interim) distribution of dividends can only occur if, at the moment of distribution, the equity of our company equals at least the nominal capital of our company and, as a result of the distribution, it will not fall below the nominal capital.  Nominal capital is the sum of the par values of all of the issued shares of our company’s capital stock at any moment in time.

 

(c)The Blank Preferred Shares

There are no preferences or any rights whatsoever associated with the Blank Preferred Shares. These shares are unissued and are not owned by any of the current shareholders of the Company. Any issuance of these preferred shares is solely within the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company has undertaken toward the TASE that so long as its Common Shares are listed for trading on the TASE, the Company shall not issue or grant any shares of a different class of shares than those that are listed for trading on the TASE. This undertaking does not apply to Preferred Shares as defined in Section 46B(b) of the Israel Securities Law, on the condition that such Preferred Shares are issued in accordance with the conditions set forth in Section 46A(1) therein.

4.Changing the Rights of the Shareholders.

The general meeting of shareholders decides upon any change in the Memorandum and/or Articles. Provided that no Blank Preferred Shares have been issued, aA resolution to amend the Memorandum and/or Articles generally requires the approval of two-thirds of the absolutevoting rights of shares present (in person or by proxy) and voting at a meeting of shareholders called for the purpose of approving such an amendment. An increase in our authorized share capital, however, merely requires approval by at least a simple majority of all shares outstanding and entitled to vote.the votes actually cast at a meeting of shareholders at which a quorum is present.

75

 

5.General Meetings.

At least one general meeting of shareholders must be held each year. Pursuant to the Articles, general meetings mustmay be held in Curaçao.or outside of the Cayman Islands. Special general meetings of shareholders may be called at any time by the Chairman of the Board, or bythe Co-Chairman, the Board of Directors uponor the holders of Common Shares representing at least ten percent (10%) of the total voting rights attached to the issued and outstanding Common Shares who shall have requisitioned the Board of Directors to convene such meeting to be held within a period of ten weeks after such request has been made. Written notice of no less than 12 nor more than 60 days’ written noticecalendar days must be provided to the Company’s shareholders.shareholders prior to any general meeting. Every shareholder has the right to attend any meeting of shareholders in person or by proxy and to address the meeting. No action may be taken at any meeting of shareholders unless a quorum consisting of holders of at least one-half of the shares outstanding and entitled to vote are present at the meeting in person or by proxy. If a quorum is not present at the originally-called shareholder meeting, a second shareholder meeting, is held within two months. At that second meeting, valid resolutions may be adopted with respect to any matter stated in the notice of the original meeting and also in the notice of such second meeting or which by law is required to be brought before the shareholders (subject to certain exceptions), despite the absence of a quorum.

 

6.Limitations to Own Securities.

The Articles contain no limits on the right to own securities.

 

72

7.Change of Control.

The Articles contain no provisions that would prevent or delay a change of control of the Company.

For more information regarding provisions of the Cayman Companies Law that may impact a change of control of the Company, please see the table that was annexed asAppendix B to the proxy statement for our 2017 annual general meeting of shareholders, which was appended as Exhibit 99.1 to our Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on October 26, 2017.

8. Disclosure of Ownership.

The Articles contain no provisions requiring a shareholder to disclose his or her interest at a certain time; however, holders of our shares are subject to the reporting provisions of the SEC. In addition, the Companies Law (as revised) of the Cayman Islands contains provisions requiring the disclosure of certain beneficial interests; however, such provisions do not apply to the Company, its shareholders or ultimate beneficial owners for so long as the Company’s Common Shares are listed on an “approved stock exchange” (as defined in the Companies Law (as revised) of the Cayman Islands, which currently includes NASDAQ and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange).

 

C.C.Material Contracts

 

We are not party to any material contract within the two years prior to the date of this annual report, other than contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, or as otherwise described below:

 

Share Purchase Agreement for AcquisitionDeed of StoneRiverTrust in Favor of Series B Debenture Holders

 

In connection with our Israeli public offering and private placement of NIS 280 million (approximately US $79.2 million) principal amount of our Series B Debentures, in the first quarter ofaggregate, in September 2017 our company(which debentures are traded on the TASE), we entered into a share purchase agreementdeed of trust with StoneRiver Group L.P., or the Seller, and StoneRiver, Inc., or StoneRiver, for the acquisition of alla trustee in favor of the issueddebenture holders. In the deed of trust, we have agreed to repay the principal amount of the debentures in eight equal payments that will be paid once a year on January 1 of each of the years 2019 through 2026 (included). We made the first such principal payment on January 1, 2019. The outstanding principal amount bears interest at an annual rate of 3.37%, payable in half-yearly payments on January 1 and outstanding share capitalJuly 1 of StoneRiver. We consummatedeach of the acquisition lateryears 2018 through 2026 (included). The principal and interest are payable in NIS, subject to adjustment in accordance with fluctuations in the first quarterexchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the NIS.


Under the deed of 2017. StoneRivertrust, we have undertaken to maintain a number of conditions and limitations on the manner in which we can operate our business, including limitations on our ability to undergo a change of control, distribute dividends, incur a floating charge on our assets, or undergo an asset sale or other change that results in a fundamental change in our operations. The deed of trust also requires us to comply with certain financial covenants, as described below. The deed of trust furthermore provides for an upwards adjustment in the interest rate payable under the debentures in the event that our debentures’ rating is downgraded below a Denver, Colorado- based providercertain level. A breach of technology solutions and servicesthe financial covenants for more than two successive quarters or a substantial downgrade in the rating of the debentures (below BBB-) could result in the acceleration of our obligation to repay the insurance industry.debentures.

 

The acquisition consideration is approximately $100deed of trust includes the following provisions:

A negative pledge, subject to certain exceptions

A covenant not to distribute dividends unless (i) our shareholders’ equity (not including minority interests) shall not be less than $160 million, (ii) our net financial indebtedness (financial indebtedness net of cash, marketable securities, deposits and other liquid financial instruments) does not exceed 65% of net CAP (which is defined as financial indebtedness, net, plus shareholders equity, including minority interest), (iii) the amount of the dividend does not exceed our profits for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the first three quarters of the year ended December 31, 2017, plus 75% of our profits as of September 1, 2017 and up to the date of distribution, and (iv) no event of default shall have occurred

Financial covenants, including (i) the equity attributable to the shareholders of Sapiens (not including minority interests), as reported in our annual or quarterly financial statements, will not be less than $120 million, and (ii) Sapiens’ net financial indebtedness (financial indebtedness net of cash, marketable securities, deposits and other liquid financial instruments) shall not exceed 65% of net CAP (which is defined as financial indebtedness, net, plus shareholders equity, including minority interest)

As of December 31, 2019, we were in cash, subject to certain adjustments based on working capital, transaction expenses, unpaid debt and certain litigation matters.compliance with the foregoing financial covenants.

 

Immediately priorWe also agreed to closing, we purchased a representations and warranties insurance policy covering certain indemnifiable damages under the agreement, which we refer to as the Insurance. The Insurance provides for coverage of $12,500,000 in the aggregate and its term is in general three years (except with respect to certain fundamental representations and warranties, as to which the term of the Insurance is six years).  In addition, two escrow funds were established by StoneRiver, for the purpose of enabling the indemnification of our company for certain damages that are not fully recovered under the Insurance: (i) an escrow fund in the amount of $500,000 for a period of one year and (ii) an escrow fund in the amount of $2,000,000 for a period of 18 months.

HSBC Term Loan Credit Agreement

In the first quarter of 2017, we (via our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sapiens Americas Corporation, or the Borrower) entered into a secured credit agreement, or the Credit Agreement, with HSBC Bank USA, National Association, or the Lender, in connection with, and as financing for, our acquisition of StoneRiver. Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, our company borrowed $40 million, or the Bank Loan, for a five-year term. The Bank Loan will mature in March 2022 and is payable in equal consecutive quarterly principal installments of principal and accrued interest. The Borrower is entitled to prepay the Bank Loan at any time (on any interest payment date) without penalty upon notice to the Lender. The Bank Loan bears interest at the rate of LIBOR plus 1.85%.

The repayment of the Bank Loan is secured by first priority liens over (i) substantially all assets of the Borrower and its US subsidiaries and (ii) the shares of the Borrower held by Sapiens International Corporation B.V. Certain affiliated entities of the Borrower have guaranteed the repayment of the Bank Loan. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and negative covenants, which include, without limitation, restrictions on indebtedness, liens, investments, and certain dispositions with respect to the property secured by the lien. The Credit Agreement also contains customarystandard events of default that entitleunder the Lender to cause any or alldeed of our company's indebtedness to become immediately due and payable and to foreclose ontrust, together with the lien, and includes customary grace periods before certain events are deemedfollowing specific events of default.default (among others):

 

Share Purchase Agreement for Acquisition of Insseco

In the third quarter of 2015, our company (via our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd.) entered into a share purchase agreement with Asseco for the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Insseco. We consummated the acquisition later in the third quarter of 2015. Insseco is a newly established company into which Asseco had transferred all of its Polish insurance employees, certain fixed assets, certain customer contracts and certain software, including intellectual property rights. Insseco has a team of approximately 140 insurance professionals and an established presence in the Polish insurance market, and services major insurance customers in Poland, including top tier insurance carriers.

 73Cross default, including following an immediate repayment initiated in relation to other indebtedness (other than non-recourse debt) in an amount that exceeds 5% of our total balance sheet
 
Suspension of trading of the debentures on the TASE over a period of 60 days, or the delisting of the debentures from the TASE
Failure to have the debentures rated over a period of 60 days;
If the rating of the debentures is less than BBB- by Standard and Poors Maalot or less than Baa3 by Midroog Ltd. or drops below an equivalent rating of another rating agency (as of July 2019, Standard and Poors Maalot has affirmed a rating of ilA+ for the debentures)
If there is a change in control without consent of the rating agency (a change of control is deemed to occur if Formula ceases the be the controlling shareholder of our company, whether directly or indirectly. Formula will be considered a controlling shareholder for so long as it continues to hold at least 25% of the means of control of our company (within the meaning of the Israeli Securities Law) and there is no other person or entity holding a higher percentage. To the extent that Formula holds such controlling interest jointly with others, it will be deemed to remain our controlling shareholder if it maintains the highest percentage ownership among such other shareholders)
The existence and continuation of a bankruptcy event involving our company, or the liquidation of our company or writing off of our assets

 


Pursuant to the agreement, we paid the acquisition consideration in cash, consisting of 34.3 million Polish Zloty, or approximately $9.1 million. In addition, Asseco may be entitled to upside or downside performance-based payments relating to achievements of revenue goals and profitability over the next five years. If the aggregate revenues generated by Insseco from its activity from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2020 exceed 90.0 million Polish Zloty, or approximately $23.8 million, Asseco will be entitled to receive additional amounts ranging from 3% to 15% of the excess amount of the respective revenues. If the aggregate revenues generated by Insseco for the period from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018 are below 84.0 million Polish Zloty or $22.2 million, Asseco will pay us an amount equal to 35% of the deficiency below such amount. In addition, the amounts payable to Asseco may be adjusted upwards or downwards as a result of changes in the profitability of a specific account that we acquired as part of the acquisition.

The estimated fair value of the contingent payments that depend on the revenue and profitability goals pursuant to the share purchase agreement was $1.0 million as of December 31, 2016.

Our failure to comply with the above-described financial covenants for two consecutive quarters 
There has been a material adverse change in the business of our company compared to the position of our company shortly before the issuance of the debentures and there is a material concern that we will not be able to pay our obligations under the debentures on time
If we distribute a dividend contrary to the above-described limitations on dividends
Breach of our undertakings regarding the issuance of additional Series B Debentures
The sale of 25% or more of our assets, or a change in the main sphere of our activity as a company
Failure to comply with the negative pledge covenant

 

Registration Rights Agreement

 

In connection with our acquisitions of each of IDIT and FIS, which were consummated in the third quarter of 2011, we granted the shareholders of IDIT (or the IDIT Selling Shareholders), the shareholders of FIS (or the FIS Selling Shareholders, to which we refer, together with the IDIT Selling Shareholders, as the Holders) and Formula certain registration rights under a Registration Rights Agreement. Under the Registration Rights Agreement, the Holders and Formula are entitled to piggyback registration rights in connection with any registration statement that we file (subject to customary exceptions). The Holders also agreed to execute a lock-up agreement if requested by the representative of the underwriters in any underwritten offering. Based on information that we have received from our transfer agent, we do not believe that the IDIT Selling Shareholders and the FIS Selling Shareholders still hold a significant number of Common Shares that are entitled to the foregoing registration rights under the Registration Rights Agreement as of the current time.

 

D.D.Exchange Controls

 

Although thereThere are Curaçao laws which may impose foreignno exchange controls oncontrol or currency regulations in the Company and mayCayman Islands that would affect the payment of dividends, interest or other payments to non-resident holders of the Company’s securities, including the Common Shares, the Company has been granted an exemption from such foreign exchange control regulations by the Central Bank of Curaçao.Shares. Other jurisdictions in which the Company conducts operations may have various currency or exchange controls. In addition, the Company is subject to the risk of changes in political conditions or economic policies which could result in new or additional currency or exchange controls or other restrictions being imposed on the operations of the Company. As to the Company’s securities, CuraçaoCayman Islands law and the Memorandum and Articles impose no limitations on the right of non-resident or foreign owners to hold or vote such securities.

 

E.E.Taxation

 

Israeli Taxation Considerations for Our Shareholders

 

The following is a short summary of the material provisions of the tax environment to which shareholders may be subject. This summary is based on the current provisions of tax law. To the extent that the discussion is based on new tax legislation that has not been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, we cannot assure you that the views expressed in the discussion will be accepted by the appropriate tax authorities or the courts.

 

The summary does not address all of the tax consequences that may be relevant to all purchasers of our Common Shares in light of each purchaser’s particular circumstances and specific tax treatment. For example, the summary below does not address the tax treatment of residents of Israel and traders in securities who are subject to specific tax regimes. As individual circumstances may differ, holders of our Common Shares should consult their own tax adviser as to the United States, Israeli, Cayman Islands or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of Common Shares. The following is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and is not exhaustive of all possible tax considerations. Each individual should consult his or her own tax or legal adviser.

 

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Tax Consequences Regarding Disposition of Our Common Shares

 

Overview

Israeli law generally imposes a capital gain tax on the sale of capital assets by residents of Israel, as defined for Israeli tax purposes, and on the sale of assets located in Israel, including shares of Israeli companies, by both residents and non-residents of Israel, unless a specific exemption is available or unless a tax treaty between Israel and the seller’s country of residence provides otherwise. The Ordinance distinguishes between “Real Capital Gain” and “Inflationary Surplus”. The Inflationary Surplus is a portion of the total capital gain which is equivalent to the increase of the relevant asset’s purchase price which is attributable to the increase in the Israeli consumer price index or, in certain circumstances, a foreign currency exchange rate, between the date of purchase and the date of sale. The Real Capital Gain is the excess of the total capital gain over the Inflationary Surplus.

Capital gain

 

Israeli Resident Shareholders

As of January 1, 2006,2012, the tax rate applicable to Real Capital Gain derived by Israeli individuals from the sale of shares, which had been purchased on or after January 1, 2003, whether or not listed on a stock exchange, is 20%25%, unless such shareholder claims a deduction for interest and linkage differences expenses in connection with the purchase and holding of such shares, in which case the gain will generally be taxed at a rate of 25%30%. Additionally,However, if such shareholder is considered a Substantial Shareholder (i.e., a person who holds, directly or indirectly, alone or together with another person who collaborates with such person on a permanent basis, 10% or more of any of the company’s “means of control” (including, among other things, the right to receive profits of the company, voting rights, the right to receive the company’s liquidation proceeds and the right to appoint a director)) at the time of sale or at any time during the preceding 12-month period, such gain will be taxed at the rate of 25%30%. Individual shareholders dealing in securities in Israel are taxed at their marginal tax rates applicable to business income (up to 48%47% in 2016).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, pursuant to the Law for Change in the Tax Burden (Legislative Amendments) (Taxes), 2011, the capital gain tax rate applicable to individuals was raised from 20% to 25% from 20122018 and onwards (or from 25% to 30% if the selling individual shareholder is a Substantial Shareholder at any time during the 12-month period preceding the sale and/or claims a deduction for interest and linkage differences expenses in connection with the purchase and holding of such shares). With respect to assets (not shares that are listed on a stock exchange) purchased on or after January 1, 2003, the portion of the gain generated from the date of acquisition until December 31, 2011 will be subject to the previous capital gain tax rates (20% or 25%) and the portion of the gain generated from January 1, 2012 until the date of sale will be subject to the new tax rates (25% or 30%)thereafter).

 

Under current Israeli tax legislation, the tax rate applicable to Real Capital Gain derived by Israeli resident corporations from the sale of shares of an Israeli company is the general corporate tax rate. As described above, the corporate tax rate was 25% in2016, in 2017 the corporate tax rate is 24%, and as of 2018 the corporate tax rate will beand thereafter is 23%.

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Non-Israeli Residents Shareholders

Israeli capital gain tax is imposed on the disposal of capital assets by a non-Israeli resident if such assets are either (i) located in Israel; (ii) shares or rights to shares in an Israeli resident company; or (iii) represent, directly or indirectly, rights to assets located in Israel, unless a tax treaty between Israel and the seller’s country of residence provides otherwise. As mentioned above, Real Capital Gain is generally subject to tax at the corporate tax rate (25% in 2016, 24% in 2017 and 23%(23% in 2018 and thereafter) if generated by a company, or at the rate of 25% (for assets other than shares that are listed on stock exchange – 20% for the portion of the gain generated up to December 31, 2011) or 30% (for any asset other than shares that are listed on stock exchange – 25% with respect to the portion of the gain generated up to December 31, 2011), if generated by an individual from the sale of an asset purchased on or after January 1, 2003.individual. Individual and corporate shareholders dealing in securities in Israel are taxed at the tax rates applicable to business income (a corporate tax rate for a corporation and a marginal tax rate of up to 48%47% for an individual in 2016)2018 and thereafter).

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, shareholders who are non-Israeli residents (individuals and corporations) are generally exempt from Israeli capital gain tax on any gains derived from the sale, exchange or disposition of shares publicly traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange or on a recognized stock exchange outside of Israel, provided, among other things, that (i) such gains are not generated through a permanent establishment that the non-Israeli resident maintains in Israel, (ii) the shares were purchased after being listed on a recognized stock exchange, and (iii) with respect to shares listed on a recognized stock exchange outside of Israel, such shareholders are not subject to the Israeli Income Tax Law (Inflationary Adjustments) 5745-1985. However, non-Israeli corporations will not be entitled to the foregoing exemptions if Israeli residents (a) have a controlling interest of more than 25% in such non-Israeli corporation, or (b) are the beneficiaries of or are entitled to 25% or more of the revenues or profits of such non-Israeli corporation, whether directly or indirectly. Such exemption is not applicable to a person whose gains from selling or otherwise disposing of the shares are deemed to be business income.

 


In addition, a sale of shares may be exempt from Israeli capital gain tax under the provisions of an applicable tax treaty. For example, under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, or the U.S-Israel Treaty, the sale, exchange or disposition of shares of an Israeli company by a shareholder who is a U.S. resident (for purposes of the U.S.-Israel Treaty) holding the shares as a capital asset is exempt from Israeli capital gain tax unless either (i) the shareholder holds, directly or indirectly, shares representing 10% or more of the voting rights during any part of the 12-month period preceding such sale, exchange or disposition; (ii) the shareholder, if an individual, has been present in Israel for a period or periods of 183 days or more in the aggregate during the applicable taxable year; or (iii) the capital gain arising from such sale are attributable to a permanent establishment of the shareholder which is maintained in Israel.Israel; (iv) the capital gain arising from such sale, exchange or disposition is attributed to real estate located in Israel; (v) the capital gain arising from such sale, exchange or disposition is attributed to royalties; or (vi) the shareholder is a U.S. resident (for purposes of the U.S.-Israel Treaty) and is not holding the shares as a capital asset. In each case, the sale, exchange or disposition of such shares would be subject to Israeli tax, to the extent applicable; however, under the U.S.-Israel Treaty, a U.S. resident would be permitted to claim a credit for the Israeli tax against the U.S. federal income tax imposed with respect to the sale, exchange or disposition, subject to the limitations in U.S. laws applicable to foreign tax credits. The U.S-Israel Treaty does not provide such credit against any U.S. state or local taxes.

 

In some instances where our shareholders may be liable for Israeli tax on the sale of their ordinary shares,Common Shares, the payment of the consideration may be subject to the withholding of Israeli tax at source. Shareholders may be required to demonstrate that they are exempt from tax on their capital gains in order to avoid withholding at source at the time of sale. Specifically, in transactions involving a sale of all of the shares of an Israeli resident company, in the form of a merger or otherwise, the Israel Tax Authority may require from shareholders who are not liable for Israeli tax to sign declarations in forms specified by this authority or obtain a specific exemption from the Israel Tax Authority to confirm their status as non-Israeli resident, and, in the absence of such declarations or exemptions, may require the purchaser of the shares to withhold taxes at source.

Taxes Applicable to Dividends

 

Israeli Resident Shareholders

Israeli residents who are individuals are generally subject to Israeli income tax for dividends paid on our common shares (other than bonus shares or share dividends) at 25%, or 30% if the recipient of such dividend is a Substantial Shareholder at the time of distribution or at any time during the preceding 12-month period. However, dividends distributed from taxable income allocated and accrued during the benefits period of an Approved Enterprise or 20% with respectAE are subject to Preferred Enterprise, ifwithholding tax at the rate of 15% (if the dividend is distributed during the tax benefits period under the Investment Law or within 12 years after such period.period, except with respect to an FIC, in which case the 12 year limit does not apply) or 20% with respect to PFE. An average rate will be set in case the dividend is distributed from mixed types of income (regular and Approved/ Beneficiary/Preferred income).

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Israeli resident corporations are generally exempt from Israeli corporate tax for dividends paid on shares of Israeli resident corporations (like our common shares). However, dividends distributed from taxable income accrued during the benefits period of an Approved EnterpriseAE are subject to withholding tax at the rate of 15%, if the dividend is distributed during the tax benefits period under the Investment Law or within 12 years after such period.

Non-Israeli Resident Shareholders

Non-Israeli residents (whether individuals or corporations) are generally subject to Israeli income tax on the receipt of dividends paid on ordinary shares, like our common shares,Common Shares, at the rate of 25% or 30% (if the dividend recipient is a Substantial Shareholder at the time of distribution or at any time during the preceding 12-month period) or 15% if the dividend is distributed from income attributed to our Approved EnterpriseAE or BE, or 20% with respect to Preferred Enterprise.PFE. Such dividends are generally subject to Israeli withholding tax at a rate of 25% so long as the shares are registered with a Nominee Company (whether the recipient is a Substantial Shareholder or not), and 15% if the dividend is distributed from income attributed to an Approved EnterpriseAE or BE or 20% if the dividend is distributed from income attributed to a Preferred Enterprise,PFE, unless a reduced rate is provided under an applicable tax treaty(subjecttreaty (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority allowing for a reduced tax rate). For example, under the U.S-Israel Treaty, the maximum rate of tax withheld in Israel on dividends paid to a holder of our common shares who is a U.S. resident (for purposes of the U.S.-Israel Treaty) is 25%. However, generally, the maximum rate of withholding tax on dividends, not generated by our Approved Enterprise,AE or BE , that are paid to a U.S. corporation holding at least 10% or more of our outstanding voting capital from the start of the tax year preceding the distribution of the dividend through (and including) the distribution of the dividend, is 12.5%, provided that no more than 25% of our gross income for such preceding year consists of certain types of dividends and interest. Notwithstanding the foregoing, dividends distributed from income attributed to an Approved EnterpriseAE or BE are subject to a withholding tax rate of 15% for such a U.S. corporation shareholder, provided that the condition related to our gross income for the previous year (as set forth in the previous sentence) is met. The aforementioned rates will not apply if the dividend income was generated through a permanent establishment of the U.S. resident which is maintained in Israel. If the dividend is attributable partly to income derived from an Approved Enterprise,AE a BE, or a Preferred Enterprise,PFE, and partly to other sources of income, the withholding rate will be a blended rate reflecting the relative portions of the two types of income. U.S residents who are subject to Israeli withholding tax on a dividend may be entitled to a credit or deduction for U.S. federal income tax purposes in the amount of the taxes withheld, subject to detailed rules contained in United States tax legislation.

 


A non-Israeli resident who receives dividends from which tax was withheld is generally exempt from the obligation to file tax returns in Israel with respect to such income, provided that (i) such income was not generated from business conducted in Israel by the taxpayer, and (ii) the taxpayer has no other taxable sources of income in Israel with respect to which a tax return is required to be filed.filed and (iii) the taxpayer is not obliged to pay excess tax (as further explained below).

Excess Tax

Individuals who are subject to tax in Israel (whether any such individual is an Israeli resident or non-Israeli resident) are also subject to an additional tax at a rate of 2% on annualfor income exceeding NIS 803,520 for 2016 (and as ofa certain level. For 2017 and onwards, the additional tax will beis at a rate of 3% on annual income exceeding NIS 640,000)649,560 for 2019 (approximately $0.2 million), which amount is linked to the annual change in the Israeli consumer price index, including, but not limited to, dividends, interest and capital gain.

Estate and Gift Tax

Israeli law presently does not impose estate or gift taxes.

Cayman Islands Taxation of Investments

 

The following discussionCayman Islands currently levies no taxes on individuals or corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation, and there is a summary of certain anticipated tax consequences of an investmentno taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or estate duty or withholding tax that will be applicable to us or to any holder of our Common Shares under Curaçao tax laws, US federal income tax laws and Israeli laws. The discussion does not deal with all possible tax consequences relatingShares. There are currently no other taxes that are material to an investmentus or our shareholders levied by the Government of the Cayman Islands except for stamp duties that may be applicable on instruments executed in, or after execution brought within the jurisdiction of the Cayman Islands. No stamp duty is payable in the Common Shares. In particular, the discussion does not address the tax consequences under state, local and other (e.g., non-US, non- Curaçao, non-Israel) tax laws. Accordingly, each prospective investor should consult its tax advisor regarding the tax consequencesCayman Islands on transfers of an investmentshares of Cayman Islands exempted companies except those that hold interests in land in the Common Shares.Cayman Islands. The discussion is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F, all of which are subject to change.

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Curaçao Taxation

Under the laws of Curaçao as currently in effect, a holder of Common Shares whoCayman Islands is not a resident of, and during the taxable year has not engaged in tradeparty to any double tax treaties. There are no exchange control regulations or business through a permanent establishment in, Curaçao, should not be subject to Curaçao income tax on dividends paid with respect to the Common Shares or on gains realized during that year on sale or disposal of such shares, unless the holder of Common Shares has been a resident of Curaçaocurrency restrictions in the preceding ten years and the holder of Common Shares has a qualifying interest of at least 5% of the total issued share capital; Curaçao does not impose a withholding tax on dividends paid by the Company. Under Curaçao law, no gift or inheritance taxes should be levied if, at the time of such gift or at the time of death, the relevant holder of Common Shares was not domiciled in Curaçao.Cayman Islands. 

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

 

Subject to the limitations described herein, this discussion summarizes certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our Common Shares to a U.S. holder. A U.S. holder is a holder of our Common Shares who is:

 

·anAn individual who is a citizen or resident of the U.S. for U.S. federal income tax purposes;purposes

 

·aA corporation (or another entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized under the laws of the United States, any political subdivision thereof, or the District of Columbia;Columbia

 

·anAn estate, the income of which may be included in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source; orsource

 

·aA trust (i) if, in general, a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions or (ii) an electing trust that was in existence on August 19, 1996 and was treated as a domestic trust on that date.date

 


Unless otherwise specifically indicated, this discussion does not consider the U.S. tax consequences to a person that is not a U.S. holder (which we refer to as a non-U.S. holder) and considers only U.S. holders that will own our Common Shares as capital assets (generally, for investment).

 

This discussion is based on current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, current and proposed Treasury Regulations promulgated under the Code and administrative and judicial interpretations of the Code, all as currently in effect and all of which are subject to change, possibly with a retroactive effect. This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to any particular U.S. holder based on the U.S. holder’s particular circumstances. In particular, this discussion does not address the U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. holders who are broker-dealers, insurance companies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, grantor trusts, individual retirement and tax-deferred accounts, certain former citizens or long-term residents of the U.S., tax-exempt organizations, financial institutions , “financial service entities” or who own, directly, indirectly or constructively, 10% or more of the vote or value of the our outstanding voting shares, U.S. holders holding our Common Shares as part of a hedging, straddle or conversion transaction, U.S. holders whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, U.S. holders that acquired our Common Shares upon the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation, and U.S holders who are persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, who may be subject to special rules not discussed below.

 

Additionally, the tax treatment of persons who are, or hold our Common Shares through a partnership or other pass-through entity is not considered, nor is the possible application of U.S. federal estate or gift taxes or any aspect of state, local or non-U.S. tax laws.

 

You are advised to consult your tax advisor with respect to the specific U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of purchasing, holding or disposing of our Common Shares.

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Taxation of Distributions on Common Shares

 

Subject to the discussion below under “Tax Consequences if We Are a Passive Foreign Investment Company,” a distribution paid by us with respect to our Common Shares to a U.S. holder will be treated as dividend income to the extent that the distribution does not exceed our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

Dividends that are received by U.S. holders that are individuals, estates or trusts generally will be taxed at the rate applicable to long-term capital gains, provided those dividends meet the requirements of “qualified dividend income.” The maximum long-term capital gains rate is 20% for individuals with annual taxable income that exceeds certain thresholds. In addition, under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, higher income taxpayers must pay an additional 3.8 percent tax on net investment income to the extent certain threshold amounts of income are exceeded. See “Tax on Net Investment Income” in this Item below. For this purpose, qualified dividend income generally includes dividends paid by a foreign corporation if certain holding period and other requirements are met and either (a) the stock of the foreign corporation with respect to which the dividends are paid is “readily tradable” on an established securities market in the U.S. (e.g., the NASDAQ Capital Market) or (b) the foreign corporation is eligible for benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the U.S. which includes an information exchange program and is determined to be satisfactory by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. Dividends that fail to meet such requirements and dividends received by corporate U.S. holders are taxed at ordinary income rates. No dividend received by a U.S. holder will be a qualified dividend (i) if the U.S. holder held the Common Share with respect to which the dividend was paid for less than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date that is 60 days before the ex-dividend date with respect to such dividend, excluding for this purpose, under the rules of Code Section 246(c), any period during which the U.S. holder has an option to sell, is under a contractual obligation to sell, has made (and not closed) a short sale of, is the grantor of a deep-in-the-money or otherwise nonqualified option to buy, or has otherwise diminished its risk of loss by holding other positions with respect to, such Common Share (or substantially identical securities); or (ii) to the extent that the U.S. holder is under an obligation (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in property substantially similar or related to the Common Share with respect to which the dividend is paid. If we were to be a “passive foreign investment company” (as such term is defined in the Code), or PFIC, for any taxable year, dividends paid on our Common Shares in such year or in the following taxable year would not be qualified dividends. See the discussion below regarding our PFIC status under “Tax Consequences if We Are a Passive Foreign Investment Company.” In addition, a non-corporate U.S. holder will be able to take qualified dividend income into account in determining its deductible investment interest (which is generally limited to its net investment income) only if it elects to do so; in such case the dividend income will be taxed at ordinary income rates.

 


The amount of any distribution which exceeds the amount treated as a dividend will be treated first as a non-taxable return of capital, reducing the U.S. holder’s tax basis in our Common Shares to the extent thereof, and then as capital gain from the deemed disposition of the Common Shares. Corporate holders will not be allowed a deduction for dividends received in respect of the Common Shares.

 

Distributions of current or accumulated earnings and profits paid in foreign currency to a U.S. holder will be includible in the income of a U.S. holder in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate on the day the distribution is received. A U.S. holder that receives a foreign currency distribution and converts the foreign currency into U.S. dollars subsequent to receipt may have foreign exchange gain or loss based on any appreciation or depreciation in the value of the foreign currency against the U.S. dollar, which will generally be U.S. source ordinary income or loss.

Taxation of the Disposition of Common Shares

 

Subject to the discussion below under “Tax Consequences if We Are a Passive Foreign Investment Company,” upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of our Common Shares, a U.S. holder will recognize capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on the disposition and the U.S. holder’s tax basis in our Common Shares. The gain or loss recognized on the disposition of the Common Shares will be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. holder held the Common Shares for more than one year at the time of the disposition and would be eligible for a reduced rate of taxation for certain non-corporate U.S. holders. The maximum long-term capital gains rate is 20% for individuals with annual taxable income that exceeds certain thresholds. In addition, under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, higher income taxpayers must pay an additional 3.8 percent tax on net investment income to the extent certain threshold amounts of income are exceeded. See “Tax on Net Investment Income” in this Item below. Capital gain from the sale, exchange or other disposition of Common Shares held for one year or less is short-term capital gain and taxed as ordinary income. Gain or loss recognized by a U.S. holder on a sale, exchange or other disposition of our Common Shares generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to certain limitations.

 

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A U.S. holder that uses the cash method of accounting calculates the dollar value of the proceeds received on the sale as of the date that the sale settles. However, a U.S. holder that uses the accrual method of accounting is required to calculate the value of the proceeds of the sale as of the trade date and may therefore realize foreign currency gain or loss. A U.S. holder that uses the accrual method may avoid realizing foreign currency gain or loss by electing to use the settlement date to determine the proceeds of sale for purposes of calculating the foreign currency gain or loss. In addition, a U.S. holder that receives foreign currency upon disposition of its Common Shares and converts the foreign currency into dollars after the settlement date or trade date (whichever date the U.S. holder is required to use to calculate the value of the proceeds of sale) may have foreign exchange gain or loss based on any appreciation or depreciation in the value of the foreign currency against the dollar, which will generally be U.S. source ordinary income or loss.

Tax Consequences if We Are a Passive Foreign Investment Company

 

We would be a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for a taxable year if either (1) 75% or more of our gross income in the taxable year is passive income; or (2) the average percentage (by value determined on a quarterly basis) in a taxable year of our assets that produce, or are held for the production of, passive income is at least 50%. Passive income for this purpose generally includes, among other things, certain dividends, interest, royalties, rents and gains from commodities and securities transactions and from the sale or exchange of property that gives rise to passive income. If we own (directly or indirectly) at least 25% by value of the stock of another corporation, we would be treated for purposes of the foregoing tests as owning our proportionate share of the other corporation’s assets and as directly earning our proportionate share of the other corporation’s income. As discussed below, we believe that we were not a PFIC for 2016.2019.

 


If we were a PFIC, each U.S. holder would (unless it made one of the elections discussed below on a timely basis) be taxable on gain recognized from the disposition of our Common Shares (including gain deemed recognized if our Common Shares are used as security for a loan) and upon receipt of certain excess distributions (generally, distributions that exceed 125% of the average amount of distributions in respect to such shares received during the preceding three taxable years or, if shorter, during the U.S. holder’s holding period prior to the distribution year) with respect to our Common Shares as if such income had been recognized ratably over the U.S. holder’s holding period for the shares. The U.S. holder’s income for the current taxable year would include (as ordinary income) amounts allocated to the current taxable year and to any taxable year prior to the first day of the first taxable year for which we were a PFIC. Tax would also be computed at the highest ordinary income tax rate in effect for each other taxable year to which income is allocated, and an interest charge on the tax as so computed would also apply. The tax liability with respect to the amount allocated to the taxable year prior to the taxable year of the distribution or disposition cannot be offset by any net operating losses. Additionally, if we were a PFIC, U.S. holders who acquire our Common Shares from decedents (other than nonresident aliens) would be denied the normally-available step-up in basis for such shares to fair market value at the date of death and, instead, would have a tax basis in such shares equal to the lesser of the decedent’s basis or the fair market value of such shares on the decedent’s date of death.

 

As an alternative to the tax treatment described above, a U.S. holder could elect to treat us as a “qualified electing fund” (a QEF), in which case the U.S. holder would be taxed, for each taxable year that we are a PFIC, on its pro rata share of our ordinary earnings and net capital gain (subject to a separate election to defer payment of taxes, which deferral is subject to an interest charge). Special rules apply if a U.S. holder makes a QEF election after the first taxable year in its holding period in which we are a PFIC. We have agreed to supply U.S. holders with the information needed to report income and gain under a QEF election if we were a PFIC. Amounts includable in income as a result of a QEF election will be determined without regard to our prior year losses or the amount of cash distributions, if any, received from us. A U.S. holder’s basis in its Common Shares will increase by any amount included in income and decrease by any amounts not included in income when distributed because such amounts were previously taxed under the QEF rules. So long as a U.S. holder’s QEF election is in effect with respect to the entire holding period for its Common Shares, any gain or loss realized by such holder on the disposition of its Common Shares held as a capital asset generally will be capital gain or loss. Such capital gain or loss ordinarily would be long-term if such U.S. holder had held such Common Shares for more than one year at the time of the disposition and would be eligible for a reduced rate of taxation for certain non-corporate U.S. holders. The maximum long-term capital gains rate is 20% for individuals with annual taxable income that exceeds certain thresholds. The QEF election is made on a shareholder-by-shareholder basis, applies to all Common Shares held or subsequently acquired by an electing U.S. holder and can be revoked only with the consent of the IRS. The QEF election must be made on or before the U.S. holder'sholder’s tax return due date, as extended, for the first taxable year to which the election will apply.

80

 

As an alternative to making a QEF election, a U.S. holder of PFIC stock that is “marketable stock” (e.g., “regularly traded” on the NASDAQ Capital Market) may, in certain circumstances, avoid certain of the tax consequences generally applicable to holders of stock in a PFIC by electing to mark the stock to market as of the beginning of such U.S. holder’s holding period for our Common Shares. Special rules apply if a U.S. holder makes a mark-to-market election after the first year in its holding period in which we are a PFIC. As a result of such an election, in any taxable year that we are a PFIC, a U.S. holder would generally be required to report gain or loss to the extent of the difference between the fair market value of the Common Shares at the end of the taxable year and such U.S. holder’s tax basis in such shares at that time. Any gain under this computation, and any gain on an actual disposition of our Common Shares in a taxable year in which we are PFIC, would be treated as ordinary income. Any loss under this computation, and any loss on an actual disposition of our Common Shares in a taxable year in which we are PFIC, would be treated as ordinary loss to the extent of the cumulative net-mark-to-market gain previously included. Any remaining loss from marking our Common Shares to market will not be allowed, and any remaining loss from an actual disposition of our Common Shares generally would be capital loss. A U.S. holder’s tax basis in its Common Shares is adjusted annually for any gain or loss recognized under the mark-to-market election. There can be no assurances that there will be sufficient trading volume with respect to our Common Shares for the Common Shares to be considered “regularly traded” or that our Common Shares will continue to trade on the NASDAQ Capital Market. Accordingly, there are no assurances that our Common Shares will be marketable stock for these purposes. As with a QEF election, a mark-to-market election is made on a shareholder-by-shareholder basis, applies to all Common Shares held or subsequently acquired by an electing U.S. holder and can only be revoked with consent of the IRS (except to the extent our Common Shares no longer constitute “marketable stock”).

 


Based on an analysis of our assets and income, we believe that we were not a PFIC for 2016.2019. We currently expect that we will not be a PFIC in 2017.2020. The tests for determining PFIC status are applied annually and it is difficult to make accurate predictions of future income and assets, which are relevant to this determination. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will not become a PFIC in any future taxable years. U.S. holders who hold our Common Shares during a period when we are a PFIC will be subject to the foregoing rules, even if we cease to be a PFIC, subject to certain exceptions for U.S. holders who made QEF, mark-to-market or certain other special elections. U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors about the PFIC rules, including the consequences to them of making a mark-to-market or QEF election with respect to our Common Shares in the event that we qualify as a PFIC.

Tax on Net Investment Income

 

A U.S. holder that is an individual or estate, or a trust that does not fall into a special class of trusts that is exempt from the tax, will be subject to a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (1) the U.S. holder’s “net investment income” for the relevant taxable year and (2) the excess of the U.S. holder’s modified adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold (which in the case of individuals will be between $125,000 and $250,000, depending on the individual’s circumstances). A U.S. holder’s net investment income generally will include its dividends on our ordinary sharesCommon Shares and net gains from dispositions of our ordinary shares,Common Shares, unless those dividends or gains are derived in the ordinary course of the conduct of trade or business (other than trade or business that consists of certain passive or trading activities). Net investment income, however, may be reduced by deductions properly allocable to that income. A U.S. holder that is an individual, estate or trust is urged to consult its tax adviser regarding the applicability of the Medicare tax to its income and gains in respect of its investment in the Common Shares.

81

 

Non-U.S. holders of Common Shares

 

Except as provided below, a non-U.S. holder of our Common Shares will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on the receipt of dividends on, or the proceeds from the disposition of, our Common Shares, unless, in the case of U.S. federal income taxes, that item is effectively connected with the conduct by the non-U.S. holder of a trade or business in the United States and, in the case of a resident of a country which has an income tax treaty with the United States, such item is attributable to a permanent establishment in the United States or, in the case of an individual, a fixed place of business in the United States. In addition, gain recognized on the disposition of our Common Shares by an individual non-U.S. holder will be subject to tax in the United States if the non-U.S. holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

 

A U.S. holder generally is subject to information reporting and may be subject to backup withholding at a rate of up to 28% with respect to dividend payments on, or receipt of the proceeds from the disposition of, our Common Shares. Backup withholding will not apply with respect to payments made to exempt recipients, including corporations and tax-exempt organizations, or if a U.S. holder provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies that such holder is not subject to backup withholding or otherwise establishes an exemption. Non-U.S. holders are not subject to information reporting or backup withholding with respect to dividend payments on, or receipt of the proceeds from the disposition of, our Common Shares in the U.S., or by a U.S. payor or U.S. middleman, provided that such non-U.S. holder provides a taxpayer identification number, certifies to its foreign status, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Backup withholding is not an additional tax and may be claimed as a credit against the U.S. federal income tax liability of a holder, or alternatively, the holder may be eligible for a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules, in either case, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS.

 

85

Information Reporting by Certain U.S. Holders

 

U.S. citizens and individuals taxable as resident aliens of the United States that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in a taxable year in excess of certain threshold (as determined under Treasury regulations) and that are required to file a U.S. federal income tax return generally will be required to file an information report with respect to those assets with their tax returns. IRS Form 8938 has been issued for that purpose. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts maintained by foreign financial institutions, foreign stocks held directly, and interests in foreign estates, foreign pension plans or foreign deferred compensation plans. Under those rules, our ordinary shares,Common Shares, whether owned directly or through a financial institution, estate or pension or deferred compensation plan, would be “specified foreign financial assets”. Under Treasury regulations, the reporting obligation applies to certain U.S. entities that hold, directly or indirectly, specified foreign financial assets. Penalties can apply if there is a failure to satisfy this reporting obligation. A U.S. Holder is urged to consult his tax adviser regarding his reporting obligation.

 

The above description is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to acquisition, ownership and disposition of our Common Shares. You should consult your tax advisor concerning the tax consequences of your particular situation.

F.F.Dividends and Paying Agents.

 

Not applicable.

 

G.G.Statement by Experts.

 

Not applicable.

 

H.82

H.Documents on Display.

 

We are currently subject to the information and periodic reporting requirements of the Exchange Act that are applicable to foreign private issuers. Although as a foreign private issuer we are not required to file periodic information as frequently or as promptly as United States companies, we generally do publicly announce our quarterly and year-end results promptly and file periodic information with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission under cover of Form 6-K. As a foreign private issuer, we are also exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of proxy statements and our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and other provisions in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. Our SEC filings are filed electronically on the EDGAR reporting system and may be obtained through that medium. You may inspect without charge and copy at prescribed rates such filings, including any exhibits and schedules, at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of such materials from the SEC at prescribed rates. The SEC also maintains a web site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The address of thisthat web site is http://www.sec.gov. You may call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms. The Exchange Act file number for our Securities and Exchange Commission filings is 000-20181.

 

Information about Sapiens is also available on our website at http://www.sapiens.com. Such information on our website is not part of this annual report.

 

I.I.Subsidiary Information.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 11.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk.

 

Market risks relating to our operations result primarily from changes in exchange rates, interest rates or weak economic conditions in the markets in which we sell our products and services. We have been and we are actively monitoring these potential exposures. To manage the volatility relating to these exposures, we may enter into various forward contracts or other hedging instruments. Our objective is to reduce, where it is deemed appropriate to do so, fluctuations in earnings and cash flows associated with changes in foreign currency rates and interest rates.

 

86

Foreign Currency Risk.We conduct our business in various foreign currencies, primarily those of Israel and the United Kingdom, and to a lesser extent of Japan, Europe and Canada. A devaluation of the NIS, GBP Euro and the Japanese YenEuro in relation to the US Dollardollar has the effect of reducing the US Dollardollar amount of any of our expenses or liabilities which are payable in those currencies (unless such expenses or payables are linked to the US dollar) while reducing the US Dollardollar amount of any of our revenues which are payable to us in those currencies.

Because exchange rates between the NIS, GBP and Euro, on the one hand, and the Japanese Yen againstUS dollar, on the US dollarother hand, fluctuate continuously, exchange rate fluctuations and especially larger periodic devaluations will have an impact on our revenue and profitability and period-to-period comparisons of our results. The effects of foreign currency re-measurements are reflected as financial expenses in our consolidated financial statements. A hypothetical 10% movement in foreign currency rates (primarily the NIS, GBP Euro, Japanese Yen, PLN and INR)Euro) against the US dollar, with all other variables held constant on the expected sales, would have resulted in a decrease or increase in 20162019 sales revenues of approximately $13.6 million.a maximum of $14.4 million, or an effect of 4.4% on total revenues.

 

We monitor our foreign currency exposure and, from time to time, may enter into currency forward contracts or put/call currency options to hedge balance sheet exposure. We may use such contracts to hedge exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates associated with balance sheet balances denominated in a foreign currency and anticipated costs to be incurred in a foreign currency.

 

Market Risk.We currently do not invest in, or otherwise hold, for trading or other purposes, any financial instruments subject to market risk.

Interest Rate Risk.Risk. We pay interest on our credit facilities based on the primeLIBOR interest rate in Israel for some of our NIS-denominated loans.liabilities. As a result, changes in the general level of interest rates directly affect the amount of interest payable by us under these facilities. However, we expect our exposure to risk from changes in interest rates to be minimal and not material. Therefore, no quantitative tabular disclosures are required.

Item 12.Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities.

 

Not applicable.

 

83

87

 

 

PART II

 

Item 13.Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 14.Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds.

 

None.

 

Item 15.Controls and Procedures

 

A.Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

 

Our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2016.2019. Based on such evaluation, the President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Financial Officer, have concluded that, as of December 31, 2016,2019, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 

B.Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) as of the end of the period covered by this report.

 

Based on that evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2016.2019. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there can be no assurance that our internal control over financial reporting will detect or uncover all failures of persons within the Company to comply with our internal procedures, as all internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective may not prevent or detect misstatements.

 

C.Attestation Report of Registered Public Accounting Firm.

 

The attestation report of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global, an independent registered public accounting firm in Israel, on our management’s assessment of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20162019 is provided on page F-3, as included under Item 18 of this annual report.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

 

Based on the evaluation conducted by our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) under the Exchange Act, our management has concluded that there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 20162019 that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 16.RESERVED

 

84

Item 16A.Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

Our Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Yacov Elinav, a member of our Audit Committee, meets the definition of an “audit committee financial expert,” as defined under the applicable rules promulgated by the SEC. All members of our Audit Committee, including Mr. Elinav, are “independent”,“independent directors,” as defined under the NASDAQ Listing Rules.

 

88

Item 16B.Code of Ethics.

 

We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and corporate controller, as well as to our directors and other employees. The Code of Ethics is publicly available on our website at www.sapiens.com. Written copies are available upon request. If we make any substantive amendments to the Code of Ethics or grant any waivers, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of such Code to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer or corporate controller, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on our website.

 

ITEM 16C.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

Policies and Procedures

 

Our Audit Committee has adopted policies and procedures for the pre-approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our independent auditors, Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global. The policies generally require the Audit Committee’s pre-approval of the scope of the engagement of our independent auditors or additional work performed on an individual basis. The policy prohibits retention of the independent auditors to perform the prohibited non-audit functions defined in Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 or the rules of the SEC and also provides that the Audit Committee consider whether proposed services are compatible with the independence of the public auditors.

 

Fees Paid to Independent Auditors

 

Fees billed or expected to be billed by Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global and other members of EY Global for professional services for each of the last two fiscal years were as follows:

 

 Year ended December 31,  Year ended December 31, 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
 (in thousands)  (in thousands) 
Audit Fees $415  $400  $400  $502 
Tax Fees $108  $195  $162  $177 
Other $99  $8 
Total $523  $595  $661  $687 

 

(1)Audit Fees consist of fees billed for the annual audit and the quarterly reviews of the Company’s consolidated financial statements and consist of services that would normally be provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements, including services that generally only the independent auditors can reasonably provide.

 

(2)Tax Fees are for professional services rendered by our auditors for tax compliance, tax advice on actual or contemplated transactions, tax consulting associated with international transfer prices and global mobility.

 

ItemITEM 16D.Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit CommitteesEXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

 

Not applicable.

 

ItemITEM 16E.Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated PurchasersPURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

 

None.

 

85

ITEM 16F.CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT.

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 16G.CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.

 

We are exempt from a number of the requirements under the NASDAQ Listing Rules based on our status as a “foreign private issuer.” See Item 6.C above “Board Practices— NASDAQ Opt-Outs for a Foreign Private Issuer.”

 

We have elected to follow our home country practice (under Cayman Islands law) in lieu of the requirements set forth in NASDAQ Listing Rule 5250(d)(1), which require a domestic United States company to make available to its shareholders a copy of its annual report containing its audited financial statements in one of three specific ways. Instead of distributing copies of our annual report by mail, furnishing an annual report in accordance with Rule 14a-16 under the Exchange Act or posting our annual report on our website and undertaking to provide a hard copy thereof free of charge upon request, we simply make our annual report available to shareholders via our website (http://www.sapiens.com/Annual-Reports/).

 


We have also elected to follow our home country practice (under Cayman Islands law) in lieu of the requirements of NASDAQ Listing Rules 5605(b), (d) and (e) which require:

 

•            The majority of the company’s board of directors must qualify as independent directors, as defined under NASDAQ Listing Rule 5605(a)(2) and that the independent directors have regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present.

A majority of the members of a company’s board of directors must qualify as independent directors, as defined under NASDAQ Listing Rule 5605(a)(2), and the independent directors must have regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present. (Under Cayman Islands law, our Board of Directors need not include a majority of independent directors, nor do independent directors need to meet separately on a regular basis.)

 

•            The compensation of the chief executive officer and all other executive officers must be determined, or recommended to the board of directors for determination, either by (i) a majority of the independent directors or (ii) a compensation committee comprised solely of independent directors (subject to limited exceptions).

A company must appoint a compensation committee composed of at least two members, each of whom is an independent director (as determined in accordance with NASDAQ Listing Rule 5605(d)(2)(A)) which shall, among other matters, determine, or recommend to the board of directors for determination, the compensation of the chief executive officer and all other executive officers (subject to limited exceptions). (Our Compensation Committee is not, and need not be {under Cayman Islands law}, composed entirely of independent directors.)

 

•            Director nominees must either be selected or recommended for the board of directors’ selection, either by (a) a majority of independent directors or (b) a nominations committee comprised solely of independent directors (subject to limited exceptions).

Director nominees must either be selected or recommended for the board of directors’ selection, either by (a) a majority of independent directors or (b) a nominations committee comprised solely of independent directors (subject to limited exceptions). (Our Board of Directors as a whole makes nominations of directors, which is consistent with Cayman Islands law.)

 

•            The company must certify that it has adopted a formal written charter or board resolution, as applicable, addressing the nominations process and such related matters as may be required under US federal securities laws.

A company must certify that it has adopted a formal written charter or board resolution, as applicable, addressing the nominations process and such related matters as may be required under US federal securities laws. (We have no such formal written charter, and have not adopted such a board resolution.)

 

We have also elected to follow our home country practice in lieu of the requirements set forth in of NASDAQ Listing Rule 5635, which require a domestic United States company to obtain shareholder approval for certain dilutive events, such as:

 

·theThe establishment or amendment of certain equity based compensation plans and arrangements;arrangements

 

·anAn issuance that will result in a change of control of the company;company

 

·certainCertain transactions other than a public offering involving issuances of a 20% or more interest in the company; andcompany

 

·certainCertain acquisitions of the stock or assets of another company.company

 

We have submitted to NASDAQ a written statement from our independent CuraçaoCayman Islands counsel that certified that our practice of not making the annual report available in accordance with NASDAQ rules, but rather making it available on our website, our not complying with the requirements of NASDAQ Listing Rules 5605(b), (d) and (e) and not obtaining the shareholder approvals required under NASDAQ Listing Rule 5635 are not prohibited by CuraçaoCayman Islands law.

 

86

ITEM 16H.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE.

 

Not applicable.

  

90

PART III

 

Item 17.Financial Statements.

 

We have elected to provide financial statements and related information pursuant to Item 18.

 

Item 18.Financial Statements.

 

The Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes required by this Item are contained on pages F-1 through F-41F-48 hereof.

 

Item 19.Exhibits

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit No.Exhibit Description
 87 
1.1  Memorandum of Association of Sapiens International Corporation N.V. (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s proxy statement with respect to its 2017 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, annexed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 26, 2017)
1.2  Articles of Association of Sapiens International Corporation N.V. (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s proxy statement with respect to its 2017 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, annexed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 26, 2017)
2.1  Description of common shares of Sapiens International Corporation N.V.*
4.1  Sapiens International Corporation N.V. 2011 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (SEC File No. 333-177834), filed with the SEC on November 9, 2011)
4.2  Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 21, 2011, by and among Sapiens International Corporation N.V. and certain of its shareholders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form F-3 (SEC File No. 333-187185), filed with the SEC on March 11, 2013)
8.1  List of Subsidiaries*
12.1  Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/Rule 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act*
12.2  Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/Rule 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act*
13.1  Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b)/Rule 15d-14(b) under the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
15.1  Consent of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global, independent registered public accounting firm*
101  The following financial information from Sapiens International Corporation N.V.’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language):
(i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2018 and 2019;
(ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019;
(iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019;
(iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019;
(v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019; and
(vi) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged as blocks of text. *

* Filed herewith

91

 

 

SIGNATURE

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.
Date: April 7, 2020By:/s/ Roni Al-Dor
Roni Al-Dor
President & Chief Executive Officer


SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 20162019

 

IN U.S. DOLLARS

 

INDEX

 

 Page
  
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmF-2F – 2 - F-3F – 3
  
Consolidated Balance SheetsF - 4 - F - 5
  
Consolidated Statements of IncomeF - 6
  
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive IncomeF - 7
  
Consolidated Statements of Changes in EquityF - 8
  
Consolidated Statements of Cash FlowsF - 9 - F - 10
  
Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsF - 11 - F - 41– 48

 

- - - - - - - -

 

F - 1

 

 

 

Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer

3 Aminadav St.144 Menachem Begin Road Building A

Tel-Aviv 6706703,6492102, Israel

 

Tel: +972-3-6232525

Fax: +972-3-5622555

ey.com

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Sapiens International Corporation N.V. ("the Company")(the Company) as of December 31, 20152018 and 2016, and2019, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. These2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States)statements"). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as ofat December 31, 20152018 and 20162019, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016,2019, in conformity with accounting principlesU.S. generally accepted in the United States.accounting principles.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016,2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated April 27, 2017,7, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

We have served as the Company's auditor since at least 1994, but we are unable to determine the specific year.

Tel-Aviv, Israel/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
April 27, 2017A Member of Ernst & Young Global

Tel-Aviv, Israel
April 7, 2020

 

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Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer

3 Aminadav St.144 Menachem Begin Road, Building A,

Tel-Aviv 6706703,6492102, Israel

 

Tel: +972-3-6232525

Fax: +972-3-5622555

ey.com

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited Sapiens International Corporation N.V. ("the Company")'s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016,2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Sapiens International Corporation N.V. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes, and our report dated April 7, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

  

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER

A Member of December 31, 2016, based on the COSO criteria.Ernst & Young Global

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Sapiens International Corporation N.V. as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 and our report dated Tel-Aviv, Israel

April 27, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.7, 2020

 

Tel-Aviv, Israel/s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
April 27, 2017A Member of Ernst & Young Global

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 December 31,  December 31, 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
          
ASSETS             
             
CURRENT ASSETS:             
Cash and cash equivalents $54,351  $60,908  $64,628  $66,295 
Marketable securities  8,776   18,220 
Trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $ 199 and $ 623 at December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively)  29,761   34,684 
Trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $455 and $543 at December 31, 2018 and2019, respectively)  38,953   34,615 
Unbilled receivables and contract assets  20,206   15,606 
Investment in restricted deposit  -   22,890 
Other receivables and prepaid expenses  5,455   6,389   6,224   7,817 
                
Total current assets  98,343   120,201   130,011   147,223 
                
        
LONG-TERM ASSETS:                
Marketable securities  30,875   17,228 
Capitalized software development costs, net  19,856   20,755   22,434   23,953 
Other intangible assets, net  7,684   7,599   42,820   34,035 
Property and equipment, net  5,675   9,807   8,515   16,601 
Goodwill  70,035   73,597   166,094   170,703 
Severance pay fund  4,699   5,106 
Operating lease right-of-use assets  -   49,539 
Other long-term assets  4,252   4,623   4,292   5,261 
Severance pay fund  5,551   4,041 
                
Total long-term assets  143,928   137,650   248,854   305,198 
                
Totalassets $242,271  $257,851  $378,865  $452,421 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)

 

 December 31,  December 31, 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
          
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY             
             
CURRENT LIABILITIES:             
Trade payables $4,721  $6,562 $6,149  $5,107 
Employees and payroll accruals  17,119   18,143   21,837   26,710 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities  14,893   13,906   25,162   33,864 
Deferred revenues and customer advances  10,268   9,137 
Current maturities of Series B Debentures  9,898   9,898 
Current maturities of operating lease liabilities  -   8,312 
Deferred revenues  18,057   21,021 
                
Total current liabilities  47,001   47,748   81,103   104,912 
                
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:                
Series B Debentures, net of current maturities  68,577   58,850 
Deferred tax liabilities  11,681   5,082 
Other long-term liabilities  6,414   9,864   9,398   8,321 
Long-term operating lease liabilities  -   43,394 
Accrued severance pay  6,662   4,940   5,622   6,364 
                
Total long-term liabilities  13,076   14,804   95,278   122,011 
                
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES                
                
REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST  385   908 
EQUITY:        
Sapiens International Corporation N.V. Shareholders’ equity:        
Share capital:        
Common shares of € 0.01 par value:
Authorized: 70,000,000 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2019; Issued: 52,310,300 and 52,488,172 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively; Outstanding: 49,982,004 and 50,159,876 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively
  695   697 
Additional paid-in capital  214,918   217,014 
Treasury shares, at cost - 2,328,296 Common shares at December 31, 2018 and 2019  (9,423)  (9,423)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (7,820)  (2,381)
Retained earnings  2,674   17,912 
                
EQUITY:        
Sapiens International Corporation N.V. Shareholders' equity:        
Share capital:        
Common shares of € 0.01 par value:
Authorized: 70,000,000 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively; Issued: 51,088,077 and 51,364,247 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively; Outstanding: 48,759,781 and 49,035,951 shares at December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively
  678   681 
Additional paid-in capital  233,980   226,782 
Treasury shares, at cost - 2,328,296 Common shares at December 31, 2015 and 2016  (9,423)  (9,423)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (11,679)  (11,167)
Accumulated deficit  (32,614)  (13,278)
        
Total Sapiens International Corporation N.V. shareholders' equity  180,942   193,595 
Total Sapiens International Corporation N.V. shareholders’ equity  201,044   223,819 
Non-controlling interests  867   796   1,440   1,679 
                
Total equity  181,809   194,391   202,484   225,498 
                
Totalliabilities and equity $242,271  $257,851  $378,865  $452,421 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
U.S. dollars in thousands (except per share data)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

U.S. dollars in thousands (except per share data)

 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
              
Revenues $157,450  $185,636  $216,190  $269,194  $289,707  $325,674 
                        
Cost of revenues  99,095   111,192   130,402   175,678   180,138   196,153 
                        
Gross profit  58,355   74,444   85,788   93,516   109,569   129,521 
                        
Operating expenses:                        
Research and development  11,352   10,235   16,488   31,955   34,414   37,378 
Selling, marketing, general and administrative  32,097   39,859   44,460   60,559   52,133   54,274 
                        
Total operating expenses  43,449   50,094   60,948   92,514   86,547   91,652 
                        
Operating income  14,906   24,350   24,840   1,002   23,022   37,869 
Financial income, net  124   163   533 
Financial expense, net  3,010   3,991   2,768 
                        
Income before taxes on income  15,030   24,513   25,373 
Taxes on income  (454)  (4,213)  (5,772)
Income (loss) before taxes on income (tax benefit)  (2,008)  19,031   35,101 
Taxes on income (tax benefit)  (2,564)  5,031   8,610 
                        
Net income  14,576   20,300   19,601   556   14,000   26,491 
                        
Attributed to non-controlling interests  131   59   (43)  (189)  215   244 
Attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  (18)  1   (135)  43   -   - 
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   224   443   350   -   - 
                        
Net income attributable to Sapiens' shareholders $14,463  $20,016  $19,336 
Net income attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $352  $13,785   26,247 
                        
Net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens' shareholders            
Net earnings per share attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders            
                        
Basic $0.31  $0.42  $0.40  $0.01  $0.28  $0.53 
                        
Diluted $0.30  $0.41  $0.40  $0.01  $0.28  $0.52 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
U.S. dollars in thousands

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
              
Net income $14,576  $20,300  $19,601  $556  $14,000  $26,491 
                        
Other comprehensive income (loss):            
Other comprehensive income (loss):            
                        
Foreign currency translation adjustments  (11,181)  (1,367)  476   11,589   (8,370)  5,496 
Unrealized gains (losses) arising from marketable securities during the period, net of tax  (158)  (37)  41 
Losses reclassified into earnings from marketable securities, net of tax  3   5   - 
Unrealized gains arising from marketable securities during the period, net of tax  146   -   - 
                        
  (11,336)  (1,399)  517 
Net change  11,735   (8,370)  5,496 
                        
Total comprehensive income  3,240   18,901   20,118   12,291   5,630   31,987 
                        
Comprehensive income (loss) attributed to non-controlling interests  158   59   (38)  (149)  193   301 
Comprehensive income (loss) attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  (18)  1   (135)
Comprehensive income attributed to redeemable non-controlling interest  43   -   - 
Comprehensive income adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   224   443   350   -   - 
                        
Comprehensive income attributable to Sapiens' shareholders $3,100  $18,617  $19,848 
Comprehensive income attributable to Sapiens’ shareholders $12,047  $5,437  $31,686 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
U.S. dollars in thousands (except of share data)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

  Common stock  Additional
paid-in
  Treasury  Accumulated
other
comprehensive
  Accumulated  Non-controlling  Total 
  Shares  Amount  capital  shares  income (loss)  deficit  interests  equity 
                         
Balance as of January 1, 2014  46,014,982  $645  $244,560  $(9,423) $1,082  $(67,093) $637  $170,408 
                                 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,067   -   -   -   -   1,067 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  1,225,368   17   1,552   -   -   -   -   1,569 
Warrants exercised (cashless)  438,961   5   (5)  -   -   -   -   - 
Dividend to non-controlling interests  -   -   -   -   -   -   (106)  (106)
Other comprehensive loss  -   -   -   -   (11,363)  -   27   (11,336)
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   14,463   131   14,594 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2014  47,679,311  $667  $247,174  $(9,423) $(10,281) $(52,630) $689  $176,196 
                                 
Adjustment for acquisition under common control  -   -   2,097   -   -   -   -   2,097 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2014 *)  47,679,311  $667  $249,271  $(9,423) $(10,281) $(52,630) $689  $178,293 
                                 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,153   -   -   -   196   1,349 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  1,080,470   11   1,557   -   -   -   -   1,568 
Distribution of dividend  -   -   (7,186)  -   -   -   -   (7,186)
Dividend to non-controlling interests  -   -   -   -   -   -   (77)  (77)
Other comprehensive loss  -   -   -   -   (1,398)  -   (1)  (1,399)
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   -   -   -   -   (224)  -   (224)
Distribution to ultimate parent for a business acquisition under common control  -   -   (10,815)  -   -   -   -   (10,815)
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   20,240   60   20,300 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2015  48,759,781  $678  $233,980  $(9,423) $(11,679) $(32,614) $867  $181,809 
                                 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,701   -   -       40   1,741 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  276,170   3   887   -   -   -   -   890 
Distribution of dividend  -   -   (9,786)  -   -   -   (73)  (9,859)
Other comprehensive income  -   -   -   -   512   -   5   517 
Redeemable non-controlling interest  -   -   -   -   -   (308)  -   (308)
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   19,644   (43)  19,601 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2016  49,035,951  $681  $226,782  $(9,423) $(11,167) $(13,278) $796  $194,391 

U.S. dollars in thousands(except of share data)

 

*) Derived from the audited financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 2014, adjusted for the acquisition of Insseco (see note 1(d)(2)).

  Common stock  Additional paid-in  Treasury  Accumulated other comprehensive income  (Accumulated deficit) Retained  Non-
controlling
  Total 
  Shares  Amount  capital  shares  (loss)  earnings  interests  equity 
                         
Balance as of January 1, 2017  49,035,951  $681  $226,782  $(9,423) $(11,167) $(13,278) $796  $194,391 
                                 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,799   -   -   -   184   1,983 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  722,483   8   2,445   -   -   -   -   2,453 
Distribution of dividend  -   -   (9,851)  -   -   -   -   (9,851)
Other comprehensive income  -   -   -   -   11,695   -   40   11,735 
Redeemable non-controlling interest  -   -   -   -   -   (393)  -   (393)
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   745   (189)  556 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2017  49,758,434   689   221,175   (9,423)  528   (12,926)  831   200,874 
                                 
Cumulative effect adjustment resulting from adoption of new accounting pronouncement, net  -   -   -   -   -   1,815   -   1,815 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,796   -   -   -   146   1,942 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  223,570   6   889   -   -   -   -   895 
Expiration of redeemable non-controlling interests  -   -   1,036   -   -   -   317   1,353 
Distribution of dividend  -   -   (9,978)  -   -   -   (47)  (10,025)
Other comprehensive loss  -   -   -   -   (8,348)  -   (22)  (8,370)
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   13,785   215   14,000 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2018  49,982,004   695   214,918   (9,423)  (7,820)  2,674   1,440   202,484 
                                 
Stock-based compensation  -   -   1,318   -   -   -   87   1,405 
Employee stock options exercised (cash and cashless)  177,872   2   778   -   -   -   -   780 
Distribution of dividend  -   -   -   -   -   (11,009)  (149)  (11,158)
Other comprehensive income  -   -   -   -   5,439   -   57   5,496 
Net income  -   -   -   -   -   26,247   244   26,491 
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2019  50,159,876  $697  $217,014  $(9,423) $(2,381) $17,912    $1,679$ $225,498 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

U.S. dollars in thousands

 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
Cash flows from operating activities:            
Cash flows from operating activities:       
                   
Net income $14,576  $20,300  $19,601  $556  $14,000  $26,491 
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                        
Depreciation and amortization  8,717   9,625   10,021   15,871   19,862   19,138 
Stock-based compensation  1,067   1,349   1,955   1,983   1,942   1,405 
Accretion of discount on Series B Debentures  52   194   171 
Capital gain from sale of property and equipment  -   -   (40)
Amortization of premium and accrued interest on marketable securities  (225)  (453)  (516)  509   -   - 
                        
Net changes in operating assets and liabilities                        
Trade receivables, net  (6,637)  1,893   (5,435)
Trade receivables, net and unbilled receivables  (5,253)  (7,588)  10,514 
Other operating assets  127   (1,229)  (3,309)  3,688   509   6,726 
Deferred tax assets, net  (1,020)  2,169   1,664 
Deferred tax liabilities, net  (8,840)  (1,567)  (6,441)
Trade payables  (3,297)  1,511   1,101   (1,388)  (1,870)  (1,476)
Other operating liabilities  8,469   4,134   2,223   858   (174)  6,667 
Deferred revenues and customer advances  (223)  1,300   (1,035)
Deferred revenues  1,249   2,349   2,747 
Accrued severance pay, net  7   (159)  (231)  (37)  43   255 
                        
Net cash provided by operating activities  21,561   40,440   26,039   9,248   27,700   66,157 
                        
Cash flows from investing activities:            
Cash flows from investing activities:            
                        
Purchase of property and equipment  (1,468)  (2,815)  (4,664)  (2,622)  (1,914)  (11,474)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment  -   -   834 
Capitalized software development costs  (6,094)  (6,032)  (5,545)  (5,567)  (5,160)  (5,665)
Net cash paid for acquisitions (b)  (2,064)  (2,934)  (4,382)  (100,381)  (18,507)  (1,554)
Investment in marketable securities  (34,906)  (7,678)  (9,017)
Investment in lease deposit  -   -   (1,119)
Investment in restricted deposit on account of future acquisition (Note 19)  -   -   (22,890)
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities  1,543   1,499   13,898   35,369   -   - 
Restricted cash, net  239   (893)  1,393 
                        
Net cash used in investing activities $(42,750) $(18,853) $(8,317) $(73,201) $(25,581) $(41,868)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F - 9

F - 9

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

U.S. dollars in thousands

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
Cash flows from financing activities:         
          
Proceeds from employee stock options exercised $2,453  $895  $780 
Repayment of loans  (56)  (237)  (4)
Issuance of Series B Debentures, net (*)  78,229   -   - 
Repayment of Series B Debentures  -   -   (9,898)
Distribution of dividend  (9,851)  (9,978)  (11,009)
Payments of contingent consideration  (766)  (61)  (374)
Dividend to non-controlling interest  -   (47)  (149)
             
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  70,009   (9,428)  (20,654)
             
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  4,503   470   (1,968)
             
Increase (decrease) in cash, and cash equivalents  10,559   (6,839)  1,667 
Cash, cash equivalents at beginning of year  60,908   71,467   64,628 
             
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $71,467  $64,628  $66,295 
             
Supplemental cash flow activities:            
             
(a)Cash paid during the year for:            
             
Interest paid, net $713  $2,067  $2,481 
             
Income taxes $2,705  $2,853  $6,397 
             
(b)Net cash paid for acquisitions:            
Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:            
Working capital, net (excluding cash and cash equivalents) $4,816  $2,317  $317 
Other long-term assets  (1,336)  (186)  (412)
Other long-term liabilities  16,599   3,766   200 
Goodwill and other intangible assets  (120,460)  (24,404)  (1,659)
             
  $(100,381) $(18,507) $(1,554)
             
(c)Non-cash transactions:            
Disposal of property $-  $(155) $- 
Net lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets $-  $-  $19,125 
Property and equipment purchase incurred but unpaid at period end $247  $76  $315 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS*) Net of $956 of debt discount and issuance costs
U.S. dollars in thousands

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
Cash flows from financing activities:            
             
Proceeds from employee stock options exercised $1,569  $1,568  $890 
Distribution to ultimate parent for a business acquisition under common control (c)  -   (8,482)  (1,440)
Repayment of loan  -   -   (824)
Distribution of dividend  -   (7,186)  (9,786)
Dividend to non-controlling interest  (106)  (77)  (73)
             
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  1,463   (14,177)  (11,233)
             
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  (3,187)  (459)  68 
             
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  (22,913)  6,951   6,557 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year  70,313   47,400   54,351 
             
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $47,400  $54,351  $60,908 
             
Supplemental cash flow activities:            
             
(a) Cash paid (received) during the year for:            
             
Interest paid $5  $6  $48 
             
Interest received $(604) $(1,199) $(1,321)
             
Income taxes $665  $2,234  $1,196 
             
(b) Net cash paid for acquisitions:            
             
Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:            
Working capital, net (excluding cash and cash equivalents) $(228) $(1,221) $1,547 
Other long term assets  -   (183)  (2,089)
Other long term liabilities  -   1,424   1,420 
Goodwill and other intangible assets  (2,013)  (3,903)  (5,260)
Contingent payments  -   949   - 
Redeemable non-controlling interest  177   -   - 
             
  $(2,064) $(2,934) $(4,382)
             
(c) Non-cash transactions:            
             
Loan and contingent payments to ultimate parent  -   (2,333)  - 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F - 10

F - 10

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 1:GENERAL

NOTE 1:- GENERAL

 

a.General:

 

Sapiens International Corporation N.V. (“Sapiens”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), a member of the Formula Systems (1985) Ltd. (“Formula”) Group, is a global provider of software solutions for the insurance industry, with an emerging focus on the broader financial services sector. The Company'sultimate parent of the Company is Asseco Poland S.A. (“Asseco”), a Polish public company, traded on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The Company’s offerings include a broad range of software solutionspolicy administration, billing and services, comprised of: (i) core software solutions for the insurance industry, including Property & Casualty/General Insurance (“P&C”)claims; underwriting, illustration and Life, Annuitieselectronic application; reinsurance; and Pensions (“L&P”) products, and record keeping software solutions for providers of Retirement Services; (ii) variety of technology based solutions including business decision management solutions for the financial services industry, including insurance, bankingsoftware. Sapiens’ digital suite features customer and capital markets;agent portals, and (iii)an advanced analytics solution. Sapiens global services includinginclude program management, project delivery and implementation of the Company’ software solutions.solutions, business services and managed services.

The Company operates primarily in North America, United Kingdom, Europe, Israel,Asia Pacific and Asia Pacific.South Africa.

 

b.Acquisition of Maximum Processing:Cálculo S.A.U.:

 

On May 26, 2016,September 27, 2019 (the “Acquisition Date”), Sapiens completed the acquisition of all outstanding shares of Cálculo S.A.U (“Cálculo”), a Spanish company of insurance consulting and managed services, and a core solution to the Spanish market, for a total cash consideration of $5,760 (of which $5,608 were paid in September 2019, and $152 will be paid in the first half of 2020). The net impact on cash flow from investing activities was $1,554, net of $4,054 of cash acquired. In addition, the sellers and senior executives have performance-based payments relating to achievements of various targets over three years (2019-2021) of up to $1,700. Some of these payments are subject to continued employment, and therefore were not included in the purchase price. Acquisition related costs were immaterial. Unaudited pro forma condensed results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019 were not presented, since the acquisition is immaterial. The results of Cálculo’s operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date:

Net assets (including cash of $ 4,054) $4,101 
Intangible assets  1,037 
Goodwill  622 
     
Net assets acquired $5,760 

Revenues and net income of Cálculo included in the Company’s consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2019 amount to $2,792 and $116, respectively.

F - 11

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:- GENERAL (Cont.)

c.Acquisitions in previous years:

1.Acquisition of Adaptik Corporation:

On March 7, 2018 (the “acquisition date”), Sapiens completed the acquisition of all outstanding shares of Adaptik Corporation (“Adaptik”), a New-Jersey company engaged in the development of software solutions for P&C insurers, (including policy administration, rating, billing, customer and task management and product design), for a total cash consideration of $18,179 (of which $17,979 was paid in March 2018 and $200 will be paid in March 2022). In addition, the seller has performance-based payments relating to achievements of revenue targets over three years (2018-2020) of up to $3,700, of which $1,300 was paid during 2019. Such payments are subject to continued employment and therefore were not included in the purchase price. Acquisition related costs were approximately $0.3 million. Unaudited pro forma condensed results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018 were not presented, since the acquisition is immaterial. The result of Adaptik’s operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements since March 2018.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date:

Net liabilities $(2,697)
Intangible assets  12,936 
Deferred taxes  (3,528)
Goodwill  11,468 
     
Net assets acquired $18,179 

2.Acquisition of StoneRiver:

On February 28, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of StoneRiver, Inc. (“StoneRiver”), a provider of technology solutions and services to the insurance industry for $101,351. The Company related acquisition costs of $1,348 is presented in general and administrative expenses.

The acquisitions of StoneRiver and Adaptik expanded Sapiens presence and scale in the North American insurance market, and allows the Company to offer its customers and partners a more extensive product portfolio in the industry.

The acquisition was accounted for by the acquisition method and accordingly, the purchase price has been allocated according to the estimated fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of StoneRiver. The results of StoneRiver’s operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements since February 28, 2017.

F - 12

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:- GENERAL (Cont.)

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed:

Current assets $16,785 
Property and equipment  1,088 
Goodwill  77,013 
Intangible assets  38,146 
Other long-term assets  78 
     
Total assets acquired $133,110 
     
Current liabilities $10,595 
Deferred revenues  5,742 
Deferred tax liabilities  15,071 
Other long-term liabilities  351 
     
Total liabilities acquired  31,759 
     
Total purchase price $101,351 

The following table sets forth the components of intangible assets associated with the acquisition:

  Fair value 
    
Developed technology $34,040 
Customer relationships  3,333 
Backlog  773 
     
Total intangible assets $38,146 

F - 13

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:- GENERAL (Cont.)

3.Acquisition of KnowledgePrice:

On December 27, 2017, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase 100%all of Maximum Processing Inc.’s (MaxPro)KnowledgePrice.com’s (“KnowledgePrice”) total shares outstanding. MaxProKnowledgePrice, a Latvian company, specializes in providing businessdigital insurance services and technology solutions acrossconsulting. The fair value of the insurance industry.

Sapiens paidtotal consideration amounted to $5,720, including a cash consideration of $4,068, and a contingent obligation valued at $1,652 at the acquisition consideration in cash, consistingdate, of $4,278 (of which $1,490 was deposited at closing in escrow).the Company paid $62 during 2019. In addition, the seller has performance basedperformance-based payments relating to achievements of revenue and profitability targets over three years (2016-2018)(2018-2020) and a retention payment of up to $3,126$1,116 that are subject to continued employment and therefore, not part of the purchase price.

c.Acquisition of 4Sight business intelligence:

On June 7, 2016, Sapiens entered into an agreement to purchase 100% of 4Sight Business Intelligence Inc.’s (4Sight) total shares outstanding. 4sight's system provides analytics software for the insurance industry.

Sapiens paid the acquisition consideration of $330. In addition, the seller has performance based payments relating to achievements of revenue and profitability targets over three years (2016-2018) of up to $2,600. Such payments are also subject to continued employment and therefore, are not part of the purchase price.

d.Acquisitions in previous years:

1.On May 6, 2015, the Company completed the agreement to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Ibexi Solution Private Limited (Ibexi), an India-based provider of insurance business and technology solutions, in total consideration of $4,764 including a contingent obligation valued at $949 at the acquisition date. As of December 31, 2016, the estimated fair value of the contingent payment is $1,680.

F - 11

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:GENERAL (Cont.)

In addition, an amount of approximately $1,900 is subject to continued employment, and therefore not part of the purchase price, but is recognized overof which the service period.

2.On August 18, 2015 (the “acquisition date”), Sapiens completed the acquisition from Asseco Poland S.A. (“Asseco” or the “Seller”) of all issued and outstanding shares of Insseco. Asseco is the ultimate parent company of Sapiens, through holding in Formula Systems, which has been lastly effective as of December 23, 2014 and thereafter, the direct parent company of Sapiens. Insseco is a newly established company into which Asseco transferred all of its Polish insurance employees, certain fixed assets, certain customer contracts and certain software including intellectual property rights. Insseco has an established presence in the Polish insurance market, and services major insurance customers in Poland, including top tier insurance carriers.

SapiensCompany paid $590 during 2019. Unaudited pro forma condensed results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017 was not presented, since the acquisition consideration in cash, consisting of 34.3 million Polish Zloty or approximately $9,100. In addition, the seller has upside or downside performance based payments relating to achievements of revenue goals and profitability over the next five years. If the aggregate revenues generated by Insseco from its activity from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2020 exceed 90 million Polish Zloty or approximately $23,800, the Seller shall be entitled to receive additional amounts ranging from 3% to 15% of the excess amount of the respective revenues. If the aggregate revenues generated by Insseco for the period from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018 are below 84 million Polish Zloty or $22,200, the seller shall pay Sapiens an amount equal to 35% of the deficiency below such amount. In addition, the amounts payable to the seller may be adjusted upwards or downwards as a result of changes in the profitability of a specific account that Sapiens acquired as part of the acquisition. The estimated fair value of the contingent payments as of December 31, 2016 is $1,000.immaterial.

 

The acquisitionfollowing table summarizes the estimated fair values of Insseco from Asseco, which is the ultimate parent company of Sapiens is a transaction between entities under common control,assets acquired and therefore accounted for under the pooling of interest method in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. Under the pooling-of-interests method, combination between two businesses under common control is accounted for at carrying amounts with retrospective adjustment of prior period financial statements. As the common control achieved on December 23, 2014, the balance sheetliabilities assumed, as of December 31, 2014 of Sapiens was adjusted to reflect the carrying amounts combination between Sapiens and Insseco.acquisition date:

 

The results of Sapiens for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2015 were also adjusted to reflect the combination with Insseco, accordingly.

Under the pooling-of-interest method, the equity accounts of the combining entities are combined and the difference between the consideration paid and the net assets acquired is reflected as an equity transaction (i.e., distribution to parent company).

F - 12

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:GENERAL (Cont.)

As opposed to the purchase method of accounting, no intangible assets are recognized in the transaction, other than those existed in the combining entities and no goodwill is recognized as a result of the combination.

The application of the pooling-of-interest method with respect to the acquisition of Insseco increased the total assets, liabilities and equity as of December 31, 2014 by $4,387, $2,290, and $2,097, respectively. Revenues, pretax income and net income of Insseco for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2015, which are included in the consolidated statements of income amounted to $10,516, $1,324 and $1,165, respectively.

3.On August 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of Knowledge Partners International (KPI), a pioneer and recognized leader in decision management consultancy, services and training, in consideration of $ 2,380, composed of the following:

Cash $2,203 
Share consideration *  177 
     
Total purchase price $2,380 

*)Sapiens issued 57,000 shares of its subsidiary, Sapiens Software Solution (Decision) Ltd, reflecting 3% of the subsidiary's outstanding shares. According to the agreement, the sellers will have the right to sell their minority interests to the Company during the period commencing on the date that is 48 months following the acquisition date, and the Company will have a corresponding call option.

Sapiens issued additional 88,500 restricted shares of its subsidiary, Sapiens Software Solution (Decision) Ltd, expensed over a vesting period of three years commencing on the acquisition date.

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Net assets $780 
Intangible assets  2,417 
Deferred taxes  (363)
Goodwill  3,195 
     
Net assets acquired $6,029 

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in United States ("(“U.S. GAAP"GAAP”).

 

a.Use of estimates:

 

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions.assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Such management estimates and assumptions are related, but not limited to contingent liabilities, income tax uncertainties, deferred taxes, share-based compensation, value of intangible assets and goodwill, as well as the determination of revenue recognition from contracts accounted for based on the estimate of percentage of completion. The Company'sCompany’s management believes that the estimates, judgmentsjudgment and assumptions used are reasonable based upon information available at the time they are made. These estimates, judgments and assumptions can affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenuerevenues and expenses during the reporting period.periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates.estimates

 

F - 13

F - 14

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

b.Financial statements in United States dollars:

 

The currency of the primary economic environment in which the operations of Sapiens and certain subsidiaries are conducted is the U.S. dollar ("dollar"(“dollar”); thus, the dollar is the functional currency of Sapiens and certain subsidiaries.

 

Sapiens and certain subsidiaries'subsidiaries’ transactions and balances denominated in dollars are presented at their original amounts. Non-dollar transactions and balances have been remeasured to dollars in accordance with ASC 830, "Foreign“Foreign Currency Matters"Matters”. All transaction gains and losses from remeasurement of monetary balance sheet items denominated in non-dollar currencies are reflected in the statements of income as financial income or expenses, as appropriate.

 

For those subsidiaries, whose functional currency has been determined to be their local currency, assets and liabilities are translated at year-end exchange rates and statement of income items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. Such translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in equity.

 

c.Principles of consolidation:

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation.

 

Non-controlling interests of subsidiaries represent the non-controlling shareholders'shareholders’ share of the total comprehensive income (loss) of the subsidiaries and fair value of the net assets upon the acquisition of the subsidiaries. The non-controlling interests are presented in equity separately from the equity attributable to the equity holders of the Company.

Redeemable

In August 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of Knowledge Partners International (KPI), a pioneer and recognized leader in decision management consultancy, services and training, in consideration of $ 2,380. According to the agreement, the sellers had the right to sell their minority interests to the Company 48 months following the acquisition date, and the Company had a corresponding call option. Since the mutual option expired on August 2018, the Company reclassified the redeemable non-controlling interests are classified as mezzanine equity, separate from permanent equity, on the consolidated balance sheets and measured at each reporting period at the higher of their redemption amount or the non-controlling interest book value, in accordanceassociated with the requirements ofAccounting Standards Codification(“ASC”) 810 “Consolidation”aforementioned option into permanent equity.

F - 15

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and ASC 480-10-S99-3A, “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity”.per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

d.Cash equivalents:

 

Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to cash, with original maturities of three months or less at acquisition.

 

e.Restricted cash:

Investment in restricted deposit:

 

The Company maintainsmaintained a certain cash amounts restricted asamount deposited in a trust in order to withdrawal or use. As of December 31, 2015, the Company maintainedsecure a restricted cash balance of $1,370 that represented security deposits with respect to lease agreements, hedging transactions and credit lines from banks. The restricted cash balance was released during 2016. Restricted cash included in other receivables and prepaid expenses.future acquisition (for further information, see Note 19).

F - 14

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

f.Marketable securities:

The Company accounts for all its investments in debt securities, in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments - Debt and Equity Securities”. The Company classifies all debt securities as “available-for-sale”. All of the Company’s investments in available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are comprised of the difference between fair value and the amortized cost of such securities and are recognized, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization together with interest on securities is included in “financial income, net”.

The Company recognizes an impairment charge when a decline in the fair value of its investments in debt securities below the cost basis of such securities is judged to be other-than-temporary. Factors considered in making such a determination include the duration and severity of the impairment, the reason for the decline in value, the potential recovery period and the Company’s intent to sell, including whether it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the investment before recovery of cost basis. Securities that are deemed other-than-temporarily impaired, the amount of impairment is recognized in “net gain on sale of marketable securities previously impaired” in the statements of income and is limited to the amount related to credit losses, while impairment related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. During 2014, 2015 and 2016, the Company did not recognize an impairment charge as the decline in fair value of its investment in marketable securities is not judged to be other-than-temporary.

g.Property and equipment, net:

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, at the following annual rates:

 

  %
   
Computers and peripheral equipment 20 - 33
Office furniture and equipment 6 - 2033
Buildings 2.5

 

Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the term of the lease (including option terms that are deemed to be reasonably assured) or the estimated useful life of the improvements, whichever is shorter.

 

F - 15g.Leases:

Effective of January 1, 2019, the Company adopted Topic 842, which requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for leases classified as operating leases.  Topic 842 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. In July 2018, the FASB issued amendments to Topic 842 in ASU 2018-11, which provide a transition election to not restate comparative periods for the effects of applying the new standard. This transition election permits entities to change the date of initial application to the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented, or retrospectively at the beginning of the period of adoption through a cumulative-effect adjustment. The Company has adopted Topic 842 using the modified retrospective transition approach by applying the new standard to all leases existing on the date of initial application. Results and disclosure requirements for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2019 are presented under Topic 842, while prior period amounts have not been adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with the Company’s historical accounting under Topic 840.

F - 16

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

The Company elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance, which allowed the Company to carry forward the historical lease classification, the Company’s assessment on whether a contract was or contains a lease, and initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to January 1, 2019. The Company also elected to keep leases with an initial term of 12 months or less, which do not include an option to renew the lease agreement, off the balance sheet, and recognize the associated lease payments in the consolidated statements of income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

As a result of the adoption of Topic 842 on January 1, 2019, the Company recorded operating lease right of use (“ROU”) assets of $34,439 and operating lease liabilities of $36,487. The ROU assets include reclassification of lease incentives previously recognized under Topic 840 in the amount of $2,048. The adoption did not impact the Company’s retained earnings, or prior year consolidated statements of income and statements of cash flows.

The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. The Company’s assessment is based on: (1) whether the contract involves the use of an identified asset, (2) whether the Company obtains the right to substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of the asset throughout the period of use, and (3) whether the Company has the right to direct the use of the asset.

Leases are classified as either finance leases or operating leases. A lease is classified as a finance lease if any one of the following criteria are met: the lease transfers ownership of the asset by the end of the lease term, the lease contains an option to purchase the asset that is reasonably certain to be exercised, the lease term is for a major part of the remaining useful life of the asset, the present value of the lease payments equals or exceeds substantially all of the fair value of the asset, or the underlying asset is of such a specialized nature that it is expected to have no alternative use to the lessor at the end of lease term. A lease is classified as an operating lease if it does not meet any one of these criteria. Since all of the Company’s lease contracts do not meet any one of the criteria above, the Company concluded that all of its lease contracts should be classified as operation leases.

ROU assets and liabilities are recognized on the commencement date based on the present value of remaining lease payments over the lease term. For this purpose, the Company considers only payments that are fixed and determinable at the time of commencement. As most of the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate (“IBR”) based on the information available on the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The Company’s IBR is estimated to approximate the interest rate for collateralized borrowing with similar terms and payments and in economic environments where the leased asset is located. Certain leases include options to extend or terminate the lease. The ROU asset also includes any lease payments made prior to commencement and is recorded net of any lease incentives received. Moreover, the ROU asset may also include initial direct costs, which are incremental costs of a lease that would not have been incurred if the lease had not been obtained. The Company uses the long-lived assets impairment guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 360-10, “Property, Plant, and Equipment - Overall,” to determine whether a right-of-use asset is impaired, and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize. An option to extend the lease is considered in connection with determining the ROU asset and lease liability when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. An option to terminate is considered unless it is reasonably certain that the Company will not exercise the option.

F - 17

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Offices

The Company leases space for offices in various locations worldwide under operating leases. These contracts are considered as operating leases presented in ROU assets.

Motor vehicles

The Company leases motor vehicles. Each leasing contract is generally valid for a term of three years. These contracts are considered as operating leases presented in ROU assets.

For the vast majority of the Company’s motor vehicle lease agreements, the lease payments include inconsequential non-lease payments, such as license and registration fees, insurance and maintenance. As a result, the Company elected to not separate non-lease components from lease components, and instead, to account for each separate lease component and the non-lease component associated with that lease component as a single lease component.

 

h.Research and development costs:

 

Research and development costs incurred in the process of software production before establishment of technological feasibility are charged to expenses as incurred. CostsCertain internal and external costs incurred to develop software to be sold are capitalized after technological feasibility is established in accordance with ASC 985-20, “Software - Costs of Software to be Sold Leased, or Marketed”. Based on the Company’s product development process, technological feasibility is established upon completion of a detailed program design.

 

Costs incurred by the Company between completion of the detailed program design and the point at which the product is ready for general release, have been capitalized.

 

Capitalized software development costs are amortized by the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software product (between 5-7products (primarily seven years).

F - 18

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

i.Business combinations:

The Company accounts for its business acquisitions in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ASC No. 805, “Business Combinations”. The Company uses its best estimates and assumptions as part of the purchase price allocation process to value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the business combination date. The total purchase price allocated to the tangible assets acquired is assigned based on the fair values as of the date of the acquisition. Goodwill generated from the business combinations is primarily attributable to synergies between the Company and acquired companies’ respective products and services. Acquisition-related expenses are recognized separately from the business combination and are expensed as incurred.

The Company accounts for a transaction that does not meet the definition of a business as an asset acquisition Under ASU No. 2017-01, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business (“2017-01”), we first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the single asset or group of assets, as applicable, is not a business.

j.Other intangible assets, net:

 

Technology and patents acquired are amortized over their estimated useful life on a straight-line basis. The acquired customer relationships are amortized over their estimated useful lives in proportion to the economic benefits realized or the straight-linemethod.straight-line method. The weighted averageannualaverage annual rates for other intangible assets are as follows:

 

  %
   
Technology 1313 - 2526
Customer relationships 107 - 1713
Patent 10

 

j.k.Impairment of long-lived assets:

 

The Company'sCompany’s long-lived assets and identifiable intangibles that are subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC 360 "Property,“Property, Plant, and Equipment"Equipment”, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. RecoverabilityThe recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. During 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, no impairment losses have been identified.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

k.l.Goodwill:

 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price in a business combination over the fair value of the netidentifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired. Under ASC 350,"Intangibles- “Intangibles- Goodwill and Other" ("Other” (“ASC 350"350”), goodwill is subject to an annual impairment test at December 31 of each year or more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Goodwill impairment is deemed to exist if the net book value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value. The Company operates in four reporting units: Emerge, L&P (Life & Pension), P&C (Property & Casualty), Decision and P&C.IPEL (Israel, Poland, Emerge, Latvia, Spain).

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

The Company applied the provisions of ASC 350 for the Company'sCompany’s annual impairment test. Under the provisions, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment does not result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, no further impairment testing is required.

The Company performed a qualitative assessment during the fourth quarter of each of 2014, 2015 During 2017, 2018 and 2016 and concluded that the qualitative assessment did not result in a more likely than not indication of2019, no impairment and therefore no further impairment testing was required.losses have been identified.

 

l.m.Revenue recognition:

 

The Company implements the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606,  Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”). See Note 17 for further disclosures.

Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services are transferred to the customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration that the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services.

The Company determines revenue recognition through the following steps:

-identification of the contract with a customer;
-identification of the performance obligations in the contract;
-determination of the transaction price;
-allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and
-recognition of revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies a performance obligation.

Most of the Company’s contracts contain multiple performance obligations. which are accounted for separately if they are distinct.

On most occasions, the Company generates revenues from sales of software licenses which normally include significant implementation and customization services. Such software licenses and implementation and customization services that are not considered essential to the functionality of the software license.distinct performance obligations and are accounted for as one performance obligation. In addition, the Company generates revenues from post implementation consulting services and maintenance services.

 

Revenues are recognized when persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, delivery of the product has occurred, the fee is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. The Company considers all arrangements with payment terms extending beyond six months from the delivery of the elements not to be fixed or determinable. If the fee is not fixed or determinable, revenue is recognized as payments become due from the customer, provided that all other revenue recognition criteria have been met.

The Company accounts for revenues from its servicescontracts (either fixed price or Time and Materials (T&M)) that requireinvolve significant implementation, customization, or integration of the Company’s software license to customer-specific requirements are performance obligations that are satisfied over time. The underlying deliverable is owned and installation under ASC 605-35, "Construction-Typecontrolled by the customer and Production-Type Contracts",does not create an asset with an alternative use to the Company.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

In addition, the Company has enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Accordingly, the Company recognizes revenue on such contracts over time, using the percentage-of-completion ("POC") methodpercentage of completion accounting method. The Company recognizes revenue and gross profit as the work is performed, based on thea ratio ofbetween actual costs related to contract performance incurred to datecompared to the total estimated amount of such project costs. The revenues recognized are limited to revenues derived fromcosts for the Company's enforceable right to receive payment for services provided by it in accordance with its contracts with its customers.

In accordance with ASC 985-605, the Company establishes Vendor Specific Objective Evidence ("VSOE") of fair value of maintenance services (PCS). The Company's policy for establishing VSOE of fair value of maintenance services is based on the price charged when the maintenance is renewed separately.

contract. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts in progress are made induring the period in which they are first determined,such losses become probable, in the amount of the estimated loss on the entire contact.contract.

 

MaintenanceWhen post implementation and consulting services do not involve significant customization, the Company accounts for such services as performance obligations satisfied over time and revenues are recognized as the services are provided.

When the Company enters into a contract for the sale of software license which does not require significant implementation services, and the customer receives the rights to use the perpetual or term-based software license, the Company recognizes revenue from the sale of the software license at the time of delivery, when the customer receives control of the software license. The software license is considered a distinct performance obligation, as the customer can benefit from the software on its own.

The Company allocates the transaction price for each contract to each performance obligation identified in the contract based on the relative standalone selling price (SSP). The Company determines SSP for the purposes of allocating the transaction price to each performance obligation by considering several external and internal factors including, but not limited to, transactions where the specific performance obligation is sold separately, historical actual pricing practices and geographies in which the Company offers its services. If a specific performance obligation, such as the software license, is sold for a broad range of amounts (that is, the selling price is highly variable) or if the Company has not yet established a price for that good or service, and the good or service has not previously been sold on a standalone basis (that is, the selling price is uncertain), the Company applies the residual approach whereby all other performance obligations within a contract are first allocated a portion of the transaction price based upon their respective SSPs with any residual amount of transaction price allocated to the remaining specific performance obligation.

In addition to software license fees, contracts with customers may contain an agreement to provide for maintenance services. The Company considers the maintenance performance obligation as a distinct performance obligation that is satisfied over time, and recognized ratablyon a straight-line basis over the termcontractual period.

Sales commissions are considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. Sales commissions paid for initial contracts, which are not commensurate with sales commissions paid for renewal contracts, are capitalized and amortized over an expected period of benefit. Sales commissions on initial contracts, which are commensurate with sales commissions paid for renewal contracts, are capitalized and then amortized correspondingly to the recognized revenue of the maintenance agreement. Deferred revenuesrelated initial contracts. Sales commissions for renewal contracts are capitalized and customer advances include unearned amounts received under maintenance and support agreements and amounts received from customers, for which revenues have not yet been recognized.then amortized on a straight-line basis over the related contractual renewal period. If the expected amortization period is one-year or less, the commission fee is expensed as incurred.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

In addition, the Company derives a significant portion of its revenues from post implementation consulting services provided on a "TimeNOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Amortization expense related to these costs are included in sales, marketing, general and Materials" ("T&M") basis which are recognized as services are performed.administrative expenses.

 

m.n.Income taxes:

 

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes"“Income Taxes”. This topic prescribes the use of the asset and liability method, whereby deferred tax asset and liability account balances are determined based on the differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The Company provides a valuation allowance, if necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value.

 

The Company implements a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that, on an evaluation of the technical merits, the tax position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% (cumulative basis) likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement.

 

The Company classifies interest as financial expensesexpense and penalties as selling, marketing, general and administrationadministrative expenses.

 

n.o.Concentrations of credit risks:

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables, marketable securities and foreign currency derivative contracts.

 

The Company'sCompany’s cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash are invested in bank deposits mainly in dollars with a significant portion also invested inand NIS. Deposits in the U.S. may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions. Generally, these banks deposits may be redeemed upon demand and therefore bear minimal risk.

 

The Company'sCompany’s trade receivables are generally derived from sales to large and solid organizations located mainly in North America, Israel, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe, Asia Pacific and Asia Pacific. South Africa.

The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and to date has not experienced any material losses. In certain circumstances, the Company may require prepayment.

An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that the Company has determined to be doubtful of collection. Provisions for doubtful accounts are recorded in selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2:

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

The Company's marketable securities include investment in corporate and government debentures. The Company's investment policy limits the amount that the Company may invest in any one type of investment or issuer, thereby reducing credit risk concentrations.

 

The Company entered into forward contracts, and option contracts intended to protect against the increase in value of forecasted non-dollar currency cash flows. The derivative instruments hedge a portion of the Company'sCompany’s non-dollar currency exposure.

 

No off-balance sheet concentrations of credit risk exist.

 

o.p.Accrued severance pay:pay and retirement plans:

 

The Company'sCompany’s liability for severance pay for its Israeli employees is calculated pursuant to Israel'sIsrael’s Severance Pay Law based on the most recent monthly salary of the employees multiplied by the number of years of employment as of the balance sheet date. Employees are entitled to one month'smonth’s salary for each year of employment, or a portion thereof. The Company'sCompany’s liability is fully provided by monthly deposits with insurance policies and severance pay funds and by an accrual.

 

The deposited funds include profits (losses) accumulated up to the balance sheet date. The deposited funds may be withdrawn only upon the fulfillment of the obligation pursuant to Israel'sIsrael’s Severance Pay Law or employment agreements. The value of the deposited funds is based on the cash surrendered value of these policies and recorded as an asset in the Company'sCompany’s consolidated balance sheets.sheet.

 

In addition, the Company signed a collective agreement with certain employees, according to which the Company'sCompany’s contributions for severance pay shall be in lieu of severance compensation and that upon release of the policy to the employee, no additional payments shall be made by the Company to the employee. Generally, the Company, under its sole discretion, pays to these employees the entire liability, irrespective of the collective agreement described per above. Therefore, the net obligation related to those employees is stated on the balance sheet as accrued severance pay.

 

The Company'sCompany’s agreements with certain employees in Israel are in accordance with Section 14 of the Severance Pay Law, 1963, whereas, the Company'sCompany’s contributions for severance pay shall be in lieu of its severance liability. Upon contribution of the full amount of the employee'semployee’s monthly salary, and release of the policy to the employee, no additional calculations shall be conducted between the parties regarding the matter oto severance pay and no additional payments shall be made by the Company to the employee. Further, the related obligation and amounts deposited on behalf of such obligation are not stated on the balance sheet, as they are legally released from obligation to employees once the deposit amounts have been paid.

 

Severance expense for the years 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019 amounted to $3,022, $3,518$4,346, $3,919 and $4,094,$3,718, respectively.

 

The Company has a 401(k) retirement savings plan for most of its U.S. employees. Each eligible employee may elect to contribute a portion of its employee’s compensation to the plan. The Company has a discretionary employer match. In the reporting periods, this match ranges from 2-3% if an employee contributed 6%.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Such 401(k) employer match expense for the year 2017, 2018 and 2019 amounted to $429, $854, $1,144, respectively.

 

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

p.q.Basic and diluted net earnings per share:

 

Basic net earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year plus dilutive potential equivalent common shares considered outstanding during the year, in accordance with ASC 260, "Earnings“Earnings Per Share"Share”.

 

q.r.Stock-based compensation:

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, "Compensation“Compensation - Stock Compensation" ("Compensation” (“ASC 718"718”), which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense based on estimated fair values for all share-based payment awards made. ASC 718 requires companies to estimate the fair value of equity-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model.

The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense over the requisite service periods in the Company'sCompany’s consolidated statements of income.

 

The Company uses the Binomial Lattice ("(“Binomial model"model”) option-pricing model to estimate the fair value for any options granted. The Binomial model takes into account variables such as volatility, dividend yield rate, and risk freerisk-free interest rate and also allows for the use of dynamic assumptions and considers the contractual term of the option, and the probability that the option will be exercised prior to the end of its contractual life, and the probabilitylife. The company recognizes forfeitures of termination or retirement of the option holder in computing the value of the option.equity-based awards as they occur.

 

Stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award. The Company recognizes compensation expense for the value of its awards, which have graded vesting, based on the straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, net of estimated forfeitures. Estimated forfeitures are based on actual historical pre-vesting forfeitures.award.

 

The fair value of each option granted in 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019 using the Binomial model, was estimated on the date of grant with the following assumptions:

 

 Year ended December 31,   Year ended
December 31,
 2014 2015 2016   2017 2018 2019
            
Contractual life 6 years 6 years 6 yearsContractual life 6 years 6 years 6 years
Expected exercise factor 1.5-2 1.5-2.5 2-2.8Expected exercise factor 2-2.8 2-2.8 2-2.8
Dividend yield 0% 0% 0%   0% 0% 0%
Expected volatility (weighted average) 48.9% 43.0%-44.1% 34.9%-42.4%   28.9%-34.2% 30%-31.7% 30.5%-30.9%
Risk-free interest rate 1.8%-1.9% 1.6%-1.8% 1.3%-1.7%   1.8%-2.1% 2.6%-3.1% 1.6%-2.6%

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

The risk-free interest rate assumption is based on the yield from U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bonds with an equivalent term as of the Company'sCompany’s employee stock options. Since dividend payment is applied to reduce the exercise price of the option, the effect of the dividend protection is reflected by using an expected dividend assumption of zero.

The expected life of options granted is derived from the output of the option valuation model and represents the period of time the options are expected to be outstanding. The expected exercise factor is based on industry acceptable rates since no actual historical behavior by option holders exists. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company.

 

r.s.Fair value of financial instruments:

 

ASC 820, "Fair“Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures" ("Disclosures” (“ASC 820"820”), defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the "exit price"“exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In determining fair value, the Company uses various valuation approaches. ASC 820 establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company'sCompany’s assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.

 

The fair value hierarchy also requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

 

As a basis for considering such assumptions, ASC 820 establishes a three-tier value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:

 

Level 1 -Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that the Company has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these products does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 -Valuations based on one or more quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 -Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The Company measures its marketable debt securities and foreign currency derivative instruments at fair value. The Company's marketable debts securities are traded in markets that are not considered to be active, but are valued based on quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency and accordingly are categorized as Level 2.

The Company measures its foreign currency derivative instruments at fair value.

 

Foreign currency derivative contracts are classified within Level 2 as the valuation inputs are based on quoted prices and market observable data of similar instruments.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Foreign currency derivative contracts are classified within Level 2 as the valuation inputs are based on quoted prices and market observable data of similar instruments.

 

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, unbilled receivables and contract assets, other receivables and prepaid expenses and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of such instruments.

 

The following table presents liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2019 and 2018:

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
  Fair value measurement using input Level 2 
       
Accrued expenses and other liabilities:      
         
Derivative instruments $(47) $(67)
         
Total liabilities $(47) $(67)

s.t.Derivatives and hedging:

 

The Company enters into option contracts and forward contracts to hedge certain transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The purpose of the Company'sCompany’s foreign currency hedging activities is to protect the Company from risk that the eventual dollar cash flows from international activities will be adversely affected by changes in the exchange rates. The Company'sCompany’s option and forward contracts do not qualify as hedging instruments under ASC 815, "Derivatives“Derivatives and hedging"hedging”. Changes in the fair value of option strategies are reflected in the consolidated statements of income as financial income or expense.

 

In 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, the Company entered into option contracts in the notional amounts of $33,270, $9,250$31,111, $40,871 and $26,336,$24,296, respectively, and in 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019 the Company entered into forward contracts in the notional amounts of $7,383, $42,770$9,600, $17,731 and $17,668,$74,297, respectively, in order to protect against foreign currency fluctuations.

 

As of December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, the Company had outstanding options and forward contracts, in the notional amount of $25,772, $21,876$0, $4,950 and $0,$15,384, respectively.

 

In 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, the Company recorded income (expenses)(expense) of $(397)($300), $230$(869) and $849,$535 respectively, with respect to the above transactions, presented in the statements of income as part of financial income (expenses).expenses, net.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

t.u.Treasury shares:

  

Repurchased common shares are held as treasury shares. The Company presents the cost to repurchase treasury stock as a reduction of shareholders’ equity.

 

u.v.Comprehensive income (loss):

 

The Company accounts for comprehensive income (loss) in accordance with ASC 220, "Comprehensive Income"“Comprehensive Income”. Comprehensive income generally represents all changes in shareholders'shareholders’ equity during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, shareholders.

 

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, inof $7,820 and $2,381 at December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively, are mainly comprised from foreign currency translation differences.

w.Recently adopted accounting pronouncements:

On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-02, Leases (“Topic 842”), as amended, which supersedes the lease accounting guidance under Topic 840, and generally requires lessees to recognize operating and financing lease liabilities and corresponding right-of-use (“ROU”) assets on the balance sheet and to provide enhanced disclosures surrounding the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leasing arrangements. In addition, the Company reclassified deferred rent liabilities previously recognized as a reduction of the ROU assets. The Company adopted the new guidance using the modified retrospective transition approach by applying the new standard to all leases existing on the date of initial application and not restating comparative periods. The most significant impact was the recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for operating leases. For information regarding the impact of Topic 842 adoption, see Notes 2g and Note 5.

x.Recently issued accounting pronouncements:

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which requires that expected credit losses relating to financial assets be measured on an amortized cost basis and available-for-sale debt securities be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. ASU 2016-13 limits the amount of $11,679credit losses to be recognized for available-for-sale debt securities to the amount by which carrying value exceeds fair value and $11,167 at December 31, 2015also requires the reversal of previously recognized credit losses if fair value increases. The new standard will be effective for interim and 2016, respectively, were as follows:annual periods beginning after January 1, 2020, and early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

  December 31, 
  2015  2016 
       
Foreign currency translation differences $11,492  $11,021 
Unrealized losses on available-for-sale marketable securities, net of tax  187   146 
         
  $(11,679) $(11,167)

v.Impact of recently issued accounting standards:

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which amends the existing accounting standards for revenue recognition. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date, which delays the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year. The FASB also agreed to allow entities to choose to adopt the standard as of the original effective date.  The new revenue recognition standard will be effective in the first quarter of 2018, with the option to adopt it in the first quarter of 2017. The Company currently anticipates adopting the new standard effective January 1, 2018. The new standard also permits two methods of adoption: retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented (full retrospective method), or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date of initial application (the modified retrospective method). The Company preliminarily anticipates adopting the standard using the modified retrospective method. However, the Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of the standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures and the adoption method is subject to change.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases” (Topic 842), whereby, lessees will be required to recognize for all leases at the commencement date a lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. A modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements must be applied. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Companies may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early application is permitted. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of this pronouncement.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.NOTE 2:- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 2:SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

 

In March 2016,January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09,No. 2017-04, Intangibles: Goodwill and Other: Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. To simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill, the amendments eliminate Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. The annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An impairment charge should be recognized for the amount by which providesthe carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. In addition, the income tax effects of tax-deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit should be considered when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. The amendments also eliminate the requirements for improvementsany reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to employee share-based payment accounting. ASU 2016-09perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the qualitative impairment test is effectivenecessary. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis. The nature of and reason for fiscal years, andthe change in accounting principle should be disclosed upon transition. The amendments in this update should be adopted for annual or any interim periods within thosegoodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows.2019. Early adoption is permitted on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company does not expect that this new guidance will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2016,December 2019, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (ASU 2019-12), which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2020. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers2018-13 “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations820)—Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement”. This guidance removes certain disclosure requirements related to the fair value hierarchy, modifies existing disclosure requirements related to measurement uncertainty and Licensing” (“ASU 2016-10”), which clarifiesadds new disclosure requirements. The new disclosure requirements include disclosing the following two aspects of Topic 606: (a) identifying performance obligations;changes in unrealized gains and (b)losses for the licensing implementation guidance. The amendments do not changeperiod included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held at the core principleend of the reporting period and the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements. Certain disclosures required by this guidance in Topic 606.must be applied on a retrospective basis and others on a prospective basis. The new guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those annual periods, which will be our interim period beginning January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods with that reporting period. We are evaluating the impact of this standard.

In November 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (ASU 2016-18), which requires companies to include amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This guidance will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2018 andfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, although early adoption is permitted. The Company is still evaluating thedoes not expect this standard to have a material effect that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosuresstatements.

 

NOTE 3:MARKETABLE SECURITIES

As of December 31, 2015 and 2016, the fair value, amortized cost and gross unrealized holding gains and losses of available-for-sale marketable securities were as follows:

  December 31, 2016 
  

Amortized

cost

  

Gross
unrealized

gains

  

Gross

unrealized
losses

  

Fair

value

 
             
Government debentures – fixed interest rate $3,167   -  $(3) $3,164 
Corporate debentures – fixed interest rate  32,473   -   (189)  32,284 
                 
  $35,640   -  $(192) $35,448 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 3:MARKETABLE SECURITIES (Cont.)

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

  December 31, 2015 
  

Amortized

cost

  

Gross
unrealized

gains

  

Gross

unrealized
losses

  

Fair

value

 
             
Government debentures – fixed interest rate $5,242   -  $(19) $5,223 
Corporate debentures – fixed interest rate  34,663   -   (235)  34,428 
                 
  $39,905   -  $(254) $39,651 

 

As of December 31, 2016, the contractual maturities of available-for-sale marketable securities are up to three years. $18,220 were classified as short-term marketable securities as part of the current assets due to contractual maturity of up to one year. Interest receivable included in other receivables and prepaid expenses amounted to $334 and $226 as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively.NOTE 3:- OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS

 

NOTE 4:OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS
  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Deferred tax assets $2,965  $2,808 
Long-term unbilled receivables  -   362 
Other  1,327   2,091 
         
  $4,292  $5,261 

 

  December 31, 
  2015  2016 
       
Deferred tax assets $2,779  $2,261 
Other  1,473   2,362 
         
  $4,252  $4,623 

NOTE 4:- PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

NOTE 5:PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 December 31, 
 2015  2016  December 31, 
      2018  2019 
Cost:             
Computers and peripheral equipment $15,477  $18,503  $32,349  $41,648 
Office furniture, equipment and other  4,228   4,309 
Buildings and Leasehold improvements  2,780   6,051 
Office furniture and equipment  5,602   8,618 
Buildings and leasehold improvements  6,472   9,405 
                
  22,485   28,863   44,423   59,671 
Accumulated depreciation:                
Computers and peripheral equipment  12,712   14,737   29,328   35,841 
Office furniture, equipment and other  2,607   2,682 
Leasehold improvements  1,491   1,637 
Office furniture and equipment  4,013   4,440 
Buildings and leasehold improvements  2,567   2,789 
                
  16,810   19,056   35,908   43,070 
                
Depreciated cost $5,675  $9,807  $8,515  $16,601 

 

Depreciation expense totaled $1,582, $2,080$3,804, $3,766 and $2,835$3,470 for the years 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, respectively.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 5: LEASES

The Company leases substantially all of its office space and vehicles under operating leases. The Company’s leases have original lease periods expiring between 2020 and 2029. Some leases include one or more options to renew. The Company does not assume renewals in its determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably certain at lease commencement. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise the following: the fixed non-cancellable lease payments, payments for optional renewal periods where it is reasonably certain the renewal period will be exercised, and payments for early termination options unless it is reasonably certain the lease will not be terminated early.

In June 2012, the Company entered into a lease agreement for new corporate offices in Holon, Israel. The lease expires in January 2024, with an option by the Company to extend for an additional 5-year term. The Company deemed this option asreasonably certain to be renewed.

In April 2019,the Company entered into a lease agreement for a new office in Bangalore, India. The lease expires in April 2029, with an option by the Company to extend for an additional 5-year term. The company deemed this option as not-reasonably certain to be renewed.

The Company has several leased offices in the United States, with expiry dates varying between 2020 and 2026, with no renewal options.

Under Topic 842, all leases with durations greater than 12 months, including non-cancellable operating leases, are now recognized on the balance sheet. The aggregated present value of lease agreements is recorded as a long-term asset titled ROU asset.

The corresponding lease liabilities are classified between operating lease liabilities which are current and long-term.

The components of operating lease costs were as follows:

  Year ended December 31, 
  2019 
    
Operating lease cost $5,260 
Variable lease cost  3,920 
Short-term lease cost  177 
     
 Total lease costs $9,357 

The following is a summary of weighted average remaining lease terms and discount rates for all of the Company’s operating leases:

December 31,
2019
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)8.50
Weighted average discount rate5.14%

 

NOTE 6:CAPITALIZED SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT COSTS, NET

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities was $8,651 (included in cash flows from operating activities).

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 5: LEASES (Cont.)

Maturities of lease liabilities are as follows:

2020  8,426 
2021  7,872 
2022  7,178 
2023  6,822 
2024  6,264 
2025 and thereafter  28,784 
     
Total undiscounted cash flows  65,346 
Less imputed interest  (13,640)
     
Present value of lease liabilities $51,706 

NOTE 6:- CAPITALIZED SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT COSTS, NET

 

The changes in capitalized software development costs duringfor the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 20162019 were as follows:

 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
          
Balance at the beginning of the year $19,243  $19,856  $23,761  $22,434 
                
Capitalization  6,032   5,545   5,160   5,665 
Amortization  (5,439)  (4,929)  (4,859)  (5,668)
Functional currency translation adjustments  20   283   (1,628)  1,522 
                
Balance at the year end $19,856  $20,755 
Balance at year end $22,434  $23,953 

 

Amortization of capitalized software development costs for 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, was $4,926, $5,439$4,824, $4,859 and $4,929,$5,668, respectively. Amortization expense is included in cost of revenues.

 

NOTE 7:OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 7:- OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

 

a.Other intangible assets, net, are comprised of the following:

 

 weighted average
remaining useful life
(years)
 December 31,  Weighted average remaining useful life (years) December 31, 
   2015  2016    2018  2019 
Original amounts:                 
                 
Customer relationships 3.92 $10,853  $11,804  7.1 $21,980  $23,409 
Technology 4.47  6,717   8,080  4.0  71,428   52,555 
Patent 7.5  1,230   1,248  4.5  1,280   1,389 
                    
    18,800   21,132     94,688   77,353 
                    
Accumulated amortization:                    
                    
Customer relationships    6,361   7,756     11,705   14,673 
Technology    4,581   5,475     39,597   27,891 
Patent    174   302     566   754 
                    
    11,116   13,533     51,868   43,318 
                    
Other intangible assets, net   $7,684  $7,599    $42,820  $34,035 

 

b.Amortization of other intangible assets was $2,209, $2,106$7,243, $11,237 and $2,257$10,000 for 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, respectively.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 7:OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET (Cont.)

 

c.Estimated amortization expense for future periods:

 

For the year ended December 31,   
    
2017 $2,294 
2018  1,951 
2019  1,323 
2020  524 
2021 and thereafter  1,507 
     
  $7,599 
For the year ended December 31,   
    
2020 $9,624 
2021  8,613 
2022  5,881 
2023  5,550 
2024  2,707 
2025 and thereafter  1,660 
     
  $34,035 

 

NOTE 8:GOODWILL

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 8:- GOODWILL

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 20152018 and 20162019 are as follows:

 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
          
Balance at the beginning of the year $67,698  $70,035  $158,559  $166,094 
                
Acquisition of subsidiaries  2,588   2,967 
Acquisitions  11,468   622 
Functional currency translation adjustments  (251)  595   (3,933)  3,987 
                
Balance at year- end $70,035  $73,597 
Balance at year end $166,094  $170,703 

 

NOTE 9:ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES

NOTE 9:- ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES

 

 December 31,  December 31, 
 2015  2016  2018  2019 
          
Government authorities $3,419  $5,009  $7,033  $13,675 
Accrued royalties to the IIA (Note 10a)  251   259 
Accrued expenses  11,223   8,638   16,362   18,799 
Accrued interest – Series B Debentures  1,334   1,167 
Accrued royalties to the IIA (Note 11a)  433   223 
                
 $14,893  $13,906  $25,162  $33,864 

 

NOTE 10:COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

NOTE 10:- SERIES B DEBENTURES, NET OF CURRENT MATURITIES

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Series B Debentures $79,185  $69,287 
Less: Current maturities  (9,898)  (9,898)
Less: Unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs  (710)  (539)
         
  $68,577  $58,850 

In September 2017, the Company issued Series B Debentures in the aggregate principal amount of NIS 280 million (approximately $79.2 million), linked to US dollars, payable in eight equal annual payments of $9,898, on January 1 of each of the years 2019 through 2026. The outstanding principal amount of the Series B Debentures will bear a fixed interest rate of 3.37% per annum, payable on January 1 and July 1 of each of the years 2018 through 2025, with one final interest payment on January 1, 2026. Debt discount and issuance costs were approximately $956, allocated to the Series B Debentures discount and are amortized as financial expenses over the term of the Series B Debentures due in 2026. The first and second installments of $9,898, were paid in January 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020, respectively.

The Series B Debentures are listed for trading on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 10:- SERIES B DEBENTURES, NET OF CURRENT MATURITIES (Cont.)

The Series B Debentures are unsecured and non-convertible. The Series B Debentures interest may be increased in the event that the debentures’ rating is downgraded below a certain level. The Company has undertaken to maintain a number of conditions and limitations on the manner in which it operates its business, including limitations on its ability to undergo a change of control, distribute dividends, incur a floating charge on the Company’s assets, or undergo an asset sale or other change that results in a fundamental change in the Company’s operations.

In accordance with the indenture for the Series B Debentures, the Company is required to meet the following financial covenants: (1) Target shareholders’ equity (excluding minority interest)- above $120 million – as of December 31, 2019, total shareholders’ equity was $224 million; and (2) Target ratio of net financial indebtedness to net capitalization (in each case, as defined under the indenture for the Company’s Series B Debentures) below 65% - as of December 31, 2019 the ratio of net financial indebtedness to net capitalization was 1.58%. (3) Target ratio of net financial indebtedness to EBITDA (accumulated calculation for the four last quarters) is below 5.5. As of December 31, 2019, the Target ratio of net financial indebtedness to EBITDA was 0.07. As of December 31, 2019, Sapiens is in compliance with all of its financial covenants.

During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, the Company recorded $2,669 and $2,336, respectively of interest expense and $194 and $171, respectively as amortization of debt issuance costs and discount in respect of the Series B Debentures.

As of December 31, 2019, the estimated fair value of the Company’s Series B Debentures, was $70,593. The fair value was determined based on the closing trading price of the Series B Debentures as of the last day of trading for the period. The fair value of the Series B Debentures is considered a Level 2 measurement as they are not actively traded.

NOTE 11:- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

 

a.Sapiens Technologies (1982) Ltd. ("(“Sapiens Technologies"Technologies”), a subsidiary incorporated in Israel, was partially financed under programs sponsored by the Israel Innovation Authority ("IIA"(“IIA”), formerly the Office of the Chief Scientist, for the support of certain research and development activities conducted in Israel. In exchange for participation in the programs by the IIA, the Company agreed to pay 3.5% of total net consolidated license and maintenance revenue and 0.35% of the net consolidated consulting services revenue related to the software developed within the framework of these programs based on an understanding with the IIA reached in January 2012.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 10:COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Cont.)

In exchange for participation in the programs by the IIA, the Company agreed to pay 3.5% of total net consolidated license and maintenance revenue and 0.35% of the net consolidated consulting services revenue related to the software developed within the framework of these programs based on an understanding with the IIA reached in January 2012.

 

The royalties will be paid up to a maximum amount equaling 100%-150% of the grants provided by the IIA, linked to the dollar, and for grants received after January 1, 1999, bear annual interest at a rate based on LIBOR.

 

Royalty expense amounted to $618, $505$488, $414 and $503$471 in 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, respectively, and are included in cost of revenues.

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, the Company had a contingent liability to pay royalties of $7,119.up to $6,299.

 

b.Lease commitments:

The Company leases office space, office equipment and various motor vehicles under operating leases.

1.The Company's office space and office equipment are rented under several operating leases. Future minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable operating leases for the years ended December 31, were as follows:

2017 $4,050 
2018  3,426 
2019  2,974 
2020  1,085 
2021 and thereafter  83 
     
  $11,618 

Rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016 was $3,782, $4,418 and $6,284, respectively.

2.The Company leases its motor vehicles under cancelable operating lease agreements.

The minimum payment under these operating leases, upon cancellation of these lease agreements was $168 as of December 31, 2016.

c.The Company provided bank guarantees in the amount of $827$811 as security for the rent to be paid for its leased offices. The bank guarantees are valid through February 20172020 and thereafter will be renewed in anfor the same amount of approximately $850 which will be valid through February 2018.2021. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the Company has provided bank guarantees of $426$129 as security for the performance of various contracts with customers and suppliers.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 11:- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Cont.)

c.In accordance with the indenture for the Series B Debentures, the Company is required to meet certain financial covenants. See Note 10 above.

 

NOTE 10:d.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Cont.)Contingent purchase obligations

 

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had no restricted bank deposits in favorpart of the bank guarantees.

d.On August 27, 2015, the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary was summoned to a hearing at a court in Amsterdam in connection with a claim initiated against it by one of its customers.

Although the software system provided by the Company's subsidiary has been used by the customer since 2008, the customer claims that the software system furnished it did not comply with its requirements and that the subsidiary failed to correct errorsCompany’s acquisitions in the software systems in accordance with the service level agreement between the parties. The remedies sought by the customer are: (i) termination of all contracts with the subsidiary; and (ii) refund of all amounts paid by the customer to the subsidiary under the foregoing contracts plus damages in an aggregate amount of approximately €21.5 million.

As of the date of publication of these financial statements, the legal proceedings are at its early stage andrecent years, the Company has included in these financial statements a provision which reflects the Company’s current estimate of the potential outcome of the foregoing claim.several contingent earn-out obligations depending on retention and performance criteria. Refer to Note 1 for further information.

 

NOTE 11:TAXES ON INCOME

NOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME

 

a.Israeli taxation:

 

1.Corporate tax rates in Israel:

 

TheTaxable income of Israeli companies was generally subject to corporate incometax at the rate of was 24% in 2017 and 23% in 2018 and 2019. However, the effective tax rate was 25% in 2016 and 26.5% in 2015 and 2014.

In January 2016, the Law for Amending the Income Tax Ordinance (No. 216) (Reduction of Corporate Tax Rate), 2016 was approved, which includespayable by a reduction of the corporate tax ratecompany that derives income from 26.5% to 25%, effective from January 1, 2016.

In December 2016, the Israeli Parliament approved the Economic Efficiency Law (Legislative Amendments for Applying the Economic Policy for the 2017 and 2018 Budget Years), 2016 which reduces the corporate income tax rate to 24% (instead of 25%) effective from January 1, 2017 and to 23% effective from January 1, 2018.a Preferred Enterprise or Preferred Technological Enterprise (as discussed below) may be considerably lower.

 

2.Tax benefits under the Israel Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 ("(“the Law"Law”):

Certain of

The Israeli parliament enacted a reform to the Company's Israeli subsidiaries have beenInvestment Law, effective January 2011 (which was amended in August 2013). According to the reform, a flat rate tax applies to companies eligible for the “Preferred Enterprise” status. In order to be eligible for Preferred Enterprise status, a company must meet minimum requirements to establish that it contributes to the country’s economic growth and is a competitive factor for the gross domestic product. Benefits granted "Approved Enterprise" and "Preferred Enterprise" status, which provides certain benefits, including tax exemptions andto a Preferred Enterprise include reduced tax rates. Income not eligible for Approved Enterprise and Preferred Enterprise benefits is subject to corporate tax at the rate that would have otherwise been applicable on the Approved or Preferred Enterprise’s income.

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 11:TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The entitlement to the above benefits is conditional upon the fulfillingAs part of the conditions stipulated by the Laws and regulations. Should the certain Israeli subsidiaries fail to meet such requirements in the future, income attributable to their Approved Enterprise and Preferred Enterprise programs could be subject to the statutory Israeli corporate tax rate and they could be required to refund a portion of the tax benefits already received, with respect to such programs. As of December 31, 2016, management believes that these subsidiaries are following all the conditions required by the Law.

Approved enterprise tax regime

Under Approved Enterprise track, the Company is tax exempt in the first two years/six years/ten years of the benefit period (dependent on the development area) and subject to tax at the reduced rate of 10%-25% for a period of five/eight years (if the benefit period qualifying for tax exemption is two years) or one year/four years (if the benefit period qualifying for tax exemption is six years)/for the remaining benefit period (dependent on the level of foreign investment). Under the terms of the Approved Enterprise program, income that is attributable to one of the Company's Israeli subsidiaries was exempt from income tax for a period of two years commencing 2014.

If a dividend is distributed out of tax exempt profits, as above, the Company will become liable for tax at the rate applicable to its profits from the approved enterprise in the year in which the income was earned, as if it was not under the Approved Enterprise track. The Company's policy is not to distribute such a dividend.

Preferred enterprise tax regime

In August 2013, theEconomic Efficiency Law for Changing National Priorities (Legislative Amendments for Achieving BudgetAccomplishment of Budgetary Targets for 2013 and 2014)Budget Years 2017-2018), 2013 which includes Amendment 71 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments ("the Amendment") was enacted. Per the Amendment,5777-2016, the tax rate on preferred incomeis 16% for all other Areas other than Area A (which was 9% from a preferred enterprise in 2014 and thereafter will be 16% (in development area A - 9%)2016 onward). As for changes in tax rates resulting from the enactment of Amendment 73 to the Law, see below.

As of December 31, 2015, some of the Company Israeli subsidiaries had filed a requestnotice to the Israeli tax authorities to apply for the new benefits under the 2011 Amendment and therefore subjectedand subject to the amended tax rate of 16%., which was used for 2014-2016 tax years.

 

The Amendment also prescribes that any dividends distributed to individuals or foreign residentsA distribution from a Preferred Enterprise out of the preferred enterprise's earnings as above will“Preferred Income” would be subject to 15% withholding tax atfor Israeli-resident individuals and non-Israeli residents (subject to applicable treaty rates), or 20% for dividends which are distributed on or after January 1, 2014 and from “Preferred Income” that was produced or accrued after such date. A distribution from a ratePreferred Enterprise out of 20%.the “Preferred Income” would be exempt from withholding tax for an Israeli-resident company.

 

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SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 11:TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

NOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

 

New Amendment- Technological preferred enterprisePreferred Technology Enterprise (“PTE”):

 

In December 2016, the Economic Efficiency Law (Legislative Amendments for Applying the Economic Policy for the 2017 and 2018 Budget Years), 2016 which includes Amendment 73 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments ("(“the Amendment"2017 Amendment”), was published.

The Amendment prescribes special tax tracks for technological enterprises, which are subject to rules that are to be issuedpublished and was pending the publication of regulations, in May 2017 regulations were promulgated by the Minister of Finance by March 31, 2017.

The new tax track that may be relevantMinistry to certainimplement the “Nexus Principles” based on OECD guidelines published as part of the Company's subsidiaries in Israel isBase Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project. Following the technological preferred enterprise. A technological preferred enterprise,publication of the regulations the 2017 Amendment became fully effective. According to the 2017 Amendment, a Preferred Technological Enterprise, as defined in the Law,2017

Amendment, with total consolidated revenues of the group companies is less than NIS 10 billion, shall be subject to 12% tax rate on income derived from intellectual property (in development area A—a tax rate of 7.5%). In order to qualify as a Preferred technological enterprise certain criterion must be met, such as a minimum ratio of annual R&D expenditure and R&D employees, as well as having at least 25% of annual revenues derived from exports.

The 2017 Amendment further provides that a technology company satisfying certain conditions will qualify as a Special PTE (an enterprise for which, among others, total consolidated revenues of its parent company and all subsidiaries is at least NIS 10 billion) and will thereby enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 6% on PTI regardless of the company’s geographic location within Israel. In addition, a Special PTE will enjoy a reduced corporate tax rate of 6% on capital gain derived from the sale of certain “Benefited Intangible Assets” to a related foreign company if the Benefited Intangible Assets were either developed by the Special Preferred Technology Enterprise or acquired from a foreign company on or after January 1, 2017, and the sale received prior approval from the IIA. A Special PTE that acquires Benefited Intangible Assets from a foreign company for more than NIS 500 million will be eligible for these benefits for at least ten years, subject to certain approvals as specified in the Investment Law.

Any dividends distributed from income from the preferred technological enterprises will be subject to tax at a rate of 12% on profits deriving from intellectual property20%. The 2017 Amendment further provides that, in certain circumstances, a dividend distributed to a foreign corporate shareholder, would be subject to a 4% tax rate (if the percentage of foreign investors exceeds 90%).

 

Since asStarting 2017, part of December 31, 2016 definitive criteriathe Company’s taxable income in Israel is entitled to determinea preferred 12% tax rate under Amendment 73 to the tax benefits has not yet been established, it cannot be concluded that the legislation in respect of technological enterprises had been enacted or substantively enacted as of that date. Accordingly, the above changes in the tax rates relating to technological enterprises were not taken into account in the computation of deferred taxes as of December 31, 2016.Investment Law.

 

3.Foreign Exchange Regulations:

 

Under the Foreign Exchange Regulations, some of the Company'sCompany’s Israeli subsidiaries calculate their tax liability in U.S. Dollars according to certain orders. The tax liability, as calculated in U.S. Dollars is translated into NIS according to the exchange rate as of December 31st31 of each year.

 

c.b.Income taxes on non-Israeli subsidiaries:

 

Non-Israeli subsidiaries are taxed according to the tax laws in their respective country of residence. Neither Israeli income taxes, foreign withholding taxes nor deferredDeferred income taxes were provided in relation to undistributed earnings of non-Israeli subsidiaries, which the non-Israeli subsidiaries.Company intends to distribute in the near future.

 

This is because theThe Company intends to permanently reinvest undistributed earnings in the foreign subsidiaries in which those earnings arose.arose, in the vast majority of its subsidiaries. If thesethe earnings, for which deferred taxes were not provided, were distributed in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to additional Israeli income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and non-Israeli withholding taxes.

 

F - 36

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The amount of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are considered to be reinvested as of December 31, 20162019 was $23,495$25,505 and the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability for temporary differences related to investments in foreign subsidiaries that were essentially permanent in duration as of December 31, 20162019 was $1,665.$845.

F - 31

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 11:c.TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)Tax Reform - United States of America:

The U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“TCJA”) was approved by US Congress on December 20, 2017 and signed into law by US President Donald J. Trump on December 22, 2017. This legislation makes complex and significant changes to the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Such changes include a reduction in the corporate tax rate and limitations on certain corporate deductions and credits, among other changes.

The TCJA reduces the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. In addition, the TCJA makes certain changes to the depreciation rules and implements new limits on the deductibility of certain expenses and deduction.

The Company’s subsidiaries in the United States do not have any foreign subsidiaries and, therefore, the international tax provisions of the Act have no material impact on the Company’s results of operations.

The Company re-measured its U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities, based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future. The tax benefit recorded related to the re-measurement of the net deferred taxes was $3.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 

d.Net operating losses carry forward:

 

As of December 31, 2016,2019, certain subsidiaries had tax loss carry-forwards totaling approximately $24,177$28,842. Most of these carry-forward tax losses have no expiration date.

 

e.Deferred tax assets and liabilities:

 

Deferred taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for tax purposes. Significant components of the Company deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

 

  December 31, 
  2015  2016 
       
Deferred tax assets:        
Net operating losses carry forward $7,275  $6,515 
Research and development  2,123   1,619 
Other  3,188   3,155 
         
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance  12,586   11,289 
Valuation allowance  (6,212)  (6,589)
         
Deferred tax assets  6,374   4,700 
         
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Capitalized software development costs  (2,804)  (3,011)
Acquired intangibles  (1,472)  (1,202)
Property and equipment  (53)  (369)
Other  (163)  (24)
         
Deferred tax liabilities  (4,492)  (4,606)
         
Deferred tax assets, net $1,882  $94 

  December 31, 
  2015  2016 
       
Long-term deferred tax assets, net  2,779   2,261 
Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net  (897)  (2,167)
         
Deferred tax assets, net $1,882  $94 

F - 32

F - 37

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 11:TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

Long-term deferredNOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Deferred tax assets:        
Net operating losses carry forward $7,262  $7,792 
Research and development  1,473   2,312 
Lease liability  -   10,161 
Reserves and allowances  2,954   7,140 
Other  724   1,011 
         
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance  12,413   28,416 
Valuation allowance  (7,001)  (6,797)
         
Deferred tax assets  5,412   21,619 
         
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Capitalized software development costs  (3,211)  (4,011)
Lease right-of-use asset  -   (10,161)
Acquired intangibles  (10,000)  (8,107)
Property and equipment  (270)  (415)
Undistributed earnings  (437)  (921)
Other  (210)  (278)
         
Deferred tax liabilities  (14,128)  (23,893)
         
Deferred tax liabilities, net $(8,716) $(2,274)

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Deferred tax assets, net $2,965  $2,808 
Deferred tax liabilities, net  (11,681)  (5,082)
         
Deferred tax liabilities, net $(8,716) $(2,274)

Deferred tax assets, net are included in other long-term assets in the balance sheets. Long-term deferredassets. Deferred tax liabilities, net are included in other long-term liabilities in the balance sheets.liabilities.

 

The Company has provided valuation allowances in respect of certain deferred tax assets resulting from operating losses carry forwards and other reserves and allowances due to uncertainty concerning realization of these deferred tax assets.

 

F - 38

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

f.Income (loss) before taxes on income is comprised as follows:

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Domestic (Israel) $11,281  $19,478  $13,701 
Foreign  3,749   5,035   11,672 
             
  $15,030  $24,513  $25,373 

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
          
Domestic (Israel) $(3,849) $17,149  $34,303 
Foreign  1,841   1,882   798 
             
  $(2,008) $19,031  $35,101 

 

g.A reconciliation between the theoretical tax expense, assuming all income is taxed at the statutory tax rate applicable to income for an Israeli company, and the actual tax expense as reported in the statements of income is as follows:

 

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Income before taxes on income, as reported in the statements of income $15,030  $24,513  $25,373 
             
Statutory tax rate in Israel  26.5%  26.5%  25%
             
Theoretical taxes on income $3,983  $6,496  $6,343 
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:            
Effect of different tax rates  362   117   (382)
Effect of “Approved, Beneficiary or Preferred Enterprise” status  (2,323)  (2,406)  (1,338)
Utilization of carry forward tax losses for which valuation allowance was provided  (1,177)  (195)  - 
Non-deductible expenses  80   569   584 
Recognition of deferred taxes during the year for which valuation allowance was provided in prior years  (1,496)  -   - 
Losses and temporary differences for which valuation allowance was provided  580   127   377 
Others  445   (495)  188 
             
Taxes on income, as reported in the statements of income $454  $4,213  $5,772 
  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
          
Income (loss) before taxes on income (tax benefit), as reported in the statements of income $(2,008) $19,031  $35,101 
             
Statutory tax rate in Israel  24%  23%  23%
             
Theoretical taxes on income (tax benefit) $(482) $4,377  $8,073 
             
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:            
Effect of foreign tax rates  (67)  315   231 
Effect of benefited tax rates  (252)  (1,233)  (2,557)
Effect of the TCJA  (3,795)  -   - 
Carry forward tax losses for which valuation allowance was provided (utilized)  897   (1,067)  783 
Non-deductible expenses  892   1,276   549 
Increase in uncertain tax positions  240   1,653   1,889 
Others  3   (290)  (358)
             
Taxes on income (tax benefit), as reported in the statements of income $(2,564) $5,031  $8,610 

 

F - 33h.Taxes on income (tax benefit) are comprised as follows:

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
          
Current $2,459  $6,839  $14,733 
Deferred  (5,023)  (1,808)  (6,123)
             
  $(2,564) $5,031  $8,610 

F - 39

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 11:TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

NOTE 12:- TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

 

h.Taxes on income are comprised as follows:

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Current $1,474  $2,627  $4,122 
Deferred  (1,020)  1,586   1,650 
             
  $454  $4,213  $5,772 

 Year ended December 31,  

Year ended

December 31,

 
 2014  2015  2016  2017  2018  2019 
              
Domestic (Israel) $(443) $2,684  $2,824  $(314) $4,081  $3,639 
Foreign  897   1,529   2,948   (2,250)  950   4,971 
                        
 $454  $4,213  $5,772  $(2,564) $5,031  $8,610 

 

i.Uncertain tax positions:benefits:

 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

  December 31, 
  2015  2016 
       
Balance at the beginning of the year $705  $1,365 
Increase in tax positions  570   688 
Decrease in tax positions  (64)  (293)
Acquisition of subsidiary (*)  154   227 
         
Balance at the end of the year $1,365  $1,987 

(*) The amount initially consolidated as part of the acquisition of subsidiary in 2015 was net of Withholding taxes assets of $635.

The entire balance of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would reduce the Company's annual effective tax rate.

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Balance at the beginning of the year $2,293  $3,946 
Increase in tax positions  1,851   1,999 
Decrease in tax positions  (198)  (110)
         
Balance at the end of the year $3,946  $5,835 

 

As of December 31, 20152018, and 2016,2019, accrued interest related to uncertainunrecognized tax positionsbenefits amounted to $422$783 and $490,$1,039, respectively.

Although the Company believes that it has adequately provided for any reasonably foreseeable outcomes related to tax audits and settlement, there is no assurance that the final tax outcome of its tax audits will not be different from that which is reflected in the Company’s income tax provisions. Such differences could have a material effect on the Company’s income tax provision, cash flow from operating activities and net income in the period in which such determination is made.

 

Tax assessments filed by Partpart of the Company'sCompany’s Israeli subsidiaries through the year ended December 31, 20112013 are considered to be final.

 

The Company is currently under audit in several jurisdictions for the tax years 2014 and onwards. Timing of the resolution of audits is highly uncertain and therefore, as of December 31, 2019, the Company cannot estimate the change in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from these audits within the next 12 months.

F - 34

F - 40

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 12:EQUITY

NOTE 13:- EQUITY

 

a.The common shares of the Company are traded on the NASDAQ and on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange.

 

Common shares confer upon their holders voting rights, the right to receive cash dividends and the right to share in excess assets upon liquidation of the Company.

 

b.Stock option plans:Share Incentive Plan:

 

In 2011, the Company'sCompany’s board of directors approved its 2011 Share Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”) pursuant to which the Company'sCompany’s employees, directors, officers, consultants, advisors, suppliers, business partner, customerpartners, customers and any other person or entity whose services are considered valuable are eligible to receive awards of share options, restricted shares, restricted share units and other share-based awards. Options granted under the 2011 Plan may be exercised for a period of up to six years from the date of grant and become exercisable in four equal, annual installments, beginning with the first anniversary of the date of the grant, or pursuant to such other schedule as may provide in the option agreement.

 

The total number of Common Shares available under the 2011 Plan was set at 4,000,000. Upon the approval of the 2011 Plan, the board of directors determined that no further awards would be issued under the Company'sCompany’s previously existing share incentive plans.

 

In February 2016, our Board of Directors approved the reservation of an additional 4,000,000 Common Shares for issuance under the 2011 Plan.

 

As of December 31, 2016, 3,900,2842019, 3,044,730 common shares of the Company were available for future grant under the 2011 Plan. Any options granted under the 2011 Plan which are forfeited, cancelled, terminated or expired, will become available for future grant under the 2011 Plan.

 

A summaryIn March 2018, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a re-pricing of some of the Company’s stock option activitiesoptions held by some of the Company’s senior employees. As a result of the re-pricing, 170,000 stock options at an exercise price range of $ 11.5 to $ 12.2 were re-priced to 141,229 stock options at an exercise price of $ 10.0 per share. The Company accounted for the re-pricing of the options above in 2016 isaccordance with ASC 718, as follows:a modification. The Company used the Binomial valuation model to calculate the incremental fair value for the re-priced options. Since there was no incremental value as a result of the modification, no additional expense was recorded in respect of the re-pricing of the respective options.

 

  Year ended December 31, 2016 
  Amount of
options
  

Weighted

average

exercise
price

  Weighted average
remaining
contractual life
(in years)
  Aggregate
intrinsic value
 
             
Outstanding at January 1, 2016  2,175,488   5.36   3.49  $9,274 
Granted  310,000   11.63         
Exercised  (276,170)  3.52         
Expired and forfeited  (71,535)  6.17         
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2016  2,137,783   6.91   3.43   15,171 
                 
Vested and expected to vest  2,085,779   6.85   3.41   14,927 
                 
Exercisable at December 31, 2016  1,172,950   4.84   2.56  $10,646 

In 2014, 2015 and 2016, the Company granted 340,000, 673,408 and 310,000 stock options to employees and directors, respectively.

F - 35

F - 41

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 12:EQUITY (Cont.)

NOTE 13:- EQUITY (Cont.)

A summary of the stock option activities in 2019 is as follows:

  Year ended December 31, 2019 
  Amount of options  

Weighted

average

exercise

  Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years)  Aggregate intrinsic value 
             
Outstanding at January 1, 2019  2,055,182   9.86   3.80  $2,594 
Granted  155,000   13.60         
Exercised  (177,872)  6.96         
Expired and forfeited  (162,898)  9.57         
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2019  1,869,412   10.25   3.21  $23,838 
                 
Vested and expected to vest  1,869,412   10.25   3.21  $23,838 
                 
Exercisable at December 31, 2019  970,408   9.34   2.41  $13,258 

 

The weighted average grant date fair values of the options granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019 were $ 3.19, $ 3.79$4.17, $3.43 and $ 4.30,$4.24, respectively.

All outstanding options are in the money as of December 31, 2016.

 

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 20162019 was $7,446, $10,294$5,739, $1,641 and $2,304,$2,301, respectively.

 

The options outstanding under the Company'sCompany’s stock option plans as of December 31, 20162019 have been separated into ranges of exercise priceprices as follows:

 

              Weighted 
  Options  Weighted     Options  Average 
  outstanding  Average  Weighted  Exercisable  Exercise 
  as of  remaining  average  as of  price of 
Ranges of December 31,  contractual  exercise  December 31,  Options 
exercise price 2016  Term  price  2016  Exercisable 
     (Years)  $     $ 
                
1.28-1.88  64,590   2.87   1.44   64,590   1.44 
2.06-2.50  273,972   1.69   2.40   273,972   2.40 
3.25-3.57  288,221   1.53   3.37   288,221   3.37 
4.52  74,000   2.40   4.52   43,000   4.52 
5.05-5.33  67,500   2.60   5.08   48,750   5.07 
6.07-6.81  230,000   3.15   6.48   174,167   6.38 
7.21-7.48  209,500   3.21   7.44   90,250   7.42 
8.22-9.73  500,000   4.63   8.80   140,000   8.65 
10.58-11.21  280,000   4.78   10.76   50,000   10.58 
12.43-13.02  150,000   5.69   12.73   -   - 
                     
   2,137,783   3.43   6.91   1,172,950   4.84 
              Weighted 
  Options  Weighted     Options  Average 
  outstanding  Average  Weighted  Exercisable  Exercise 
  as of  remaining  average  as of  price of 
Ranges of December 31,  contractual  exercise  December 31,  Options 
exercise price 2019  Term  price  2019  Exercisable 
     (Years)  $     $ 
                
1.26-6.10  12,158   1.33   2.75   12,158   2.75 
7.60  300,000   1.34   7.60   300,000   7.60 
8.45-8.96  95,000   2.48   8.88   63,750   8.93 
9.11-9.96  457,254   3.05   9.39   287,000   9.43 
10.21-11.21  145,000   4.11   10.94   55,000   10.69 
11.23  607,500   3.68   11.23   200,000   11.23 
11.99-12.40  90,000   3.16   12.13   52,500   12.17 
13.12  125,000   1.57   13.12   -   - 
13.28-15.60  37,500   5.25   15.14   -   - 
                     
   1,869,412   3.21   10.25   970,408   9.34 

F - 42

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 13:- EQUITY (Cont.)

 

The total equity-based compensation expenseexpenses related to all of the Company'sCompany’s equity-based awards, recognized for the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, was $1,067, $1,349$1,983, $1,942 and $1,955,$1,405 respectively. Such expenses are recorded as part selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.

 

c.As of December 31, 2016,2019, there was $3,288$2,567 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of up to four1.6 years.

 

d.During 2016,2017, 29,500 of the 88,500 restricted shares of Sapiens Decision, the Company'sCompany’s majority-owned subsidiary that were granted to one of the former shareholders of KPI in 2014 (as described in note 1(d)(3)) vested, thereby reducing the Company'sCompany’s percentage ownership of Sapiens Decision from 95.7%94.25% to 94.25%92.89%. During 2016,2017, Sapiens Decision granted 10,000122,730 options to certain of its employees to purchase shares of Sapiens Decision.

 

F - 36

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 12:EQUITY (Cont.)

e.Dividend:

 

On April 7, 2016,August 5, 2019, the Company'sCompany’s extraordinary general meeting of shareholders approved the distribution of a cash dividend of $0.20$0.22 per common share for a total amount of $9,786$11,009 that was paid during June 2016.September and October 2019.

 

On April 22, 2015, the Company's extraordinary general meeting of shareholders approved the distribution of a cash dividend of $0.15 per common share for a total amount of $7,186 that was paid during June and July 2015.

NOTE 14:- RELATED PARTIES TRANSACTIONS

NOTE 13:RELATED PARTIES TRANSACTIONS

 

Agreements with controlling shareholder and its affiliates:

 

The Company has in effect services agreements with certain companies that are affiliated with Formula, Systems (1985) Ltd. (“Formula”), Sapiens'Sapiens’ parent company (most recently since December 23, 2014 and thereafter), and Asseco, Sapiens’ ultimate parent company, pursuant to which the Company has received services amounting to approximately $1,100, $2,600$5,050, $4,455 and $6,100,$6,005, in aggregate for the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016.2019. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, the Company purchased from those affiliated companies an aggregate of approximately $200, $1,100$930, $320 and $1,000$194 of hardware and software. Furthermore, the Company paid to Formula $131 for the year ended December 31, 2016 in respect of the Company’s portion of the directors' fees payable to the Company’s Chairman of the Board, who serves as Chief Executive Officer of Formula.

 

On August 18, 2015, Sapiens completed the acquisition from Asseco Poland S.A. (“Asseco”) of all issued and outstanding shares of Insseco.Sapiens Software Solutions (Poland) Sp. z o.o. (formerly “Insseco Sp. z o.o.”) (“Sapiens Poland”). Asseco is the ultimate parent company of Sapiens, through its holdings in Formula. Please see note 1(d)(2) above for further information concerning this acquisition.

 

Under the share purchase agreement for that acquisition, Asseco committed to assign all customer contracts to InssecoSapiens Poland that relate to the intellectual property that the Company acquired as part of the acquisition. In the event that Asseco cannot obtain the consent of any customer to the assignment of its contract to Insseco,Sapiens Poland, Asseco will hold that customer'scustomer’s contract in trust for the benefit of Insseco.Sapiens Poland . Under that arrangement, in 2016, InssecoSapiens Poland invoiced Asseco in a back-to-back manner for all invoices issued by Asseco on Insseco'sSapiens Poland’s behalf to customers under those contracts that were not yet assigned by Asseco to Insseco.Sapiens Poland.

F - 43

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 14:- RELATED PARTIES TRANSACTIONS (Cont.)

 

During the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, Asseco provided back office and professional services and fixed assets to InssecoSapiens Poland in an amount totaling approximately $200, $1,700$1,600, and $1,900,$980 and $676, respectively.

 

As of December 31, 20152018, and 2016,2019, the Company had trade payables balances due to its related parties in amount of approximately $2,700$1,100 and $1,300,$1,640, respectively. In addition, as of December 31, 20152018 and 2016,2019, the Company had trade receivables balances due from its related parties in amount of approximately $3,200$1,000 and $1,400,$770, respectively.

 

F - 37

NOTE 15:- BASIC AND DILUTED NET EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
          
Numerator (thousands):            
             
Net income attributed to Sapiens’ shareholders $352  $13,785  $26,247 
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  350   -   - 
             
Net income used for earnings per share $702  $13,785  $26,247 
             
Denominator (thousands):            
             
Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted average number of common shares, net of treasury stock  49,170   49,827   50,031 
Stock options  756   279   622 
             
Denominator for diluted net earnings per share - adjusted weighted average number of shares  49,926   50,106   50,653 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 14:BASIC AND DILUTED NET EARNINGS PER SHARE

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Numerator:            
             
Net income attributed to Sapiens shareholders $14,463  $20,016  $19,336 
Adjustment to redeemable non-controlling interest  -   224   443 
             
Net income used for earnings per share $14,463  $20,240  $19,779 
             
Denominator (thousands):            
             
Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted average number of common shares, net of treasury stock  47,210   48,121   48,947 
Stock options and warrants  1,427   1,206   833 
             
Denominator for diluted net earnings per share - adjusted weighted average number of shares  48,637   49,327   49,780 

The weighted average number of shares related to outstanding anti-dilutive options and warrants excluded from the calculations of diluted net earnings per share was 599,287, 582,5701,282,305, 1,369,514 and 250,8090 for the years 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, respectively.

 

NOTE 15:GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

F - 44

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 16:- GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

 

a.The Company operates in a single reportable segment as a provider of software solutions. See Note 1 for a brief description of the Company'sCompany’s business. The data below is presented in accordance with ASC 280, "Segment Reporting"“Segment Reporting”.

 

b.Geographic information:

 

The following table sets forth revenues by country based on the billing address of the customer. Other than as shown below, no other country accounted for more than 10% of the Company'sCompany’s revenues during the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016.2019.

 

    Year ended December 31, 
    2014  2015  2016 
1. Revenues:            
               
  North America* $49,585  $61,332  $74,455 
  United Kingdom  34,961   42,580   46,892 
  Rest of Europe  28,351   32,897   35,535 
  Israel  28,821   28,315   29,085 
  Asia Pacific  15,732   20,512   30,223 
               
    $157,450  $185,636  $216,190 

F - 38

   

Year ended

December 31,

 
   2017  2018  2019 
1.Revenues:         
           
 North America*) $109,560  $136,477  $163,565 
 Europe**)  120,926   128,513   133,851 
 Asia Pacific  18,059   13,371   15,053 
 South Africa  20,649   11,346   13,205 
              
   $269,194  $289,707  $325,674 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

*)NOTE 15:GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Cont.)

* Revenue amounts forRevenues from North America that are shown in the above table consist primarily of revenues from the United States, except for approximately $558, $471$1,056, $649 and $854$476 of revenues derived from Canada induring the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016,2019, respectively.

 

    December 31, 
    2015  2016 
2. Property and equipment:        
           
  Israel $4,224  $5,987 
  North America  147   2,136 
  Others  1,304   1,684 
           
    $5,675  $9,807 
**)Revenues from Europe include UK, Israel and other European countries. Revenues from the United Kingdom (UK) amounted to $47,396, $38,815 and $41,051 during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively.

   December 31, 
   2018  2019 
2.Property and equipment:        
 Israel $4,149  $4,561 
 North America  2,514   3,112 
 APAC  982   7,593 
 Europe  870   1,335 
          
   $8,515  $16,601 

 

c.Major customer data:

 

The following table sets forth revenues from major customers duringFor the years ended December 31, 2014, 20152017, 2018 and 2016. 2019, no single customer contributed more than 10% to the Company’s total revenues.

 

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Customer A  11%  12%  14%

NOTE 16:SELECTED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA

a.Research and development expenses:

  Year ended December 31, 
  2014  2015  2016 
          
Total costs $17,446  $16,267  $22,033 
Less - capitalized software development costs  (6,094)  (6,032)  (5,545)
             
Research and development expenses, net $11,352  $10,235  $16,488 

F - 39

F - 45

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 16:SELECTED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA (Cont.)

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

b.Financial income, net:

Financial income:            
Interest $356  $657  $784 
Derivatives gains  -   230   849 
Foreign currency translation  883   556   191 
             
   1,239   1,443   1,824 
Financial expenses:            
Derivatives losses  397   -   - 
Foreign currency translation  586   981   735 
Bank charges and other  132   299   556 
             
   (1,115)  (1,280)  (1,291)
             
Financial income, net $124  $163  $533 

NOTE 17:SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

a.Share Purchase Agreement for Acquisition of StoneRiver

 

On February 14, 2017,NOTE 17:- REVENUE

Remaining performance obligations represent contracted revenue that has not yet been recognized, which includes deferred revenue and amounts that will be invoiced and recognized as revenue in future periods. The aggregate amount of consideration allocated to performance obligations either not satisfied or partially unsatisfied was approximately $134 million as of December 31, 2019. The Company expects to recognize approximately 59% in 2020 from remaining performance obligations as of December 31, 2019, and the remainder thereafter. Remaining performance obligations include the remaining non-cancelable, committed and fixed portion of these contracts for their entire duration; the remaining performance obligations related to professional services contracts that are on a T&M basis were excluded, as the Company entered into a share purchase agreementelected to apply the practical expedients in accordance with StoneRiver Group L.P. (or the "Seller") and StoneRiver, Inc. (or "StoneRiver"), for the acquisitionASC 606.

Disaggregation of all of the issued and outstanding share capital of StoneRiver. The Company consummated the acquisition in the first quarter in 2017. StoneRiver is a Denver, Colorado- based provider of technology solutions and services to the insurance industry.revenue:

 

The acquisition consideration is approximately $100 million in cash, subject to certain adjustments based on working capital, transaction expenses, unpaid debtfollowing table provides information about disaggregated revenue by type of contract, and certain litigation matters.timing of revenue recognition (in thousands):

  

Years ended December 31,

 
  2018  2019 
       
Type of contract        
T&M contracts $169,416  $192,153 
Fixed-priced contracts  120,291   133,521 
         
Total $289,707  $325,674 
         
Timing of revenue recognition        
Products transferred at a point in time $6,521  $8,543 
Products and services transferred over time  283,186   317,131 
         
Total $289,707  $325,674 

Contract balances:

 

Immediately prior to closing, the Company purchased a representationsThe following table provides information about trade receivables, unbilled receivables, contract assets and warranties insurance policy covering certain indemnifiable damages under the agreement (which is referred to as the "Insurance"). The Insurance provides for coverage of $12,500 in the aggregate and its term is in general three years (exceptcontract liabilities (deferred revenues) from contracts with respect to certain fundamental representations and warranties, as to which the term of the Insurance is six years).  In addition, two escrow funds were established by StoneRiver, for the purpose of enabling the indemnification of the Company for certain damages that are not fully recovered under the Insurance: (i) an escrow fund of $500 for a period of one year and (ii) an escrow fund of $2,000 for a period of 18 months.customers (in thousands):

 

F - 40

F - 46

 

 

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 17:- REVENUE (Cont.)

  December 31, 
  2018  2019 
       
Trade receivables  38,953   34,615 
Contract assets *)  13,846   6,095 
Short-term unbilled receivables **)  6,360   9,511 
Long-term unbilled receivables **)  -   362 
Deferred revenues (short-term contract liabilities)  18,057   21,021 
Long-term deferred revenues (long-term contract liabilities) ***)  702   216 

***)Included in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets

(*)Unbilled receivables relate to revenue recognized in excess of amounts invoiced as the Company has an unconditional right to invoice and receive payment in the future related to its fulfilled obligations.

 

NOTE 17:(**)SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Cont.)Contract assets relate to unbilled receivables, which represent revenue recognized on arrangements for which billings have not yet been presented to customers because the amounts were earned but not contractually billable as of the balance sheet date, and the right to consideration is generally subject to milestone completion, client acceptance or factors other than the passage of time.

No impairment loss was recognized in respect of the Company’s outstanding contract assets during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recognized $15,735 that was included in deferred revenues (short-term contract liability) balance at December 31, 2018.

NOTE 18:- SELECTED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA

a.Research and development expenses, net:

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
          
Total costs $37,522  $39,574  $43,043 
Less - capitalized software development costs  (5,567)  (5,160)  (5,665)
             
Research and development expenses, net $31,955  $34,414  $37,378 

F - 47

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 18:- SELECTED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA (Cont.)

 

b.Financial expense, net

  

Year ended

December 31,

 
  2017  2018  2019 
Financial income:            
Interest $525  $181  $382 
Foreign currency translation  309   867   991 
Derivatives gains  -   -   565 
             
   834   1,048   1,938 
Financial expenses:            
Foreign currency translation, bank charges and other  1,990   1,059   1,646 
Interest  1,688   3,225   3,030 
Derivatives losses  166   755   30 
             
   (3,844)  (5,039)  (4,706)
             
Financial expense, net $(3,010) $(3,991) $(2,768)

NOTE 19:- SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

a)Acquistion of sum.cumo GmbH

On February 6, 2020, the Company completed the acquisition of sum.cumo GmbH (“sum.cumo”). Sum.cumo services insurers in the DACH region (Germany, Switzerland and Austria), helping them to set up their business model and obtain a marketing edge. sum.cumo’s experts in consulting, user experience, marketing and technology enable the region’s insurers to launch successful e-commerce environments. The total purchase price was approximately $24.7 million in cash, an additional $4.4 million in restricted shares units and $2.2 million in future contingent payments, both subject to earn out-based and retention specific criteria. 

b)HSBC Term Loan Credit Agreement

 

On February 28, 2017,March 18, 2020, the Company (via our wholly-owned subsidiary, Sapiens Americas Corporation,Technologies (1982) Ltd., or the Borrower) entered into a secured credit agreement, or the Credit Agreement, with HSBC Bank USA, National Association,plc (or the "Lender"“Lender”) as financing for, the acquisition of StoneRiver.. Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Company borrowed $40$20 million, or the Bank Loan, for a five-yearone-year term. The Bank Loan will mature in February 2022on March 16, 2021, whereas the interest will be paid and is payable in equal consecutivecalculated on a quarterly principal installments of principal and accrued interest. The Borrower is entitled to prepay the Bank Loan at any time (on any interest payment date) without penalty upon notice to the Lender.basis. The Bank Loan bears interest at the rate of LIBOR plus 1.85%2%.

The repayment of the Bank Loan is secured by first priority liens over: (i) substantially all assets of the Borrower and its US subsidiaries; and (ii) the shares of the Borrower held by Sapiens International Corporation B.V. Certain affiliated entities of the Borrower have guaranteed the repayment of the Bank Loan. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and negative covenants, which include, without limitation, restrictions on indebtedness, liens, investments, and certain dispositions with respect to the property secured by the lien. The Credit Agreement also contains customary events of default that entitle the Lender to cause any or all of the Company's indebtedness to become immediately due and payable and to foreclose on the lien, and includes customary grace periods before certain events are deemed events of default.

c.Dispute with Customer

Subsequent to the balance sheet date, the Company received a letter from one of its significant customers, in which the customer alleged that the Company has materially breached a software development project agreement between them. The Company informed the customer that it has not materially breached any of its obligations under the agreement and that the customer itself has materially breached the agreement. Work on the project has been halted due to the dispute. The Company believes that this does not have an impact on its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

- - - - - - - -

 

F - 41

Item 19.Exhibits

 

Please see the exhibit index incorporated herein by reference.

88

SIGNATURE

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

SAPIENS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION N.V.
By:/s/ Roni Al Dor
Roni Al Dor
President & Chief Executive Officer

Date: April 27, 2017

89

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
No.
Exhibit Description
1.1Articles of Association of Sapiens International Corporation N.V., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed with the SEC on March 29, 2016)
4.1Sapiens International Corporation N.V. 1992 Stock Option and Incentive Plan, as amended and restated (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 28.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (SEC File No. 333-64208), filed with the SEC on June 9, 1993, and to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (SEC File No. 333-10622), filed with the SEC on July 22, 1999)
4.2Sapiens International Corporation N.V. 2003 Share Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c)2 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2006, filed with the SEC on June 28, 2007)
4.3Sapiens International Corporation N.V. 2005 Special Incentive Share Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c)3 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2006, filed with the SEC on June 28, 2007)
4.4Sapiens International Corporation N.V. 2011 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (SEC File No. 333-177834), filed with the SEC on November 9, 2011)
4.5Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 21, 2011, by and among Sapiens International Corporation N.V. and certain of its shareholders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form F-3 (SEC File No. 333-187185), filed with the SEC on March 11, 2013)
8.1��List of Subsidiaries*
12.1Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/Rule 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act*
12.2Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/Rule 15d-14(a) under the Exchange Act*
13.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b)/Rule 15d-14(b) under the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
15.1Consent of Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of EY Global, independent registered public accounting firm*
101The following financial information from Sapiens International Corporation N.V.’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language):
(i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2016;
(ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016;
(iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016;

(iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016;

(v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016; and

(vi) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged as blocks of text. *

F - 48

 

 

* Filed herewith

90