UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2015
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _________ to _________.
Commission File Number: 000-53723
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| Florida | 65-1102237 | |
| (State or other jurisdiction of | (IRS Employee | |
| incorporation or organization) | Identification No.) | |
| 39 Old Ridgebury Road | ||
| Danbury, CT | 06180 | |
| (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (514) 840-3697
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
None
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, $0.00001 Par Value
(Title of class)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. [ ] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. [ ] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the issuer was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. [ ] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). [ ] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company filer. See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large Accelerated Filer [ ] | Accelerated Filer [ ] | Non-Accelerated Filer [ ] | Smaller Reporting Company [X] |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). [ ] Yes [X] No
On September 30, 2014, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter, the aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $14,662,721, based upon the closing price on that date of the Common Stock of the registrant on the OTC Bulletin Board system of $0.0183. For purposes of this response, the registrant has assumed that its directors, executive officers and beneficial owners of 5% or more of its Common Stock are deemed affiliates of the registrant.
As of as of May 17, 2016, the registrant had 1,219,820,933 shares of its Common Stock, $0.00001 par value, outstanding.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Rule 175 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Rule 3b-6 of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, our beliefs and our assumptions. Words such as “anticipate,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks” and “estimates” and variations of these words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this Form 10-K. Investors should carefully consider all of such risks before making an investment decision with respect to the Company’s stock. The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements for Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Such discussion represents only the best present assessment from our Management.
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General Overview
We are a Florida corporation formed on April 8, 2001. We were originally organized to be a blank check company.
On June 8, 2009, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Novo Energies Corporation”. As described in a report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 26, 2009, a majority of shareholders executed a written consent in lieu of an Annual Meeting (the “Written Consent”) effecting the change of the name of our business from “Atlantic Wine Agencies, Inc.” to “Novo Energies Corporation” on June 8, 2009 to better reflect what we then intended to be our future operations. We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on June 8, 2009 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval.
On June 23, 2009, the Board of Directors approved a 3-for-1 forward stock split. Accordingly, all share and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted in the accompanying financial statements.
On July 30, 2009, Novo Energies Corporation (“Novo”) formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, WTL Renewable Energy, Inc. (“WTL”). WTL was established as a Canadian Federal Corporation whose business is to initially research available technologies capable of transforming plastic and tires into useful energy commodities. Simultaneously, WTL also intended to plan, build, own, and operate renewable energy plants throughout Canada utilizing a third party technology and using plastic and tire waste as feedstock. On May 8, 2012, the name was changed to Immunovative Canada, Inc.
On May 17, 2011, Novo entered into an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Immunovative Clinical Research, Inc. (“ICRI”), a Nevada corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Immunovative Therapies, Ltd. (“ITL”), an Israeli corporation pursuant to which the Company and ICRI intended to pursue a merger resulting in Novo owning ICRI.
In April 2012, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Immunovative, Inc.” As described in a report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2012, a majority of shareholders executed a written consent in lieu of an Annual Meeting (the “Written Consent”) effecting the change of the name of our business from “Novo Energies Corporation” to “Immunovative, Inc.” on April 2, 2012 to better reflect what we then intended to be our future operations. We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on April 30, 2012 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval.
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On January 8, 2013, the Company received from ITL, a notice by which ITL purported to terminate the License Agreement dated December 9, 2011 between the Company and ITL (the “ITL Notice”), along with alleged damages. It is the Company’s position that ITL breached the License Agreement by delivering the ITL Notice and, that prior to the ITL Notice, the License Agreement was in full force and, on January 17, 2013 and that the Company had complied in all material respect with the License Agreement therefore the Company believes that there are no damages to ITL. As such, on January 17, 2013, the Company filed a lawsuit against ITL, which included the request for various injunctive relief against ITL for damages stemming from this breach.
On February 19, 2013, the Company and ITL entered into a settlement agreement whereby the parties have agreed to the following: (1) the Company will submit a letter to the Court advising the Court that the parties have reached a settlement and that the Company is withdrawing its motion, (2) ITL will pay the Company $20,000, (3) ITL will issue to the Company, ITL’s share capital equivalent to 9% of the issued and outstanding shares of ITL, (4) the Company will change its name and (5) the settling parties agree that the license agreement will be terminated.
On March 13, 2013, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Tauriga Sciences, Inc.” from “Immunovative, Inc.” We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on March 13, 2013 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval. The Company’s symbol change to “TAUG” was approved by FINRA effective April 9, 2013.
On May 31, 2013, the Company signed an exclusive North American license agreement with Green Innovations, Inc. (“Green Innovations”) for the commercialization of Bamboo-Based “100% Tree Free” products including hospital grade biodegradable disinfectant wipes. This 5 year license agreement functioned such that profits were to be split equally between Tauriga and Green Innovations. In consideration for such agreement Tauriga agreed to pay Green Innovations $250,000 USD and 4,347,826 shares of TAUG common stock. Tauriga received 625,000 shares of Green Innovations common stock as well. The agreement was later amended and completed for the following consideration: Tauriga paid Green Innovations a total of $143,730 USD and an additional 2,500,000 shares of TAUG common stock (for an aggregate share issuance of 6,847,826 shares). As of Year End March 31, 2014, Tauriga has not generated any revenues from the license agreement. And this agreement expires on June 1, 2018.
On October 29, 2013 the Company entered into a Strategic Alliance with Synthetic Biology Pioneer Bacterial Robotics LLC to Develop and Commercialize Industry Specific Bacterial Robots “BactoBots”. Under terms of the Agreement the companies will jointly develop a nuclear industry-specific Bacterial Robot (“BactoBots(TM)”). BactoBots are ubiquitous microscopic robots applicable to therapeutics, wastewater, and chemicals. Specifically, Bacterial Robotics owns a family of intellectual property beginning with U.S Patent # 8,354,267 B2 that relates generally to genetically enhanced bacteria that conduct specific functions. Bacterial Robotics initial focus with Tauriga is developing a proprietary BactoBot to remediate wastewater generated by nuclear energy production.
On November 25, 2013, the Company entered a definitive agreement to acquire Cincinnati, Ohio based Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”), a developer of alternative cleantech energy platforms using proprietary microbial solutions that creates electricity while consuming polluting molecules from wastewater. Upon consummation of the proposed transaction, which has been unanimously ratified by Tauriga’s board of directors, Pilus Energy will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tauriga. In addition certain advisors of Pilus Energy will be incorporated into the existing management team of Tauriga and will report directly to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Stella M. Sung. A total of $100,000 was paid by Tauriga to Bacterial Robotics in connection with the execution of this November 2013 definitive agreement for the acquisition of Pilus Energy.
On January 28, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of Cincinnati, Ohio based synthetic biology pioneer Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”). Structurally Pilus Energy will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Tauriga (pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreement) and will maintain its headquarters location in the State of Ohio. The management of Pilus Energy will report directly to both the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) of Tauriga with the expectation that at least one board seat of Tauriga will be allocated to a Pilus Energy affiliate. The Board of Directors of Tauriga Sciences unanimously approved both the previously announced definitive merger agreement on October 25, 2013 as well as the completion of the acquisition inclusive of amended closing terms. In consideration for early closing of this acquisition, shareholders of Pilus Energy received 100,000,000 shares of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. common stock.
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Both management teams are highly confident that the capital and liquidity needs will be sufficiently met through commitments from existing institutional investors and progress in non-dilutive funding initiatives (i.e., grants, low interest loans). The main benefits in accelerating the closing of this acquisition are to enhance Tauriga’s access to capital markets and enable the intrinsic value of Pilus Energy’s technology to be realized sooner through demonstrable progress in the commercialization process. Pilus Energy utilizes a proprietary clean technology to convert industrial customer “wastewater” into value. This wastewater-to-value (“WTV”) proposition provides customers with substantial revenue-generating and cost-saving opportunities. Pilus Energy is converging digester, fermenter, scrubber, and other proven legacy technologies into a single scalable Electrogenic Bioreactor (“EBR”) platform. This transformative microbial fuel cell technology is the basis of the Pilus Cell(TM). The EBR harnesses genetically enhanced bacteria, also known as bacterial robots, or BactoBots(TM), that remediate water, harvest direct current (DC) electricity, and produce economically important gases and chemicals. The EBR accomplishes this through bacterial metabolism, specifically cellular respiration of nearly four hundred carbon and nitrogen molecules typically called pollutants in wastewater. Pilus Energy’s highly metabolic bacteria are non-pathogenic. Because of the mediated biofilm formation, these wastewater-to-value BactoBots(TM) resist heavy metal poisoning, swings of pH, and survive in a 4-to-45 degree Celsius temperature range. Additionally, the BactoBots(TM) are anaerobically and aerobically active, even with low biological oxygen demand (“BOD”) and chemical oxygen demand (“COD”).
On March 26, 2014, the Company announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”) has commenced a five-phase, $1,700,000 USD commercial pilot test (“commercial pilot”) with the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), utilizing Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. (NYSE:CBI) (“CB&I”) Federal Services serving as the third-party-contractor through the EPA’s Test and Evaluation (“T&E”) facility. This five phase commercial pilot will include significant testing of the Pilus Energy Electrogenic Bioreactor (“EBR”) synthetic biology platform for generating value from wastewater. This commercial pilot is of great importance to the Company, because it represents the scale up from the benchtop (laboratory) scale to commercial (industrial) scale. The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (“MSDGR”), which is co-located with EPA’s T&E facility, will host the commercial scale EBR prototype at its main treatment plant in Cincinnati.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Common Stock Issuances
Subsequent to March 31, 2015, the Company issued additional shares of common stock as follows: (i) 29,188,403 shares in connection with the Company’s amended stock purchase agreement with Hanover I; (ii) 264,125,000 shares to consultants and board members; and (iii) 27,500,000 shares for a financing fee related to a convertible debenture issuance.
Escrow Agreement – April 10, 2015
On April 10, 2015, the Company received $24,970 cash pursuant to a settlement and assignment agreement between a director of the Company and a stockholder.
Typenex Settlement Agreement
On June 1, 2015, the Company and Typenex entered into a Settlement Agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby both the Company and Typenex have agreed to settle all claims and obligations under the January 16, 2015 settlement agreement (the “Prior Settlement Agreement”) in consideration of the Company paying Typenex the amount of $230,000. Through the date of the Agreement Typenex earned approximately $169,000 in net sales proceeds from the sale of shares issued under the Prior Settlement Agreement.
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Security Purchase Agreement
On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with various accredited investors for the sale of certain debentures with aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $133,000. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the investors were granted 13,300,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee. These shares have not yet been issued. Additionally, the Company was required to repay the amounts raised under the Purchase Agreement prior to December 1, 2015 except as described below. The Purchase Agreement provides the Company with the following prepayment options: (i) if prepaid prior to August 31, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 10% premium and (ii) if prepaid after August 31, 2015 but prior to December 1, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 20% premium. In the event the Company has not repaid the amounts as described above, on December 1, 2015 the Company has the option to convert all amounts raised under the Purchase Agreements into shares of common stock based on a 20% discount to the Company’s VWAP (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) for the three Trading Days (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) prior to December 1, 2015. Excluding the 13,300,000 commitment shares, in May 2016 the Company agreed to issue 33,900,000 shares of its common stock to settle all obligations under these Purchase Agreements.
Security Purchase Agreement – Union Capital, LLC
On June 1, 2015 the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Union Purchase Agreement”) with Union Capital, LLC (“Union”) for the purchase of a 7% Convertible Redeemable Note in the principal amount of $104,000 with a maturity date of June 1, 2016 (the “Union Note”). The Company received gross proceeds of $100,000 under the Union Note. The Company granted Union 12,500,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee in consideration of the Union Note. Pursuant to the terms of the Union Note, at any time Union may convert any principal and interest due to it at a 20% discount to the lowest closing bid price of Company common stock for the five trading days prior to the conversion notice. Additionally, the discount will be adjusted on a ratchet basis in the event the Company offers a more favorable discount rate or look-back period to a third party during the term of the Union Note. Union will not be allowed to convert into shares of common stock that would result in it beneficially owning more than 9.99% of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock. The Company may prepay the amounts under the Union Note as follows: (i) if prepaid within ninety days, the Company must pay a 15% premium on all principal and interest outstanding and (ii) if prepaid after ninety days but before the one hundred and eighty-one day, the Company must pay a 30% premium on all principal and interest outstanding. The Company intends to use its best efforts to repay the Union Note within the first ninety days. The Company agreed to reserve 33,000,000 shares of its common stock to satisfy its obligations under the Union Note. This reserve will be increased to three times the number of share of common stock upon the approval of the Company’s stockholders of an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock. The Company agreed to call a special meeting solely for such purpose with fifteen days of the Union Note.
Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation and Filing of Schedule 14A
On July 9, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors (“BOD”) approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized common stock from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 shares and on July 17, 2015, the Company filed Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission calling for a special meeting of the stockholders to be held on July 27, 2015 to approve the amendment.
On July 27, 2015 the Company’s stockholders approved an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock of the Company from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 at its Special Meeting of Stockholders held on July 27, 2015 at the Law Offices of Nixon Peabody LLP in Midtown Manhattan (the “Special Meeting”). At the Special Meeting, there were 480,655,929 shares of common stock represented either by proxy or in person of the 929,825,933 shares of common stock entitled to vote, constituting a quorum. Of those shares, there were 433,331,977, or 90.2%, that voted in favor of the proposal recommended by the Board of Directors. The remaining votes were cast either against or as abstentions regarding the proposal.
Resignation and Separation Agreement – Stella Sung
On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung submitted her resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD and as CEO and CFO of the Company. Dr. Sung received a payment of $41,500, which constituted a one-time separation payment of $20,000, accrued salary of $14,000 and expense reimbursements of $7,500.
Appointment of Seth Shaw and Ghalia Lahlou
Simultaneously with Dr. Sung’s resignation, the BOD appointed Seth M. Shaw as the Chairman of the BOD and the Company’s new CEO and Ghalia Lahlou as its new interim CFO. Compensation arrangements for Mr. Shaw have not been determined at this time. Ms. Lahlou will receive annual compensation of $96,000.
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Resignation of Dr. Michael Brennan
On July 10, 2015, Michael Brennan, MD, PhD submitted his resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD.
Convertible Debenture Agreement – Group 10 Holdings LLC
On July 16, 2015, the Company entered into an $80,000 20% OID convertible debenture with Group 10 Holdings LLC.
PCAOB Censure of Cowan Gunteski & Co. LLC
On July 23, 2015, The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“Board” or “PCAOB”) censured the registered public accounting firm Cowan, Gunteski & Co., P.A. (“Cowan” or the “Firm”) and censured William Meyler, CPA (“Meyler”). The Board imposed these sanctions on the basis of its findings concerning the Firm’s and Meyler’s (collectively, “Respondents”): (1) violations of Section 10A(j) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”), Exchange Act Rule 10A-2, and PCAOB rules and standards. Cowan was the predecessor independent registered public accounting of the Company. As a result of this censure, the Company was forced to have their consolidated financial statements re-audited by a new independent registered public accounting firm.
Delisting from the OTCQB Exchange
On July 31, 2015, shares of the Company were delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to OTC Pink Limited Information Tier. On July 23, 2015 (via the PCAOB Public Censure), the Company became aware that the Company’s predecessor audit firm, Cowan, Gunteski & Co P.A. (the “Predecessor Audit Firm”) violated Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation SX, Rule 2-01 as well as certain standards with respect to the PCAOB independence rules with respect to the Predecessor Audit Firm’s audit report with respect to the Company year ended March 31, 2014 financial statements (the “Order”). Specifically the Predecessor Audit Firm failed to adhere to the SEC regulations with respect to the partner rotation rules. These rules require that the engagement partner as well as the quality concurring reviewer must be rotated off of the engagement for 5 years (cooling off period) after engaged in those roles for a period of 5 years. The Predecessor Audit Firm did not do this.
As a result of the non-compliance with the SEC regulations, on the morning of Thursday, July 30, 2015, the Company petitioned the OTC Markets in writing to extend the existing seven day OTCQB listing extension by a total of 60 additional days until close of business October 5, 2015. The OTC Markets panel denied the request and notified the Company it would be moved from the OTCQB to the OTC Pink Limited Information category effective at market open Friday July 31, 2015.
Disposal of Natural Wellness Business
On August 11, 2015 the Company formally divested (discontinued) its Natural Wellness Business. The business mainly consisted of a CBD infused topical lotion called TopiCanna as well as a line of Cannabis Complement products that were intended to compliment individuals who were consistently using medicinal cannabis related product. On August 11, 2015, the Company sold the balance of its inventory of TopiCanna and Cannabis Complement products for a one-time cash payment of $20,462. As a result of the disposal of this business, the Company reported a loss on disposal of $229,904, as reflected in the chart below:
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
BALANCE SHEET FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | |||||||
| Assets of discontinued operations | $ | 209,442 | - | |||||
| Liabilities of discontinued operations | - | - | ||||||
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TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| Revenues | $ | 96,161 | $ | - | ||||
| Cost of goods sold | 41,802 | - | ||||||
| Gross profit | 54,359 | - | ||||||
| Operating expenses | ||||||||
| General and administrative | 178,002 | - | ||||||
| Impairment of notes receivable | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of license agreements | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of patents | - | - | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization expense | 1,757 | - | ||||||
| Total operating expenses | 179,759 | - | ||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations | $ | (125,400 | ) | - | ||||
In addition, the pro-forma effect of the disposal on the consolidated financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, assuming the transaction occurred as of April 1, 2013 is reflected in the chart below:
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Loss on disposal of Natural Wellness (subsidiary)
| Cash | $ | 87,894 | ||
| Inventory, at cost | 90,987 | |||
| Prepaid Expenses | 21,219 | |||
| Property and equipment, net | 9,342 | |||
| Cash received for sale of inventory | 20,462 | |||
| Loss on disposal of continuing operations | $ | 229,904 |
Non-convertible Debt Financing – Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd.
On September 30, 2015, the Company entered into a debt facility of $180,000 in non-convertible debt financing from Singapore-based institutional investor Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd. (“ASP”). The debt carries a fixed interest rate per annum of 11.50% (“the Designated Rate”) payable in full by December 23, 2015 (“the Maturity Date”). Both parties have discussed the possibility of amending terms, if necessary, under the assumption that both parties mutually agree to such amendment. The Company received cash from the note of $90,000 ($75,000 wired directly to the Company and $15,000 wired directly from ASP to compensate a consultant).
The balance of this $180,000 or the other $90,000 was wired directly to a Japanese based consumer product firm called Eishin, Inc.
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The Company had entered into an agreement to acquire common shares equivalent to 20.1% of Eishin Co., Ltd. (“Eishin”), a high growth Japan-based company focusing on providing solutions to improve automobile combustion efficiency. “Eco-Spray”, Eishin’s key product made from 100% natural ingredients, is distributed in numerous Asian markets including China, Japan, Korea, India, UAE, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Philippines and Myanmar, and is currently being tested for expansion in North America. The Company has agreed to make an investment in Eishin for a total of $180,000, of which half was paid on October 1, 2015 and the remainder to be paid by the end of October 31, 2015.
The Company has not received any type of default notice with respect to this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Additionally, the Company has not received any shares in Eishin Co., Ltd. up to this point. The Company is currently in discussions with ASP to amend the original terms of this non-convertible debenture, specifically to reduce the face value of this note from $180,000 to $90,000 and forgo receipt of any shares of Eishin Co., Ltd.
Lastly on October 9, 2015, ASP Managing Director (Yuhi Horiguchi) notified the Company via email that any and all warrants that had been previously mentioned in the $180,000 note were fully cancelled. So there are no warrants in existence, in accordance with this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Nor have there been any defaults that ASP has notified the Company.
Lawsuit Filed Against Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA
On November 4, 2015, the Company filed a lawsuit against its predecessor audit firm Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA in Federal Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida). The case alleges, among other things, that Cowan Gunteski committed malpractice with respect to the audit of the Company’s FY 2014 financial statements (as illustrated in the PCAOB Public Censure of July 23, 2015) and then misrepresented to the Company with respect about its ability to re-issue an independent opinion for FY 2014 financial statements. On July 31, 2015, the Company was delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to the OTC Pink Limited Information Tier due to its inability to file its FY 2015 Form 10K. The lawsuit was expected by the Company and its counsel to take up to 18 months to complete, from the date it was filed (November 4, 2015).
The Company in its lawsuit seeks damages against Cowan Gunteski (and its malpractice insurance policy) exceeding $3,000,000. There is no guarantee that the Company will be successful in this lawsuit.
Subsequent to the filing of the lawsuit, the Company was notified that the lawsuit was temporarily suspended so that the Company and Cowan can attempt to mediate this case. On December 30, 2015, the Company was notified that Daniel F. Kolb was appointed as the mediator.
Mediation commenced on February 3, 2016. During these efforts, the Company had been offered settlement amounts, but none that have been satisfactory.
On March 22, 2016 the Company decided that its good faith efforts to settle its ongoing litigation with Cowan Gunteski & Co. P.A. have proven unsuccessful. Therefore, the Board of Directors of the Company unanimously agreed to proceed to trial. The case is expected to proceed in Federal District Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida) with an expectation that the venue will be challenged. The Company is continuing to seek the assistance of independent experts, to help ascribe dollar amounts for certain damages suffered by the Company (“provable damages”). At this point in time, the Company has realized out of pocket cash losses and debts (inclusive of liquidated damages) that exceed $850,000. Additional potential damages include but are not limited to: inability to properly maintain Pilus Energy’s Intellectual Property (“Pilus IP”), the July 31, 2015 delisting of the Company shares from OTCQB to Pink Sheets, loss of market capitalization (“market cap”), loss of trading liquidity (“trading volume”), and loss of substantial business opportunities. In aggregate the Company intends to seek monetary award(s), during trial, in excess of $3,000,000. That figure is expected to continually increase as additional time lapses.
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On May 10, 2016, the Company was notified of an Order Reopening Case, Scheduling Order for Pretrial Conference set for December 7, 2016 before Judge Robin L. Rosenberg, Trial set for January 23, 2017 in West Palm Beach Division, and a Calendar Call set for January 18, 2017.
Arbitration – Cherry Baekert LLP
On November 23, 2015, the Company had its arbitration date in Miami, Florida at the law office of Pollack, Pollack and Kogan against Cherry Baekert LLP (a consultant of the Company). This arbitration was concerning outstanding invoices of $31,280 that Cherry Baekert believed was owed from the Company pursuant to two separate engagement letters entered into in 2014. Prior to November 23, 2015, the Company had already paid $25,000 to Cherry Baekert pursuant to these above mentioned agreements.
The arbitrator, Lawrence Saichek, ruled against the Company on December 29, 2015 awarding Cherry Baekert the full $31,280 plus legal fee reimbursement, and court costs reimbursed. The total award was $47,568. Since that time, the number has grown to $51,387. On April 25, 2016, the Company made a $15,000 payment to Cherry Baekert towards this outstanding amount. Therefore, the remaining balance is now $36,387. In addition, Cherry Baekert, as a good faith measure, granted the Company until June 30, 2016 to pay the balance. There can be no guarantees that the Company will be able to meet that deadline.
Appointment of Mr. Keith M. Berman to the Board of Directors
On April 15, 2016, the Company appointed Mr. Keith M. Berman as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Berman will serve as an independent director and with this appointment, The Company’s Board of Directors is now comprised of five members, four of which the Company believes qualify as independent directors under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Currently, Mr. Berman serves as the Principal Executive Officer, Secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of Decision Diagnostics Corp. (OTC PINK: DECN).
Specifically, Mr. Berman will leverage his vast experience and knowledge in the life sciences space to assist the Company in its potential merger and acquisition activities. In addition, Mr. Berman has important experience in prosecuting major corporate litigation as he has been instrumental in Decision Diagnostics’ litigation against a major U.S. based pharmaceutical company.
Private Placement – April 18, 2016
On April 18, 2016, the Company completed an equity private placement for $105,500 to date comprised of accredited individual investors as well as one institutional investor. The terms of this private placement are as follows: $0.004 per share of common stock with a related three year warrant for 40% of each share of common stock purchased at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. The warrants require the investors to pay cash to exercise the warrants and do not allow for cashless exercise. All shares to be issued will be “restricted securities” as such term is defined by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company collected $7,500 of this in March 2016, and the remaining funds in April 2016 at the time the shares and warrants were issued.
The proceeds from this private placement will be used for working capital purposes, most specifically to fund the Company’s ongoing litigation against Cowan Gunteski Co. P.A., and settle some outstanding obligations and establish new business opportunities for the Company.
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Reports to Security Holders
We intend to furnish our shareholders annual reports containing financial statements audited by our independent registered public accounting firm and to make available quarterly reports containing unaudited financial statements for each of the first three quarters of each year. We file Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Current Reports on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission in order to meet our timely and continuous disclosure requirements. We may also file additional documents with the Commission if they become necessary in the course of our company’s operations.
The public may read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.
Government Regulations
As distributors and importers of hygienic and household paper products, including products used for food packaging and storage, we are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. We believe that the products we intend to distribute are in compliance, in all material respects, with the laws and regulations administered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
We believe that we are and will continue to be in compliance in all material respects with applicable statutes and the regulations passed in the United States. There are no current orders or directions relating to our company with respect to the foregoing laws and regulations.
Environmental Regulations
We do not believe that we are or will become subject to any environmental laws or regulations of the United States. While our products and business activities do not currently violate any laws, any regulatory changes that impose additional restrictions or requirements on us or on our products or potential customers could adversely affect us by increasing our operating costs or decreasing demand for our products or services, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Employees
As of March 31, 2015, we had a total of two consultants devoting substantially full-time services to the Company.
Available Information
All reports of the Company filed with the SEC are available free of charge through the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. In addition, the public may read and copy materials filed by the Company at the SEC’s Public Reference Room located at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may also obtain additional information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330.
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The following important factors among others, could cause our actual operating results to differ materially from those indicated or suggested by forward-looking statements made in this Form 10-K or presented elsewhere by management from time to time.
There are numerous and varied risks, known and unknown, that may prevent us from achieving our goals. If any of these risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operation may be materially adversely affected. In such case, the trading price of our common stock could decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment.
Risks Related to Our Business
We have sustained recurring losses since inception and expect to incur additional losses in the foreseeable future.
We were formed on April 8, 2001 and have reported annual net losses since inception. For our years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we experienced net losses of $5,088,956 and $12,168,772, respectively. We used cash in operating activities of $1,844,519 and $1,919,415 in 2015 and 2014, respectively. As of March 31, 2015, we had an accumulated deficit of $49,243,640.
In addition, we expect to incur additional losses in the foreseeable future, and there can be no assurance that we will ever achieve profitability. Our future viability, profitability and growth depend upon our ability to successfully operate, expand our operations and obtain additional capital. There can be no assurance that any of our efforts will prove successful or that we will not continue to incur operating losses in the future. Our management is devoting substantially all of its efforts to developing its products and services and there can be no assurance that our efforts will be successful. There is no assurance that can be given that management’s actions will result in our profitable operations or the resolution of our liquidity problems.
Because we are an early development stage company with no products near commercialization, we expect to incur significant additional operating losses.
We are an early development stage company and we expect to incur substantial additional operating expenses over the next several years as our research, development, pre-clinical testing, regulatory approval and clinical trial activities increase. The amount of our future losses and when, if ever, we will achieve profitability are uncertain. We have no products that have generated any material commercial revenue and do not expect to generate significant revenues from the commercial sale of our products in the near future, if ever. Our ability to generate revenue and achieve profitability will depend on, among other things, the following:
| ● | successful completion and development of our Pilus related products; | |
| ● | establishing manufacturing, sales, and marketing arrangements, either alone or with third parties; and | |
| ● | raising sufficient funds to finance our activities. |
We might not succeed at all, or at any, of these undertakings. If we are unsuccessful at some or all of these undertakings, our business, prospects, and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.
The market for our technology and revenue generation avenues for our products may be slow to develop, if at all.
The market for our Pilus related products may be slower to develop or smaller than estimated or it may be more difficult to build the market than anticipated. The medical community may resist our products or be slower to accept them than we anticipate. Revenues from our products may be delayed or costs may be higher than anticipated which may result in our need for additional funding. We anticipate that our principal route to market will be through commercial distribution partners. These arrangements are generally non-exclusive and have no guaranteed sales volumes or commitments. The partners may be slower to sell our products than anticipated. Any financial, operational or regulatory risks that affect our partners could also affect the sales of our products. In the current economic environment, hospitals and clinical purchasing budgets may exercise greater restraint with respect to purchases, which may result in purchasing decisions being delayed or denied. If any of these situations were to occur this could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and future prospects.
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We may need to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity offerings, debt financings or corporate collaboration and licensing arrangements. Any additional funds that we obtain may not be on terms favorable to us or our stockholders and may require us to relinquish valuable rights.
As of March 31, 2015, our available cash balance was $209,098. We will need to raise additional funds to pay outstanding vendor invoices and execute our business plan. Our future cash flows depend on our ability to market and sell our common stock and into sublicensing. There can be no assurance that additional funds will be available when needed from any source or, if available, will be available on terms that are acceptable to us.
We will not generate significate revenues from our products in the near future. Therefore, for the foreseeable future, we will have to fund all of our operations and capital expenditures from cash on hand, public or private equity offerings, debt financings, bank credit facilities or corporate collaboration and licensing arrangements. We believe that our existing cash on hand will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operating requirements for approximately the next five months. However, we may need to raise additional funds more quickly if one or more of our assumptions prove to be incorrect or if we choose to expand our product development efforts more rapidly than we presently anticipate. We also may decide to raise additional funds before we require them if we are presented with favorable terms for raising capital.
If we seek to sell additional equity or debt securities, obtain a bank credit facility or enter into a corporate collaboration or licensing arrangement, we may not obtain favorable terms for us and/or our stockholders or be able to raise any capital at all, all of which could result in a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. The sale of additional equity or debt securities, if convertible, could result in dilution to our stockholders. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed obligations and could also result in covenants that would restrict our operations. Raising additional funds through collaboration or licensing arrangements with third parties may require us to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams, research programs or product candidates, or to grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us or our stockholders. In addition, we could be forced to discontinue product development, reduce or forego sales and marketing efforts and forego attractive business opportunities, all of which could have an adverse impact on our business and results of operations.
If we issue additional shares in the future, it will result in the dilution of our existing stockholders.
We have and may continue to experience substantial dilution. On July 27, 2015, our stockholders voted to amend our articles of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock we may issue from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 shares of common stock with a par value of $0.001. As such, our Board of Directors may choose to issue some or all of such shares to acquire one or more companies or properties and to fund our overhead and general operating requirements. The issuance of any such shares may reduce the book value per share and may contribute to a reduction in the market price of the outstanding shares of our common stock. If we issue any such additional shares, such issuance will reduce the proportionate ownership and voting power of all current stockholders. Further, such issuance may result in a change of control of our corporation.
Much of our product development program depends upon third-party researchers who are outside our control and whose negative performance could materially hinder or delay our pre-clinical testing or clinical trials
We do not have the ability to conduct all aspects of the development of our Pilus related products ourselves. We have and will depend upon independent investigators and collaborators, such as commercial third-parties, government, universities and medical institutions, to assist us in our development. These collaborators are not our employees and we cannot control the amount or timing of resources that they devote to our programs. These individuals and entities may not assign as great a priority to our programs or pursue them as diligently as we would if we were undertaking such programs ourselves. The failure of any of these outside collaborators to perform in an acceptable and timely manner in the future, including in accordance with any applicable regulatory requirements could cause a delay or otherwise adversely affect our product development and, ultimately, the commercialization of our products. In addition, these collaborators may also have relationships with other commercial entities, some of whom may compete with us. If our collaborators assist our competitors at our expense, our competitive position would be harmed.
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As we attempt to continue to develop and expand our business in the medical market, it is important to note that the medical marketplace is subject to stringent regulation and failure to obtain regulatory approval will prevent commercialization of our products.
The medical marketplace is subject to extensive and rigorous regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, by comparable agencies in foreign countries and by other regulatory agencies and governing bodies. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and associated regulations, manufacturers of medical devices must comply with certain regulations that cover the composition, labeling, testing, clinical study, manufacturing, packaging and distribution of medical devices. In addition, medical devices must receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance or approval before they can be commercially marketed in the U.S., and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration may require testing and surveillance programs to monitor the effects of approved products that have been commercialized and can prevent or limit further marketing of a product based on the results of these post-market evaluation programs. The process of obtaining marketing clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for new products could take a significant period of time, require the expenditure of substantial resources, involve rigorous pre-clinical and clinical testing, require changes to the products and result in limitations on the indicated uses of the product. In addition, if we seek regulatory approval in non-U.S. markets, we will be subject to further regulatory approvals, that will require additional costs and resources. There is no assurance that we will obtain necessary regulatory approvals in a timely manner, or at all.
Regulations are constantly changing, and in the future our business may be subject to additional regulations that increase our compliance costs.
We believe that we understand the current laws and regulations to which our products will be subject in the future. However, federal, state and foreign laws and regulations relating to the sale of our products are subject to future changes, as are administrative interpretations of regulatory agencies. If we fail to comply with such federal, state or foreign laws or regulations, we may fail to obtain regulatory approval for our products and, if we have already obtained regulatory approval, we could be subject to enforcement actions, including injunctions preventing us from conducting our business, withdrawal of clearances or approvals and civil and criminal penalties. In the event that federal, state, and foreign laws and regulations change, we may need to incur additional costs to seek government approvals, in addition to the clearance we intend to seek from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in order to sell or market our products. If we are slow or unable to adapt to changes in existing regulatory requirements or the promulgation of new regulatory requirements or policies, we or our licensees may lose marketing approval for our products which will impact our ability to conduct business in the future.
If we do not obtain protection for our intellectual property rights, our competitors may be able to take advantage of our research and development efforts to develop competing products.
We intend to rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, and nondisclosure and non-competition agreements to protect our proprietary intellectual property. To date, we have filed not patent applications but plan to file such applications in the U.S. and in other countries, as we deem appropriate for our products. Our applications have and will include claims intended to provide market exclusivity for certain commercial aspects of the products, including the methods of production, the methods of usage and the commercial packaging of the products. However, we cannot predict:
| ● | the degree and range of protection any patents will afford us against competitors, including whether third parties will find ways to invalidate or otherwise circumvent our patents; | |
| ● | if and when such patents will be issued, and, if granted, whether patents will be challenged and held invalid or unenforceable; | |
| ● | whether or not others will obtain patents claiming aspects similar to those covered by our patents and patent applications; or | |
| ● | whether we will need to initiate litigation or administrative proceedings which may be costly regardless of outcome. |
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Our success also depends upon the skills, knowledge and experience of our scientific and technical personnel, our consultants and advisors as well as our licensors and contractors. To help protect our proprietary know-how and our inventions for which patents may be unobtainable or difficult to obtain, we rely on trade secret protection and confidentiality agreements. To this end, it is our policy to require all of our employees, consultants, advisors and contractors to enter into agreements which prohibit the disclosure of confidential information and, where applicable, require disclosure and assignment to us of the ideas, developments, discoveries and inventions important to our business. These agreements may not provide adequate protection for our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information in the event of any unauthorized use or disclosure or the lawful development by others of such information. If any of our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information is disclosed, the value of our trade secrets, know-how and other proprietary rights would be significantly impaired and our business and competitive position would suffer.
Given the fact that we may pose a competitive threat, competitors, especially large and well-capitalized companies that own or control patents relating to electrophysiology recording systems, may successfully challenge our patent applications, produce similar products or products that do not infringe our patents, or produce products in countries where we have not applied for patent protection or that do not respect our patents.
If any of these events occurs, or we otherwise lose protection for our trade secrets or proprietary know-how, the value of our intellectual property may be greatly reduced. Patent protection and other intellectual property protection are important to the success of our business and prospects, and there is a substantial risk that such protections will prove inadequate.
If we infringe upon the rights of third parties, we could be prevented from selling products and forced to pay damages and defend against litigation.
If our products, methods, processes and other technologies infringe the proprietary rights of other parties, we could incur substantial costs and we may be required to:
| ● | obtain licenses, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all; | |
| ● | abandon an infringing product candidate; | |
| ● | redesign our product candidates or processes to avoid infringement; | |
| ● | cease usage of the subject matter claimed in the patents held by others; | |
| ● | pay damages; and/or | |
| ● | defend litigation or administrative proceedings which may be costly regardless of outcome, and which could result in a substantial diversion of our financial and management resources. |
Any of these events could substantially harm our earnings, financial condition and operations.
The medical and biotechnology space is highly competitive.
There are a number of groups and organizations, such as healthcare, medical device and software companies in the medical and biotechnology market that may develop a competitive offering to our products, especially given that we have not yet filed for patent protection for any of our intellectual property. The largest companies in the medical and biotechnology market are GE, Johnson & Johnson and Amgen. All of these companies have significantly greater resources, experience and name recognition than we possess. There is no assurance that they will not attempt to develop similar or superior products, that they will not be successful in developing such products or that any products they may develop will not have a competitive advantage over our products. Should a superior offering come to market, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and future prospects.
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We rely on key officers, consultants and scientific and medical advisors, and their knowledge of our business and technical expertise would be difficult to replace.
We are highly dependent on our officers, consultants and scientific and medical advisors because of their expertise and experience in medical device development. We do not have “key person” life insurance policies for any of our officers. If we are unable to obtain additional funding, we will be unable to meet our current and future compensation obligations to such employees and consultants. In light of the foregoing, we are at risk that one or more of our consultants or employees may leave our company for other opportunities where there is no concern about such employers fulfilling their compensation obligations, or for other reasons. The loss of the technical knowledge and management and industry expertise of any of our key personnel could result in delays in product development, loss of customers and sales and diversion of management resources, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
If we are unable to attract, train and retain highly qualified personnel, the quality of our services may decline and we may not successfully execute our internal growth strategies.
Our success depends in large part upon our ability to continue to attract, train, motivate and retain highly skilled and experienced employees, including technical personnel. Qualified technical employees periodically are in great demand and may be unavailable in the time frame required to satisfy our customers’ requirements. While we currently have available technical expertise sufficient for the requirements of our business, expansion of our business could require us to employ additional highly skilled technical personnel.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to attract and retain sufficient numbers of highly skilled technical employees in the future. The loss of personnel or our inability to hire or retain sufficient personnel at competitive rates of compensation could impair our ability to secure and complete customer engagements and could harm our business.
If we do not effectively manage changes in our business, these changes could place a significant strain on our management and operations.
Our ability to grow successfully requires an effective planning and management process. The expansion and growth of our business could place a significant strain on our management systems, infrastructure and other resources. To manage our growth successfully, we must continue to improve and expand our systems and infrastructure in a timely and efficient manner. Our controls, systems, procedures and resources may not be adequate to support a changing and growing company. If our management fails to respond effectively to changes and growth in our business, including acquisitions, there could be a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and future prospects.
Our strategic business plan may not produce the intended growth in revenue and operating income.
Our strategies ultimately include making significant investments in sales and marketing programs to achieve revenue growth and margin improvement targets. If we do not achieve the expected benefits from these investments or otherwise fail to execute on our strategic initiatives, we may not achieve the growth improvement we are targeting and our results of operations may be adversely affected. We may also fail to secure the capital necessary to make these investments, which will hinder our growth.
In addition, as part of our strategy for growth, we may make acquisitions and enter into strategic alliances such as joint ventures and joint development agreements. However, we may not be able to identify suitable acquisition candidates, complete acquisitions or integrate acquisitions successfully, and our strategic alliances may not prove to be successful. In this regard, acquisitions involve numerous risks, including difficulties in the integration of the operations, technologies, services and products of the acquired companies and the diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns. Although we will endeavor to evaluate the risks inherent in any particular transaction, there can be no assurance that we will properly ascertain all such risks. In addition, acquisitions could result in the incurrence of substantial additional indebtedness and other expenses or in potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities. There can be no assurance that difficulties encountered with acquisitions will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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We currently do not have significant sales, marketing or distribution operations and will need to expand our expertise in these areas.
We currently do not have significant sales, marketing or distribution operations and, in connection with the expected commercialization of our system, will need to expand our expertise in these areas. To increase internal sales, distribution and marketing expertise and be able to conduct these operations, we would have to invest significant amounts of financial and management resources. In developing these functions ourselves, we could face a number of risks, including:
| ● | we may not be able to attract and build an effective marketing or sales force; and | |
| ● | the cost of establishing, training and providing regulatory oversight for a marketing or sales force may be substantial. |
We experienced, and continue to experience, changes in its operations, which has placed, and will continue to place, significant demands on its management, operational and financial infrastructure.
If the Company does not effectively manage its growth, the quality of its products and services could suffer, which could negatively affect the Company’s brand and operating results. To effectively manage this growth, the Company will need to continue to improve its operational, financial and management controls and its reporting systems and procedures. Failure to implement these improvements could hurt the Company’s ability to manage its growth and financial position.
Risks Relating to Our Organization and Our Common Stock
In 2001, we became a publicly registered company that is subject to the reporting requirements of federal securities laws, which can be expensive and may divert resources from other projects, thus impairing our ability to grow.
In 2001, we became a public reporting company and, accordingly, subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and other federal securities laws, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). The costs of preparing and filing annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC and furnishing audited reports to stockholders will cause our expenses to be higher than they would have been if we remained private.
We will be required to incur significant costs and require significant management resources to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting as required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and any failure to comply or any adverse result from such evaluation may have an adverse effect on our stock price.
As a smaller reporting company as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, we are required to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Section 404”). Section 404 requires us to include an internal control report with the Annual Report on Form 10-K. This report must include management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of the fiscal year. This report must also include disclosure of any material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting that we have identified. Failure to comply, or any adverse results from such evaluation, could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports and have an adverse effect on the trading price of our equity securities. Management believes that our internal controls and procedures are currently not effective to detect the inappropriate application of U.S. GAAP rules. Management realizes there are deficiencies in the design or operation of our internal control that adversely affect our internal controls which management considers to be material weaknesses including those described below:
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| ● | We have insufficient quantity of dedicated resources and experienced personnel involved in reviewing and designing internal controls. As a result, a material misstatement of the interim and annual financial statements could occur and not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. | |
| ● | We do not have an audit committee. While not being legally obligated to have an audit committee, it is our view that to have an audit committee, comprised of independent board members, is an important entity-level control over our financial statements. | |
| ● | We did not perform an entity level risk assessment to evaluate the implication of relevant risks on financial reporting, including the impact of potential fraud-related risks and the risks related to non-routine transactions, if any, on our internal control over financial reporting. Lack of an entity-level risk assessment constituted an internal control design deficiency which resulted in more than a remote likelihood that a material error would not have been prevented or detected, and constituted a material weakness. | |
| ● | We lack personnel with formal training to properly analyze and record complex transactions in accordance with U.S. GAAP. | |
| ● | We have not achieved the optimal level of segregation of duties relative to key financial reporting functions. |
Achieving continued compliance with Section 404 may require us to incur significant costs and expend significant time and management resources. We cannot assure you that we will be able to fully comply with Section 404 or that we and our independent registered public accounting firm would be able to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective at fiscal year-end. As a result, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have an adverse effect on the trading price of our securities, as well as subject us to civil or criminal investigations and penalties. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm may not agree with our management’s assessment or conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is operating effectively.
FINRA sales practice requirements may also limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our stock.
In addition to the “penny stock” rules described above, FINRA has adopted rules that require that in recommending an investment to a customer, a broker-dealer must have reasonable grounds for believing that the investment is suitable for that customer. Prior to recommending speculative low priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customer’s financial status, tax status, investment objectives and other information. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA believes that there is a high probability that speculative low priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. The FINRA requirements make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that their customers buy our common stock, which may limit your ability to buy and sell our stock and have an adverse effect on the market for our shares.
Public company compliance may make it more difficult for us to attract and retain officers and directors.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and new rules subsequently implemented by the SEC have required changes in corporate governance practices of public companies. As a public company, we expect these new rules and regulations to increase our compliance costs and to make certain activities more time consuming and costly. As a public company, we also expect that these new rules and regulations may make it more difficult and expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance in the future and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified persons to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers.
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The market price and trading volume of shares of our common stock may be volatile.
When and if a market develops for our securities, the market price of our common stock could fluctuate significantly for many reasons, including reasons unrelated to our specific performance, such as limited liquidity for our stock, reports by industry analysts, investor perceptions, or announcements by our competitors regarding their own performance, as well as general economic and industry conditions. For example, to the extent that other large companies within our industry experience declines in their share price, our share price may decline as well. Fluctuations in operating results or the failure of operating results to meet the expectations of public market analysts and investors may negatively impact the price of our securities. Quarterly operating results may fluctuate in the future due to a variety of factors that could negatively affect revenues or expenses in any particular quarter, including vulnerability of our business to a general economic downturn, changes in the laws that affect our products or operations, competition, compensation related expenses, application of accounting standards and our ability to obtain and maintain all necessary government certifications and/or licenses to conduct our business. In addition, when the market price of a company’s shares drops significantly, stockholders could institute securities class action lawsuits against the company. A lawsuit against us could cause us to incur substantial costs and could divert the time and attention of our management and other resources.
We may not pay dividends in the future. Any return on investment may be limited to the value of our common stock.
We do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The payment of dividends on our common stock will depend on earnings, financial condition and other business and economic factors affecting us at such time as our board of directors may consider relevant. If we do not pay dividends, our common stock may be less valuable because a return on your investment will only occur if our stock price appreciates.
Our common stock is currently considered a “penny stock,” which may make it more difficult for our investors to sell their shares.
Our stock is categorized as a penny stock. The SEC has adopted Rule 15g-9 which generally defines “penny stock” to be any equity security that has a market price (as defined) less than US$ 5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than US$ 5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. Our securities are covered by the penny stock rules, which impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell to persons other than established customers and accredited investors. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document in a form prepared by the SEC which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. The bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information, must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to effecting the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customer’s confirmation. In addition, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from these rules, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written agreement to the transaction. These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity in the secondary market for the stock that is subject to these penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules may affect the ability of broker-dealers to trade our securities. We believe that the penny stock rules discourage investor interest in and limit the marketability of our common stock.
Offers or availability for sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock may cause the price of our common stock to decline.
If our stockholders sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or upon the expiration of any statutory holding period under Rule 144, or issued upon the exercise of outstanding options or warrants, it could create a circumstance commonly referred to as an “overhang” and in anticipation of which the market price of our common stock could fall. The existence of an overhang, whether or not sales have occurred or are occurring, also could make more difficult our ability to raise additional financing through the sale of equity or equity-related securities in the future at a time and price that we deem reasonable or appropriate.
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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
The Company does not currently have any lease agreements for real property.
From time to time, we may be involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business. As of May 18, 2016, 2016, there were no pending or threatened lawsuits that could reasonably be expected to have a material effect on the results of our operations except as set forth below:
On November 23, 2015, the Company had its arbitration date in Miami, Florida at the law office of Pollack, Pollack and Kogan against Cherry Baekert LLP (a consultant of the Company). This arbitration was concerning outstanding invoices of $31,280 that Cherry Baekert believed was owed from the Company pursuant to two separate engagement letters entered into in 2014. Prior to November 23, 2015, the Company had already paid $25,000 to Cherry Baekert pursuant to these above mentioned agreements.
The arbitrator, Lawrence Saichek, ruled against the Company on December 29, 2015 awarding Cherry Baekert the full $31,280 plus legal fee reimbursement, and court costs reimbursed. The total award was $47,568. Since that time, the number has grown to $51,387. On April 25, 2016, the Company made a $15,000 payment to Cherry Baekert towards this outstanding amount. Therefore, the remaining balance is now $36,387. In addition, Cherry Baekert, as a good faith measure, granted the Company until June 30, 2016 to pay the balance. There can be no guarantees that the Company will be able to meet that deadline.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not applicable.
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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Market for Common Equity
Market Information
The Company’s common stock is traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol “TAUG.OB.” As of May 17, 2016, the Company’s common stock was held by 1,226 shareholders of record, which does not include shareholders whose shares are held in street or nominee name.
The following chart is indicative of the fluctuations in the stock prices:
| March 31, 2016 | ||||||||
| High | Low | |||||||
| First Quarter | $ | 0.006 | $ | 0.010 | ||||
| Second Quarter | $ | 0.006 | $ | 0.001 | ||||
| Third Quarter | $ | 0.005 | $ | 0.001 | ||||
| Fourth Quarter | $ | 0.006 | $ | 0.002 | ||||
| For the Years Ended March 31, | ||||||||||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| High | Low | High | Low | |||||||||||||
| First Quarter | $ | 0.05 | $ | 0.02 | $ | 0.11 | $ | 0.05 | ||||||||
| Second Quarter | $ | 0.08 | $ | 0.02 | $ | 0.05 | $ | 0.02 | ||||||||
| Third Quarter | $ | 0.02 | $ | 0.01 | $ | 0.03 | $ | 0.01 | ||||||||
| Fourth Quarter | $ | 0.02 | $ | 0.01 | $ | 0.11 | $ | 0.01 | ||||||||
The Company’s transfer agent is ClearTrust, LLC located at 16540 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 206, Lutz, Florida 33558 with a telephone number of (813) 235-4490.
Dividend Distributions
We have not historically and do not intend to distribute dividends to stockholders in the foreseeable future.
Securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans
The Company does not have any equity compensation plans.
Penny Stock
Our common stock is considered “penny stock” under the rules the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The SEC has adopted rules that regulate broker-dealer practices in connection with transactions in penny stocks. Penny stocks are generally equity securities with a price of less than $5.00, other than securities registered on certain national securities exchanges or quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market System, provided that current price and volume information with respect to transactions in such securities is provided by the exchange or quotation system. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document prepared by the Commission, that:
| ● | contains a description of the nature and level of risks in the market for penny stocks in both public offerings and secondary trading; | |
| ● | contains a description of the broker’s or dealer’s duties to the customer and of the rights and remedies available to the customer with respect to a violation to such duties or other requirements of Securities’ laws; contains a brief, clear, narrative description of a dealer market, including bid and ask prices for penny stocks and the significance of the spread between the bid and ask price; | |
| ● | contains a toll-free telephone number for inquiries on disciplinary actions; | |
| ● | defines significant terms in the disclosure document or in the conduct of trading in penny stocks; and | |
| ● | contains such other information and is in such form, including language, type, size and format, as the Securities and Commission may require by rule or regulation. |
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The broker-dealer also must provide, prior to effecting any transaction in a penny stock, the customer with:
| ● | bid and offer quotations for the penny stock; | |
| ● | the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction; | |
| ● | the number of shares to which such bid and ask prices apply, or other comparable information relating to the depth and liquidity of the marker for such stock; and | |
| ● | monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. |
In addition, the penny stock rules that require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from those rules; the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written acknowledgement of the receipt of a risk disclosure statement, a written agreement to transactions involving penny stocks, and a signed and dated copy of a written suitably statement.
These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the trading activity in the secondary market for our stock.
Related Stockholder Matters
None.
Purchase of Equity Securities
None.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.
As the Company is a “smaller reporting company,” this item is inapplicable.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION.
This report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Rule 175 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Rule 3b-6 of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, our beliefs and our assumptions. Words such as “anticipate,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks” and “estimates” and variations of these words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this Form 10-K. Investors should carefully consider all of such risks before making an investment decision with respect to the Company’s stock. The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and summary of selected financial data for Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Such discussion represents only the best present assessment from our Management.
Description of Business
We are a Florida corporation formed on April 8, 2001. We were originally organized to be a blank check company.
On June 8, 2009, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Novo Energies Corporation”. As described in a report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 26, 2009, a majority of shareholders executed a written consent in lieu of an Annual Meeting (the “Written Consent”) effecting the change of the name of our business from “Atlantic Wine Agencies, Inc.” to “Novo Energies Corporation” on June 8, 2009 to better reflect what we then intended to be our future operations. We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on June 8, 2009 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval.
On June 23, 2009, the Board of Directors approved a 3-for-1 forward stock split. Accordingly, all share and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted in the accompanying financial statements.
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On July 30, 2009, Novo Energies Corporation (“Novo”) formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, WTL Renewable Energy, Inc. (“WTL”). WTL was established as a Canadian Federal Corporation whose business is to initially research available technologies capable of transforming plastic and tires into useful energy commodities. Simultaneously, WTL also intended to plan, build, own, and operate renewable energy plants throughout Canada utilizing a third party technology and using plastic and tire waste as feedstock. On May 8, 2012, the name was changed to Immunovative Canada, Inc.
On May 17, 2011, Novo entered into an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Immunovative Clinical Research, Inc. (“ICRI”), a Nevada corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Immunovative Therapies, Ltd. (“ITL”), an Israeli corporation pursuant to which the Company and ICRI intended to pursue a merger resulting in Novo owning ICRI.
In April 2012, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Immunovative, Inc.” As described in a report filed with the United States (“U.S.”) Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2012, a majority of shareholders executed a written consent in lieu of an Annual Meeting (the “Written Consent”) effecting the change of the name of our business from “Novo Energies Corporation” to “Immunovative, Inc.” on April 2, 2012 to better reflect what we then intended to be our future operations. We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on April 30, 2012 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval.
On January 8, 2013, the Company received from ITL, a notice by which ITL purported to terminate the License Agreement dated December 9, 2011 between the Company and ITL (the “ITL Notice”), along with alleged damages. It is the Company’s position that ITL breached the License Agreement by delivering the ITL Notice and, that prior to the ITL Notice, the License Agreement was in full force and, on January 17, 2013 and that the Company had complied in all material respect with the License Agreement therefore the Company believes that there are no damages to ITL. As such, on January 17, 2013, the Company filed a lawsuit against ITL, which included the request for various injunctive relief against ITL for damages stemming from this breach.
On February 19, 2013, the Company and ITL entered into a settlement agreement whereby the parties have agreed to the following: (1) the Company will submit a letter to the Court advising the Court that the parties have reached a settlement and that the Company is withdrawing its motion, (2) ITL will pay the Company $20,000, (3) ITL will issue to the Company, ITL’s share capital equivalent to 9% of the issued and outstanding shares of ITL, (4) the Company will change its name and (5) the settling parties agree that the license agreement will be terminated.
On March 13, 2013, the Board of Directors approved the change of name to “Tauriga Sciences, Inc.” from “Immunovative, Inc.” We filed an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation on March 13, 2013 with the Florida Secretary of State to affect this name change after receiving the requisite corporate approval. The Company’s symbol change to “TAUG” was approved by FINRA effective April 9, 2013.
On May 31, 2013, the Company signed an exclusive North American license agreement with Green Innovations, Inc. (“Green Innovations”) for the commercialization of Bamboo-Based “100% Tree Free” products including hospital grade biodegradable disinfectant wipes. This 5 year license agreement functioned such that profits were to be split equally between Tauriga and Green Innovations. In consideration for such agreement Tauriga agreed to pay Green Innovations $250,000 USD and 4,347,826 shares of TAUG common stock. Tauriga received 625,000 shares of Green Innovations common stock as well. The agreement was later amended and completed for the following consideration: Tauriga paid Green Innovations a total of $143,730 USD and an additional 2,500,000 shares of TAUG common stock (for an aggregate share issuance of 6,847,826 shares). As of Year End March 31, 2014, Tauriga has not generated any revenues from the license agreement. And this agreement expires on June 01, 2018.
On October 29, 2013 the Company entered into a Strategic Alliance with Synthetic Biology Pioneer Bacterial Robotics LLC to Develop And Commercialize Industry Specific Bacterial Robots “BactoBots”. Under terms of the Agreement the companies will jointly develop a nuclear industry-specific Bacterial Robot (“BactoBots(TM)”). BactoBots are ubiquitous microscopic robots applicable to therapeutics, wastewater, and chemicals. Specifically, Bacterial Robotics owns a family of intellectual property beginning with U.S Patent # 8,354,267 B2 that relates generally to genetically enhanced bacteria that conduct specific functions. Bacterial Robotics initial focus with Tauriga is developing a proprietary BactoBot to remediate wastewater generated by nuclear energy production.
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On November 25, 2013, the Company entered a definitive agreement to acquire Cincinnati, Ohio based Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”), a developer of alternative cleantech energy platforms using proprietary microbial solutions that creates electricity while consuming polluting molecules from wastewater. Upon consummation of the proposed transaction, which has been unanimously ratified by Tauriga’s board of directors, Pilus Energy will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tauriga. In addition certain advisors of Pilus Energy will be incorporated into the existing management team of Tauriga and will report directly to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Stella M. Sung. A total of $100,000 was paid by Tauriga to Bacterial Robotics in connection with the execution of this November 2013 definitive agreement for the acquisition of Pilus Energy.
On January 28, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of Cincinnati, Ohio based synthetic biology pioneer Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”). Structurally Pilus Energy will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Tauriga (pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreement) and will maintain its headquarters location in the State of Ohio. The management of Pilus Energy will report directly to both the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) of Tauriga with the expectation that at least one board seat of Tauriga will be allocated to a Pilus Energy affiliate. The Board of Directors of Tauriga Sciences unanimously approved both the previously announced definitive merger agreement on October 25, 2013 as well as the completion of the acquisition inclusive of amended closing terms. In consideration for early closing of this acquisition, shareholders of Pilus Energy received 100,000,000 shares of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. common stock.
Both management teams are highly confident that the capital and liquidity needs will be sufficiently met through commitments from existing institutional investors and progress in non-dilutive funding initiatives (i.e., grants, low interest loans). The main benefits in accelerating the closing of this acquisition are to enhance Tauriga’s access to capital markets and enable the intrinsic value of Pilus Energy’s technology to be realized sooner through demonstrable progress in the commercialization process. Pilus Energy utilizes a proprietary clean technology to convert industrial customer “wastewater” into value. This wastewater-to-value (“WTV”) proposition provides customers with substantial revenue-generating and cost-saving opportunities. Pilus Energy is converging digester, fermenter, scrubber, and other proven legacy technologies into a single scalable Electrogenic Bioreactor (“EBR”) platform. This transformative microbial fuel cell technology is the basis of the Pilus Cell(TM). The EBR harnesses genetically enhanced bacteria, also known as bacterial robots, or BactoBots(TM), that remediate water, harvest direct current (DC) electricity, and produce economically important gases and chemicals. The EBR accomplishes this through bacterial metabolism, specifically cellular respiration of nearly four hundred carbon and nitrogen molecules typically called pollutants in wastewater. Pilus Energy’s highly metabolic bacteria are non-pathogenic. Because of the mediated biofilm formation, these wastewater-to-value BactoBots(TM) resist heavy metal poisoning, swings of pH, and survive in a 4-to-45 degree Celsius temperature range. Additionally, the BactoBots(TM) are anaerobically and aerobically active, even with low biological oxygen demand (“BOD”) and chemical oxygen demand (“COD”).
On March 10, 2014, the Company entered into a definitive agreement (“definitive”) to acquire California based Honeywood LLC, developer of a topical medicinal cannabis product (Therapeutic Cream) that currently sells in numerous dispensaries across the state of California. This definitive agreement is valid for a period of 120 days and Tauriga advanced to Honeywood $217,000 USD to be applied towards the final closing requisite cash total and incurred 178,000 in legal fees as of march 31, 2014 in connection with the acquisition.
On March 26, 2014, the Company announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Pilus Energy LLC (“Pilus Energy”) has commenced a five-phase, $1,700,000 USD commercial pilot test (“commercial pilot”) with the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), utilizing Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. (NYSE:CBI) (“CB&I”) Federal Services serving as the third-party-contractor through the EPA’s Test and Evaluation (“T&E”) facility. This five phase commercial pilot will include significant testing of the Pilus Energy Electrogenic Bioreactor (“EBR”) synthetic biology platform for generating value from wastewater. This commercial pilot is of great importance to the Company, because it represents the scale up from the benchtop (laboratory) scale to commercial (industrial) scale. The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (“MSDGR”), which is co-located with EPA’s T&E facility, will host the commercial scale EBR prototype at its main treatment plant in Cincinnati.
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SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Common Stock Issuances
Subsequent to March 31, 2015, the Company issued additional shares of common stock as follows: (i) 29,188,403 shares in connection with the Company’s amended stock purchase agreement with Hanover I; (ii) 264,125,000 shares to consultants and board members; and (iii) 27,500,000 shares for a financing fee related to a convertible debenture issuance.
Escrow Agreement – April 10, 2015
On April 10, 2015, the Company received $24,970 cash pursuant to a settlement and assignment agreement between a director of the Company and a stockholder.
Typenex Settlement Agreement
On June 1, 2015, the Company and Typenex entered into a Settlement Agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby both the Company and Typenex have agreed to settle all claims and obligations under the January 16, 2015 settlement agreement (the “Prior Settlement Agreement”) in consideration of the Company paying Typenex the amount of $230,000. Through the date of the Agreement Typenex earned approximately $169,000 in net sales proceeds from the sale of shares issued under the Prior Settlement Agreement.
Security Purchase Agreement – Accredited Investors
On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with various accredited investors for the sale of certain debentures with aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $133,000. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the investors were granted 13,300,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee. These shares have not yet been issued. Additionally, the Company was required to repay the amounts raised under the Purchase Agreement prior to December 1, 2015 except as described below. The Purchase Agreement provides the Company with the following prepayment options: (i) if prepaid prior to August 31, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 10% premium and (ii) if prepaid after August 31, 2015 but prior to December 1, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 20% premium. In the event the Company has not repaid the amounts as described above, on December 1, 2015 the Company has the option to convert all amounts raised under the Purchase Agreements into shares of common stock based on a 20% discount to the Company’s VWAP (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) for the three Trading Days (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) prior to December 1, 2015. Excluding the 13,300,000 commitment shares, in May 2016 the Company agreed to issue 33,900,000 shares of its common stock to settle all obligations under these Purchase Agreements.
Security Purchase Agreement – Union Capital, LLC
On June 1, 2015 the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Union Purchase Agreement”) with Union Capital, LLC (“Union”) for the purchase of a 7% Convertible Redeemable Note in the principal amount of $104,000 with a maturity date of June 1, 2016 (the “Union Note”). The Company received gross proceeds of $100,000 under the Union Note. The Company granted Union 12,500,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee in consideration of the Union Note. Pursuant to the terms of the Union Note, at any time Union may convert any principal and interest due to it at a 20% discount to the lowest closing bid price of Company common stock for the five trading days prior to the conversion notice. Additionally, the discount will be adjusted on a ratchet basis in the event the Company offers a more favorable discount rate or look-back period to a third party during the term of the Union Note. Union will not be allowed to convert into shares of common stock that would result in it beneficially owning more than 9.99% of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock. The Company may prepay the amounts under the Union Note as follows: (i) if prepaid within ninety days, the Company must pay a 15% premium on all principal and interest outstanding and (ii) if prepaid after ninety days but before the one hundred and eighty-one day, the Company must pay a 30% premium on all principal and interest outstanding. The Company intends to use its best efforts to repay the Union Note within the first ninety days. The Company agreed to reserve 33,000,000 shares of its common stock to satisfy its obligations under the Union Note. This reserve will be increased to three times the number of share of common stock upon the approval of the Company’s stockholders of an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock. The Company agreed to call a special meeting solely for such purpose with fifteen days of the Union Note.
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Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation and Filing of Schedule 14A
On July 9, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors (“BOD”) approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized common stock from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 shares and on July 17, 2015, the Company filed Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission calling for a special meeting of the stockholders to be held on July 27, 2015 to approve the amendment.
On July 27, 2015 the Company’s stockholders approved an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock of the Company from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 at its Special Meeting of Stockholders held on July 27, 2015 at the Law Offices of Nixon Peabody LLP in Midtown Manhattan (the “Special Meeting”). At the Special Meeting, there were 480,655,929 shares of common stock represented either by proxy or in person of the 929,825,933 shares of common stock entitled to vote, constituting a quorum. Of those shares, there were 433,331,977, or 90.2%, that voted in favor of the proposal recommended by the Board of Directors. The remaining votes were cast either against or as abstentions regarding the proposal.
Resignation and Separation Agreement – Stella Sung
On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung submitted her resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD and as CEO and CFO of the Company. Dr. Sung received a payment of $41,500, which constituted a one-time separation payment of $20,000, accrued salary of $14,000 and expense reimbursements of $7,500.
Appointment of Seth Shaw and Ghalia Lahlou
Simultaneously with Dr. Sung’s resignation, the BOD appointed Seth M. Shaw as the Chairman of the BOD and the Company’s new CEO and Ghalia Lahlou as its new interim CFO. Compensation arrangements for Mr. Shaw have not been determined at this time. Ms. Lahlou will receive annual compensation of $96,000.
Resignation of Dr. Michael Brennan
On July 10, 2015, Michael Brennan, MD, PhD submitted his resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD.
Convertible Debenture Agreement – Group 10 Holdings LLC
On July 16, 2015, the Company entered into an $80,000 20% OID convertible debenture with Group 10 Holdings LLC.
PCAOB Censure of Cowan Gunteski & Co. LLC
On July 23, 2015, The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“Board” or “PCAOB”) censured the registered public accounting firm Cowan, Gunteski & Co., P.A. (“Cowan” or the “Firm”) and censured William Meyler, CPA (“Meyler”). The Board imposed these sanctions on the basis of its findings concerning the Firm’s and Meyler’s (collectively, “Respondents”): (1) violations of Section 10A(j) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”), Exchange Act Rule 10A-2, and PCAOB rules and standards. Cowan was the predecessor independent registered public accounting of the Company. As a result of this censure, the Company was forced to have their consolidated financial statements re-audited by a new independent registered public accounting firm.
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Delisting from the OTCQB Exchange
On July 31, 2015, shares of the Company were delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to OTC Pink Limited Information Tier. On July 23, 2015 (via the PCAOB Public Censure), the Company became aware that the Company’s predecessor audit firm, Cowan, Gunteski & Co P.A. (the “Predecessor Audit Firm”) violated Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation SX, Rule 2-01 as well as certain standards with respect to the PCAOB independence rules with respect to the Predecessor Audit Firm’s audit report with respect to the Company year ended March 31, 2014 financial statements (the “Order”). Specifically the Predecessor Audit Firm failed to adhere to the SEC regulations with respect to the partner rotation rules. These rules require that the engagement partner as well as the quality concurring reviewer must be rotated off of the engagement for 5 years (cooling off period) after engaged in those roles for a period of 5 years. The Predecessor Audit Firm did not do this.
As a result of the non-compliance with the SEC regulations, on the morning of Thursday, July 30, 2015, the Company petitioned the OTC Markets in writing to extend the existing seven day OTCQB listing extension by a total of 60 additional days until close of business October 5, 2015. The OTC Markets panel denied the request and notified the Company it would be moved from the OTCQB to the OTC Pink Limited Information category effective at market open Friday July 31, 2015.
Disposal of Natural Wellness Business
On August 11, 2015 the Company formally divested (discontinued) its Natural Wellness Business. The business mainly consisted of a CBD infused topical lotion called TopiCanna as well as a line of Cannabis Complement products that were intended to compliment individuals who were consistently using medicinal cannabis related product. On August 11, 2015, the Company sold the balance of its inventory of TopiCanna and Cannabis Complement products for a one-time cash payment of $20,462. As a result of the disposal of this business, the Company reported a loss on disposal of $229,904, as reflected in the chart below:
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
BALANCE SHEET FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | |||||||
| Assets of discontinued operations | $ | 209,442 | - | |||||
| Liabilities of discontinued operations | - | - | ||||||
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| Revenues | $ | 96,161 | $ | - | ||||
| Cost of goods sold | 41,802 | - | ||||||
| Gross profit | 54,359 | - | ||||||
| Operating expenses | ||||||||
| General and administrative | 178,002 | - | ||||||
| Impairment of notes receivable | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of license agreements | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of patents | - | - | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization expense | 1,757 | - | ||||||
| Total operating expenses | 179,759 | - | ||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations | $ | (125,400 | ) | - | ||||
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In addition, the pro-forma effect of the disposal on the consolidated financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, assuming the transaction occurred as of April 1, 2013 is reflected in the chart below:
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Loss on disposal of Natural Wellness (subsidiary)
| Cash | $ | 87,894 | ||
| Inventory, at cost | 90,987 | |||
| Prepaid Expenses | 21,219 | |||
| Property and equipment, net | 9,342 | |||
| Cash received for sale of inventory | 20,462 | |||
| Loss on disposal of continuing operations | $ | 229,904 |
Non-convertible Debt Financing – Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd.
On September 30, 2015, the Company entered into a debt facility of $180,000 in non-convertible debt financing from Singapore-based institutional investor Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd. (“ASP”). The debt carries a fixed interest rate per annum of 11.50% (“the Designated Rate”) payable in full by December 23, 2015 (“the Maturity Date”). Both parties have discussed the possibility of amending terms, if necessary, under the assumption that both parties mutually agree to such amendment. The Company received cash from the note of $90,000 ($75,000 wired directly to the Company and $15,000 wired directly from ASP to compensate a consultant).
The balance of this $180,000 or the other $90,000 was wired directly to a Japanese based consumer product firm called Eishin, Inc.
The Company had entered into an agreement to acquire common shares equivalent to 20.1% of Eishin Co., Ltd. (“Eishin”), a high growth Japan-based company focusing on providing solutions to improve automobile combustion efficiency. “Eco-Spray”, Eishin’s key product made from 100% natural ingredients, is distributed in numerous Asian markets including China, Japan, Korea, India, UAE, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Philippines and Myanmar, and is currently being tested for expansion in North America. The Company has agreed to make an investment in Eishin for a total of $180,000, of which half was paid on October 1, 2015 and the remainder to be paid by the end of October 31, 2015.
The Company has not received any type of default notice with respect to this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Additionally, the Company has not received any shares in Eishin Co., Ltd. up to this point. The Company is currently in discussions with ASP to amend the original terms of this non-convertible debenture, specifically to reduce the face value of this note from $180,000 to $90,000 and forgo receipt of any shares of Eishin Co., Ltd.
Lastly on October 9, 2015, ASP Managing Director (Yuhi Horiguchi) notified the Company via email that any and all warrants that had been previously mentioned in the $180,000 note were fully cancelled. So there are no warrants in existence, in accordance with this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Nor have there been any defaults that ASP has notified the Company.
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Lawsuit Filed Against Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA
On November 4, 2015, the Company filed a lawsuit against its predecessor audit firm Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA in Federal Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida). The case alleges, among other things, that Cowan Gunteski committed malpractice with respect to the audit of the Company’s FY 2014 financial statements (as illustrated in the PCAOB Public Censure of July 23, 2015) and then misrepresented to the Company with respect about its ability to re-issue an independent opinion for FY 2014 financial statements. On July 31, 2015, the Company was delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to the OTC Pink Limited Information Tier due to its inability to file its FY 2015 Form 10K. The lawsuit was expected by the Company and its counsel to take up to 18 months to complete, from the date it was filed (November 4, 2015).
The Company in its lawsuit seeks damages against Cowan Gunteski (and its malpractice insurance policy) exceeding $3,000,000. There is no guarantee that the Company will be successful in this lawsuit.
Subsequent to the filing of the lawsuit, the Company was notified that the lawsuit was temporarily suspended so that the Company and Cowan can attempt to mediate this case. On December 30, 2015, the Company was notified that Daniel F. Kolb was appointed as the mediator.
Mediation commenced on February 3, 2016. During these efforts, the Company had been offered settlement amounts, but none that have been satisfactory.
On March 22, 2016 the Company decided that its good faith efforts to settle its ongoing litigation with Cowan Gunteski & Co. P.A. have proven unsuccessful. Therefore, the Board of Directors of the Company unanimously agreed to proceed to trial. The case is expected to proceed in Federal District Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida) with an expectation that the venue will be challenged. The Company is continuing to seek the assistance of independent experts, to help ascribe dollar amounts for certain damages suffered by the Company (“provable damages”). At this point in time, the Company has realized out of pocket cash losses and debts (inclusive of liquidated damages) that exceed $850,000. Additional potential damages include but are not limited to: inability to properly maintain Pilus Energy’s Intellectual Property (“Pilus IP”), the July 31, 2015 delisting of the Company shares from OTCQB to Pink Sheets, loss of market capitalization (“market cap”), loss of trading liquidity (“trading volume”), and loss of substantial business opportunities. In aggregate the Company intends to seek monetary award(s), during trial, in excess of $3,000,000. That figure is expected to continually increase as additional time lapses.
On May 10, 2016, the Company was notified of an Order Reopening Case, Scheduling Order for Pretrial Conference set for December 7, 2016 before Judge Robin L. Rosenberg, Trial set for January 23, 2017 in West Palm Beach Division, and a Calendar Call set for January 18, 2017.
Arbitration – Cherry Baekert LLP
On November 23, 2015, the Company had its arbitration date in Miami, Florida at the law office of Pollack, Pollack and Kogan against Cherry Baekert LLP (a consultant of the Company). This arbitration was concerning outstanding invoices of $31,280 that Cherry Baekert believed was owed from the Company pursuant to two separate engagement letters entered into in 2014. Prior to November 23, 2015, the Company had already paid $25,000 to Cherry Baekert pursuant to these above mentioned agreements.
The arbitrator, Lawrence Saichek, ruled against the Company on December 29, 2015 awarding Cherry Baekert the full $31,280 plus legal fee reimbursement, and court costs reimbursed. The total award was $47,568. Since that time, the number has grown to $51,387. On April 25, 2016, the Company made a $15,000 payment to Cherry Baekert towards this outstanding amount. Therefore, the remaining balance is now $36,387. In addition, Cherry Baekert, as a good faith measure, granted the Company until June 30, 2016 to pay the balance. There can be no guarantees that the Company will be able to meet that deadline.
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Appointment of Mr. Keith M. Berman to the Board of Directors
On April 15, 2016, the Company appointed Mr. Keith M. Berman as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Berman will serve as an independent director and with this appointment, The Company’s Board of Directors is now comprised of five members, four of which the Company believes qualify as independent directors under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Currently, Mr. Berman serves as the Principal Executive Officer, Secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of Decision Diagnostics Corp. (OTC PINK: DECN).
Specifically, Mr. Berman will leverage his vast experience and knowledge in the life sciences space to assist the Company in its potential merger and acquisition activities. In addition, Mr. Berman has important experience in prosecuting major corporate litigation as he has been instrumental in Decision Diagnostics’ litigation against a major U.S. based pharmaceutical company.
Private Placement – April 18, 2016
On April 18, 2016, the Company completed an equity private placement for $105,500 to date comprised of accredited individual investors as well as one institutional investor. The terms of this private placement are as follows: $0.004 per share of common stock with a related three year warrant for 40% of each share of common stock purchased at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. The warrants require the investors to pay cash to exercise the warrants and do not allow for cashless exercise. All shares to be issued will be “restricted securities” as such term is defined by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company collected $7,500 of this in March 2016, and the remaining funds in April 2016 at the time the shares and warrants were issued.
The proceeds from this private placement will be used for working capital purposes, most specifically to fund the Company’s ongoing litigation against Cowan Gunteski Co. P.A., and settle some outstanding obligations and establish new business opportunities for the Company.
COMPARISON OF THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2015 TO THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2014
Results of Operations
Revenue. We are currently developing our business and as a result we have not developed a material or consistent pattern of revenue generation. For the year ended March 31, 2015, we generated revenue and gross profit of $96,161 and $54,359, respectively, as compared to no revenue for the year ended March 31, 2014.
The revenue was generated from our natural wellness cannabis compliment line launched in August of 2014, which as noted above was discontinued in August 2015. Additionally, the Company is continuing its efforts to commercialize Pilus Energy, although there can be no guaranty such efforts will result in material revenue production.
Operating Expenses:
General and Administrative Expenses
For the year ended March 31, 2015, general and administrative expenses were $3,882,347 ($2,176,163 related to stock-based compensation) compared to $6,142,174 ($4,034,370 related to stock-based compensation) for the same period in 2014. This decrease of $2,259,827 was primary attributable to a decrease in stock-based compensation.
Other
For the year ended March 31, 2014, we incurred a charge of $1,355,988 for the impairment of license agreements and $1,791,460 for the impairment of patents. For the year ended March 31, 2015, we incurred an additional charge of $100,000 relating to additional impairments of license agreements.
Net Loss. We generated net losses of $5,088,956 for the year ended March 31, 2015 compared to $12,168,772 for the same period in 2014.
| 31 |
Liquidity and Capital Resources
General. At March 31, 2015, we had cash and cash equivalents of $209,098. We have historically met our cash needs through a combination of proceeds from private placements of our securities, loans and convertible notes. Our cash requirements are generally for selling, general and administrative activities. We believe that our cash balance is not sufficient to finance our cash requirements for expected operational activities, capital improvements, and partial repayment of debt through the next 12 months.
Our operating activities used cash of $1,844,519 for the year ended March 31, 2015, and we used cash in operations of $1,919,415 during the same period in 2014. The principal elements of cash flow from operations for the year ended March 31, 2015 included our net loss of $$5,088,956, offset by stock-based compensation of $2,176,163, share liability of $600,000 and financing expense related to a warrant issuance of $458,177.
Cash used in investing activities during the year ended March 31, 2015 was $40,251 compared to $694,707 during the same period in 2014. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in purchases of intangible assets ($293,750) and deferred acquisition costs ($395,823).
Cash generated in our financing activities was $1,229,167 for the year ended March 31, 2015, compared to cash generated of $3,276,613 during the comparable period in 2014. This decrease was primarily attributed to a reduction of proceeds from convertible debentures ($2,173,372) and notes payable ($136,425) of $$2,309,797, which was offset by the increase in proceeds from a warrant exercise of $250,000.
As of March 31, 2015, current liabilities exceeded our current assets by $1,320,072. Current assets decreased from $897,961 at March 31, 2014 to $333,355 at March 31, 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in cash ($603,809) offset by an increase in inventory ($90,987). Current liabilities decreased from $2,885,292 at March 31, 2014 to $1,678,713 at March 31, 2015. The decrease in liabilities was primarily attributable to decreases in derivative liability ($1,581,119) and convertible notes to financial institutions ($263,917) offset by an increase in share liability of $495,856.
| For the years ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| Cash used in operating activities | $ | (1,844,519 | ) | $ | (1,919,415 | ) | ||
| Cash used in investing activities | (40,251 | ) | (694,707 | ) | ||||
| Cash provided by financing activities | 1,229,167 | 3,276,613 | ||||||
Foreign currency translation effect | 51,794 | 7,382 | ||||||
| Net changes to cash (net of foreign currency translation effect) | $ | (603,809 | ) | $ | 669,873 | |||
Going Concern
As indicated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, the Company has incurred net operating losses of $5,088,956 and $12,168,772 for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Management’s plans include the raising of capital through equity markets to fund future operations and cultivating new license agreements or acquiring ownership in technology companies. Failure to raise adequate capital and generate adequate sales revenues could result in the Company having to curtail or cease operations. Additionally, even if the Company does raise sufficient capital to support its operating expenses, acquire new license agreements or ownership interests in medical companies and generate adequate revenues, there can be no assurances that the revenues will be sufficient to enable it to develop business to a level where it will generate profits and cash flows from operations. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. However, the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. These consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recovery of the recorded assets or the classification of the liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
| 32 |
Contractual Obligations
Not Applicable
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As of March 31, 2015, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new standard requires lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the lessee. This classification will determine whether lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. A lessee is also required to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term of greater than 12 months regardless of their classification. Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases. The new guidance will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period and is applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently in the process of assessing the impact the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In August 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements—Going Concern” (“ASU No. 2014-15”). The provisions of ASU No. 2014-15 require management to assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern by incorporating and expanding upon certain principles that are currently in U.S. auditing standards. Specifically, the amendments (1) provide a definition of the term substantial doubt, (2) require an evaluation every reporting period including interim periods, (3) provide principles for considering the mitigating effect of management’s plans, (4) require certain disclosures when substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of consideration of management’s plans, (5) require an express statement and other disclosures when substantial doubt is not alleviated, and (6) require an assessment for a period of one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or available to be issued). The amendments in this ASU are effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern, that outlines management’s responsibility in evaluating whether there is substantial doubt about a company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year from the date the financial statements are issued. The amendment is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-10, “Development Stage Entities (Topic 915): Elimination of Certain Financial Reporting Requirements, Including an Amendment to Variable Interest Entities Guidance in Topic 810, Consolidation” (ASU 2014-10). ASU 2014-10 removes all incremental financial reporting requirements regarding development-stage entities, including the removal of Topic 915 from the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. In addition, ASU 2014-10 adds an example disclosure in Risks and Uncertainties (Topic 275) to illustrate one way that an entity that has not begun planned operations could provide information about risks and uncertainties related to the company’s current activities. ASU 2014-10 also removes an exception provided to development-stage entities in Consolidations (Topic 810) for determining whether an entity is a variable interest entity. Effective with the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2015, the presentation and disclosure requirements of Topic 915 will no longer be required. The revisions to Consolidation (Topic 810) are effective the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. The Company early adopted the provisions of ASU 2014-10 effective for the year ended March 31, 2015.
| 33 |
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition”, and most industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The amendments in ASU 2014-09 will be applied using one of two retrospective methods. The effective date will be the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2018. We have not determined the potential effects on our consolidated financial statements.
There are several other new accounting pronouncements issued or proposed by the FASB. Each of these pronouncements, as applicable, has been or will be adopted by the Company. Management does not believe any of these accounting pronouncements has had or will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or operating results.
Critical Accounting Policies
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for Stock-Based Compensation under ASC 718 “Compensation-Stock Compensation”, which addresses the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods or services, with a primary focus on transactions in which an entity obtains employee services in share-based payment transactions. ASC 718-10 requires measurement of cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award (with limited exceptions). Incremental compensation costs arising from subsequent modifications of awards after the grant date must be recognized.
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees in accordance with ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Under ASC 505-50, the Company determines the fair value of the warrants or stock-based compensation awards granted as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. Any stock options or warrants issued to non-employees are recorded in expense and an offset to additional paid-in capital in shareholders’ equity/(deficit) over the applicable service periods using variable accounting through the vesting dates based on the fair value of the options or warrants at the end of each period.
The Company issues stock to consultants for various services. The costs for these transactions are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (1) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (2) the date at which the counterparty’s performance is complete. The Company recognized consulting expense and a corresponding increase to additional paid-in-capital related to stock issued for services.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, primarily fixed assets, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. The Company will perform a periodic assessment of assets for impairment in the absence of such information or indicators. Conditions that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, a significant change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, or a significant adverse change that would indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets is not recoverable. For long-lived assets to be held and used, the Company would recognize an impairment loss only if its carrying amount is not recoverable through its undiscounted cash flows and measures the impairment loss based on the difference between the carrying amount and estimated fair value.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
As the Company is a “smaller reporting company,” this item is inapplicable.
| 34 |
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
| 35 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Tauriga Sciences, Inc.
Danbury, Connecticut
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. (the “Company”) as of March 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the years then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform an audit of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit 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 consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. as of March 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of its consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has sustained significant operating losses and needs to obtain additional financing or restructure its current obligations. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 1. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
/s/ KBL, LLP
New York, NY
May 20, 2016
| F-1 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(IN US$)
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| (Restated*) | ||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| Current assets: | ||||||||
| Cash | $ | 209,098 | $ | 812,907 | ||||
| Inventory | 90,987 | - | ||||||
| Investment - available for sale security | 4,063 | 62,500 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 29,207 | 22,554 | ||||||
| Total current assets | 333,355 | 897,961 | ||||||
| Property and equipment, net | 25,286 | 24,616 | ||||||
| Other assets: | ||||||||
| Deferred financing fees | - | 34,014 | ||||||
| Total assets | $ | 358,641 | $ | 956,591 | ||||
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT | ||||||||
| Current liabilities: | ||||||||
| Notes payable to individuals | $ | 48,775 | $ | 56,425 | ||||
| Convertible notes to financial institutions | - | 263,917 | ||||||
| Accounts payable | 272,063 | 294,855 | ||||||
| Accrued interest | 14,431 | 26,107 | ||||||
| Accrued expenses | 271,216 | 289,930 | ||||||
| Accrued professional fees | 486,372 | 372,939 | ||||||
| Liability for common stock to be issued | 495,856 | - | ||||||
| Derivative liability | 90,000 | 1,581,119 | ||||||
| Total current liabilities | 1,678,713 | 2,885,292 | ||||||
| Commitments and contingencies | - | - | ||||||
| Stockholders’ deficit: | ||||||||
| Common stock, par value $0.00001; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized, 899,007,530 and 647,071,126 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively | 8,990 | 6,470 | ||||||
| Additional paid-in capital | 48,150,896 | 42,400,892 | ||||||
| Accumulated deficit | (49,243,640 | ) | (44,154,684 | ) | ||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (236,318 | ) | (181,379 | ) | ||||
| Total stockholders’ deficit | (1,320,072 | ) | (1,928,701 | ) | ||||
| Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit | $ | 358,641 | $ | 956,591 | ||||
* See Note 14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-2 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(IN US$)
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| (Restated*) | ||||||||
| Revenues | $ | 96,161 | $ | - | ||||
| Cost of goods sold | 41,802 | - | ||||||
| Gross profit | 54,359 | - | ||||||
| Operating expenses | ||||||||
| General and administrative | 3,882,347 | 6,142,174 | ||||||
| Impairment of notes receivable | 175,100 | - | ||||||
| Impairment of license agreements | 100,000 | 1,355,988 | ||||||
| Impairment of patents | - | 1,791,460 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization expense | 11,286 | 111,304 | ||||||
| Total operating expenses | 4,168,733 | 9,400,926 | ||||||
| Loss from operations | (4,114,374 | ) | (9,400,926 | ) | ||||
| Other income (expense) | ||||||||
| Interest expense | (186,693 | ) | (572,571 | ) | ||||
| Financing expense | (1,131,514 | ) | - | |||||
| Change in derivative liability | 343,625 | (1,409,877 | ) | |||||
| Terminated acquisition costs | - | (395,823 | ) | |||||
| Amortization of debt discount | - | (68,575 | ) | |||||
| Loss on conversion of debt | - | (321,000 | ) | |||||
| Total other income (expense) - net | (974,582 | ) | (2,767,846 | ) | ||||
| Net loss | (5,088,956 | ) | (12,168,772 | ) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | ||||||||
| Change in unrealized loss on available for sale security | (58,437 | ) | (187,500 | ) | ||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 3,498 | 6,121 | ||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) | (54,939 | ) | (181,379 | ) | ||||
| Comprehensive loss | $ | (5,143,895 | ) | $ | (12,350,151 | ) | ||
| Net loss per share - Basic and diluted | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.03 | ) | ||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic and diluted | 786,403,218 | 349,147,736 | ||||||
* See Note 14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-3 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN US$)
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| (Restated*) | ||||||||
| Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (5,088,956 | ) | $ | (12,168,772 | ) | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | 2,176,163 | 4,034,370 | ||||||
| Impairment of patents | - | 1,791,460 | ||||||
| Impairment of note receivable | 175,100 | - | ||||||
| Impairment of license agreements | - | 1,355,988 | ||||||
| Note payable discount amortization | - | 68,575 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 11,286 | 111,304 | ||||||
| Loss on conversion of debt | - | 321,000 | ||||||
| Issuance of a warrant for financing expense | 458,175 | - | ||||||
| Issuance of stock for financing expense | 103,947 | - | ||||||
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 34,014 | 123,986 | ||||||
| Accretion on convertible notes payable | 70,022 | 364,545 | ||||||
| Change in derivative liability | (343,625 | ) | 1,409,877 | |||||
| Costs of terminated acquisition | - | 395,823 | ||||||
| Share liability | 600,000 | - | ||||||
| Decrease (increase) in assets | ||||||||
| Inventory | (90,987 | ) | - | |||||
| Other receivables | - | 7,906 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses | (34,308 | ) | 21,980 | |||||
| Increase (decrease) in liabilities | ||||||||
| Accounts payable | (22,791 | ) | 77,799 | |||||
| Accrued interest | 12,722 | 68,889 | ||||||
| Accrued expenses | (18,714 | ) | 141,582 | |||||
| Accrued professional fees | 113,433 | (45,727 | ) | |||||
| Cash used in operating activities | (1,844,519 | ) | (1,919,415 | ) | ||||
| Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||
| Purchase of equipment | (11,956 | ) | (5,134 | ) | ||||
| Purchase of intangible assets | - | (293,750 | ) | |||||
| Deferred acquisition costs | (28,295 | ) | (395,823 | ) | ||||
| Cash used in investing activities | (40,251 | ) | (694,707 | ) | ||||
| Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||
| Proceeds from notes payable | - | 136,425 | ||||||
| Payment for financing costs | - | (23,000 | ) | |||||
| Proceeds from the sale of common stock | 1,118,500 | 989,816 | ||||||
| Proceeds from convertible debentures | - | 2,173,372 | ||||||
| Payment of convertible debenture | (83,333 | ) | - | |||||
| Proceeds from warrant exercise | 250,000 | - | ||||||
| Commissions paid on sales of common stock | (56,000 | ) | - | |||||
| Cash provided by financing activities | 1,229,167 | 3,276,613 | ||||||
| Foreign currency translation effect | 51,794 | 7,382 | ||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash | (603,809 | ) | 669,873 | |||||
| Cash, beginning of period | 812,907 | 143,034 | ||||||
| Cash, end of period | $ | 209,098 | $ | 812,907 | ||||
* See Note 14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-4 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN US$)
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| (Restated*) | ||||||||
| SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: | ||||||||
| Interest Paid | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
| Taxes Paid | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
| NON CASH ITEMS | ||||||||
| Conversion of convertible debentures to common Stock | $ | 1,473,196 | $ | 2,607,759 | ||||
| Conversion of accrued interest to common stock | $ | 24,398 | $ | 50,786 | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for license common stock agreement | $ | 100,000 | $ | - | ||||
| Available for sale security received as payment for deferred commercialization costs | $ | 100,000 | $ | - | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for share liability | $ | 104,144 | $ | - | ||||
| Impairment of available for sale security | $ | 58,437 | $ | 187,500 | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for cashless warrant exercise | $ | 267 | $ | - | ||||
| Note receivable from terminated acquisition | $ | 170,000 | $ | - | ||||
| Conversion of accounts payable to common stock | $ | - | $ | 60,000 | ||||
| Purchase of intangible assets with common stock issuance of warrants | $ | - | $ | 2,956,101 | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for investment in available for sale security | $ | - | $ | 250,000 | ||||
| Issuance of common stock for deferred financing costs | $ | - | $ | 135,000 | ||||
* See Note 14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-5 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
For the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014
(IN US$)
| Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | other | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number of | paid-in | Accumulated | comprehensive | stockholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||
| shares | Amount | capital | deficit | income (loss) | deficit | |||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at Apri1 1, 2013 | 226,449,077 | $ | 2,264 | $ | 31,000,267 | $ | (31,985,912 | ) | $ | (1,261 | ) | $ | (984,642 | ) | ||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to former chief financial officer at $0.02 to $0.07 per share | 860,000 | 9 | 25,891 | 25,900 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for cash at $0.03 to $0.06 per share | 36,644,631 | 366 | 989,450 | 989,816 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to chief executive officer and former CEO at $0.02 to $0.09 per share | 31,720,000 | 318 | 995,583 | 995,901 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to convert convertible debt at $0.01 to $0.09 per share | 191,604,392 | 1,916 | 2,750,220 | 2,752,136 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to consultants at $0.01 to $0.09 per share | 140,945,200 | 1,409 | 2,753,972 | 2,755,381 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to finalize licensing agreement at $0.04 | 2,500,000 | 25 | 106,225 | 106,250 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to settle accounts payable at $0.04 per share | 1,500,000 | 15 | 59,985 | 60,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for loan commitment fees at $0.02 to $0.03 per share | 10,500,000 | 105 | 254,895 | 255,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for available for sale investments at $0.06 per share | 4,347,826 | 43 | 249,957 | 250,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | 364,596 | 364,596 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Strategic alliance warrant valuation | 1,139,851 | 1,139,851 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrant issued to acquire Pilus Energy, LLC | 1,710,000 | 1,710,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Impairment of available for sale securities | (187,500 | ) | (187,500 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation adkjustment | 7,382 | 7,382 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss for the year ended March 31, 2014 | (12,168,772 | ) | (12,168,772 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2014 (Restated*) | 647,071,126 | $ | 6,470 | $ | 42,400,892 | $ | (44,154,684 | ) | $ | (181,379 | ) | $ | (1,928,701 | ) | ||||||||||
* See Note 14
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-6 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
For the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014
(IN US$)
| Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Additional | other | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number of | paid-in | Accumulated | comprehensive | stockholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||
| shares | Amount | capital | deficit | income (loss) | deficit | |||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for cash at $0.01 to $0.06 per share | 69,175,657 | 692 | 1,117,808 | 1,118,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to chief executive officer at $0.01 to $0.07 per share | 4,200,000 | 42 | 118,958 | 119,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to convert convertible debt at $0.01 to $0.09 per share | 61,726,433 | 617 | 1,496,977 | 1,497,594 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares to consultants at $0.01 to $0.07 per share | 40,255,837 | 403 | 298,720 | 299,123 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for fee to convert convertible debenture at $0.04 | 1,250,000 | 12 | 49,988 | 50,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for additional financing costs at $0.02 | 2,697,369 | 27 | 53,920 | 53,947 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for warrant exercised at $0.01 per share | 12,211,400 | 122 | 249,878 | 250,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for settlement agreement at $0.01 per share | 20,000,000 | 200 | 103,944 | 104,144 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for license agreement at $0.01 per share | 10,869,565 | 109 | 99,891 | 100,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of shares for cashless warrant exercise | 26,660,143 | 267 | (267 | ) | - | |||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation vesting | 1,758,012 | 1,758,012 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Issuance of a warrant for financing expense | 458,175 | 458,175 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commissions on sales of common stock | 2,890,000 | 29 | (56,000 | ) | (55,971 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Impairment of available for sale securities | (58,437 | ) | (58,437 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 3,498 | 3,498 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss for the year ended March 31, 2015 | (5,088,956 | ) | (5,088,956 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at March 31, 2015 | 899,007,530 | $ | 8,990 | $ | 48,150,896 | $ | (49,243,640 | ) | $ | (236,318 | ) | $ | (1,320,072 | ) | ||||||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
| F-7 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 – BASIS OF OPERATIONS
Nature of Business
The Company, prior to December 12, 2011, was involved in the business of exploiting new technologies for the production of clean energy. The Company was then moving in the direction of a diversified biotechnology company. The mission of the Company is to evaluate potential acquisition candidates operating in the life sciences technology space. The Company’s revenue in fiscal 2015 was generated from its natural wellness cannabis complement line launched in August 2014.
The Company’s activities are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including failing to secure additional funding, success in developing and marketing its products and the level of competition.
In May 2011, the Company had entered into an exclusive memorandum of understanding with Immunovative Therapies, Ltd. (“ITL”) (an Israeli company) whereby the Company would acquire a subsidiary of ITL. On December 12, 2011, the Company terminated this memorandum of understanding and entered into a License Agreement (the “License Agreement”) with ITL, pursuant to which the Company received an immediate exclusive and worldwide license to commercialize all the Licensed Products based on ITL’s current and future patents and a patent in-licensed from the University of Arizona. The license granted covers two experimental products for the treatment of cancer in clinical development called AlloStim TM and Allo Vax TM (“Licensed Products”). On May 8, 2012, the Company changed its name to Immunovative, Inc. to better reflect its new direction on the development and commercialization of the next generation of immunotherapy treatments.
On January 8, 2013, the Company received from ITL, a notice by which ITL purported to terminate the License Agreement dated December 9, 2011 between the Company and ITL (the “ITL Notice”), along with alleged damages. It is the Company’s position that ITL breached the License Agreement by delivering the ITL Notice and, that prior to the ITL Notice, the License Agreement was in full force and, on January 17, 2013, and that the Company had complied in all material respects with the License Agreement and therefore the Company believes that there are no damages to ITL. As such, on January 17, 2013, the Company filed a lawsuit against ITL, which included the request for various injunctive relief against ITL for damages stemming from this breach. On February 19, 2013, the Company and ITL entered into a settlement agreement whereby the parties have agreed to the following: (1) the Company will submit a letter to the Court advising the Court that the parties have reached a settlement and that the Company is withdrawing its motion, (2) ITL will pay the Company $20,000, (3) ITL will issue to the Company, ITL’s share capital equivalent to 9% of the issued and outstanding shares of ITL, (4) the Company will change its name and (5) the settling parties agree that the license agreement will be terminated.
On March 13, 2013, the Company changed its name to Tauriga Sciences, Inc. to better reflect its new direction. The Company traded under the symbol “TAUG” beginning April 9, 2013.
On May 31, 2013, the Company signed a Licensing Agreement with Green Hygienics, Inc. (“GHI”) to enable the Company, on an exclusive basis for North America, to market and sell 100% tree-free, bamboo-based, biodegradable, hospital grade wipes, as well as other similar products. The Company contracted to pay $250,000 for the licensing rights. In addition, the Company issued 4,347,826 shares of its common stock to GHI whereas GHI’s parent company, Green Innovations Ltd. (“GNIN”) has issued the Company 625,000 shares of common stock of GNIN, valued at $250,000. The Company paid $143,730 in cash to GHI and, in lieu of the remaining $106,270 to be paid in cash the Company issued an additional 2,500,000 shares of its common stock for the licensing rights. See Note 4.
| F-8 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On October 29, 2013, the Company entered into a strategic alliance with Bacterial Robotics, LLC (Bacterial Robotics). Bacterial Robotics owns certain patents and/or other intellectual property related to the development of genetically modified micro-organisms (GMOs) and GMOs tailored to perform one or more specific functions, one such GMO being adopted to clean polluting molecules from nuclear waste, such GMO being referred herein as the existing BactoBot Technology (the BR Technology). Bacterial Robotics is developing a whitepaper to deliver to the Company for acceptance. Upon acceptance by the Company, the parties will form a strategic relationship through the formation of a joint venture in which the Company will be the majority and controlling owner which will use the NuclearBot Technology to further the growth of the nuclear wastewater treatment market. The intent is for Bacterial Robotics to issue a 10-year license agreement. In connection with the strategic alliance agreement, the Company issued a warrant to purchase 75,000,000 shares of its common stock valued at $1,100,000 and paid an additional $50,000 in cash. The Company fully impaired this as of March 31, 2014, as there was no value in the agreement, and the Company would not pursue any of the technology associated with the patents.
On November 25, 2013, the Company executed a definitive agreement to acquire Pilus Energy, LLC (“Pilus”), an Ohio limited liability company and a developer of alternative cleantech energy platforms using proprietary microbial solutions that creates electricity while consuming polluting molecules from wastewater. Pilus is converging digester, fermenter, scrubber, and other proven technologies into a scalable Electrogenic Bioreactor (“EBR”) platform. This transformative technology is the basis of the Pilus Cell™. The EBR harnesses genetically enhanced bacteria, also known as bacterial robots, or BactoBots™, that remediate water, harvest direct current (“DC”) electricity, and produce economically important gases. The EBR accomplishes this through bacterial metabolism, specifically cellular respiration of nearly four hundred carbon and nitrogen molecules. Pilus’ highly metabolic bacteria are non-pathogenic. Because of the mediated biofilm formation, these wastewater-to-value BactoBots resist heavy metal poisoning, swings of pH, and survive in a 4-to-45 degree Celsius temperature range. Additionally, the BactoBots are anaerobically and aerobically active, even with low BOD/COD. On January 28, 2014, the acquisition was completed. Pilus will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. As a condition of the acquisition, Pilus will get one seat on the board of directors, and the shareholders of Pilus will receive a warrant to purchase 100,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company, which represented a fair market value of approximately $2,000,000. In addition, the Company paid Bacterial Robotics, LLC (“BRLLC”), formerly the parent company of Pilus, $50,000 on signing the memorandum of understanding and $50,000 at the time of closing. The only asset Pilus had on its balance sheet at the time of the acquisition was a patent. The Company determined that the value of the acquisition on January 28, 2014 would be equal to the value of cash paid to Pilus plus the value of the 100,000,000 warrants they issued to acquire Pilus. Through March 31, 2014, the Company amortized the patent over its estimated useful life, then on March 31, 2014, the Company conducted its annual impairment test and determined that the entire unamortized balance should be impaired as the necessary funding to further develop the patent was not available at that time.
On March 10, 2014, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire California based Honeywood, LLC (“Honeywood”), a developer of a tropical medicinal cannabis product which is a therapeutic cream that currently sells in numerous dispensaries across the State of California. This definitive agreement was valid for a period of 120 days and the Company advanced to Honeywood approximately $175,000 in cash and incurred legal fees and other costs of approximately $249,000 through September 24, 2014. The Company wrote off all costs associated with this at March 31, 2014 and 2015 as the Company is not pursuing any operations that Honeywood has the technology for.
| F-9 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On July 15, 2014, the Company completed its acquisition of California-based medicinal cannabis firm Honeywood LLC, the formulator for Doc Green’s topical cannabis cream and for other products. Under terms of the completed acquisition agreement, Honeywood will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The final acquisition terms result in stakeholders of Honeywood receiving 15.5% of Tauriga Sciences non-diluted shares of common stock outstanding immediately prior to closing. Honeywood’s principals have the opportunity to collectively earn up to an additional aggregate equal to 10% of Tauriga’s common stock outstanding (utilizing the same initial Closing Date) upon achieving the following gross revenue based milestones: upon the generation and receipt of $2,000,000 USD of gross revenues derived strictly from the sale and licensing of Honeywood’s products, the three Honeywood principals shall each be issued either restricted stock or stock options equal to 1.6666% shares of Common Stock of Tauriga; upon the generation and receipt of an additional $2,000,000 USD ($4,000,000 USD total gross revenues by Honeywood), its three principals shall each be issued an additional 1.6666% shares of Common Stock of Tauriga (each such additional issuance to be set off the outstanding shares immediately prior to the Closing Date).
In connection with the Honeywood acquisition, the Company entered into employment agreements with three Honeywood executives effective upon closing. The agreements are for a term of three years and provide for monthly payments of $7,000 each, an aggregate of $21,000, and commissions based on new business generated, as defined in the agreements.
On September 24, 2014, the Company, Honeywood, and each of the Honeywood executives entered into an agreement to unwind the acquisition and the transactions entered into therewith, including a refund of certain advances made by the Company to Honeywood. As a result, the acquisition agreement and employment agreements with the Honeywood executives were terminated and Honeywood issued a secured promissory note to the Company in the amount of $170,000. The note is to be paid, together with interest thereon of 6% from October 1, 2014, in six quarterly installments commencing on March 31, 2015 and ending on June 30, 2016. The promissory note is secured by all of the assets of Honeywood, as defined in the security agreement. The Company and Honeywood also entered into a license agreement (See Note 9). The initial payment pursuant to the promissory note of $33,462 was due March 31, 2015 and was never paid. Based on the financial position of Honeywood, the Company believes that the potential legal costs to enforce its rights pursuant to the terms of the promissory note will be in excess of any compensation it will potentially receive and has deemed the promissory note worthless at March 31, 2015. An amount of $175,100, representing the principal balance of the note and accrued interest income of $5,100 has been recorded as a charge to operations at March 31, 2015.
Going Concern
As indicated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, the Company has incurred net operating losses of $5,088,956 and $12,168,772 for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Management’s plans include the raising of capital through equity markets to fund future operations and cultivating new license agreements or acquiring ownership in technology companies. Failure to raise adequate capital and generate adequate sales revenues could result in the Company having to curtail or cease operations. Additionally, even if the Company does raise sufficient capital to support its operating expenses, acquire new license agreements or ownership interests in medical companies and generate adequate revenues, there can be no assurances that the revenues will be sufficient to enable it to develop business to a level where it will generate profits and cash flows from operations. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. However, the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. These consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recovery of the recorded assets or the classification of the liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
| F-10 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Consolidated Financial Statements
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts and activities of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. and its wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary, Tauriga Canada, Inc. All inter-company transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized when realized or realizable, and when the earnings process is complete, which is generally upon the shipment of products.
Foreign Currency Translation
Commencing with the quarter ended June 30, 2012, the Company considers the U.S. dollar to be its functional currency. Prior to March 31, 2012, the Company considered the Canadian dollar to be its functional currency. Assets and liabilities were translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates. Statement of operations amounts were translated using the average rate during the year. Gains and losses resulting from translating foreign currency financial statements were included in accumulated other comprehensive gain or loss, a separate component of stockholders’ deficit.
Cash Equivalents
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash equivalents include investment instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. At March 31, 2015, the Company had no cash at any financial institution which exceeded the total FDIC insurance limit of $250,000. At March 31, 2014, the Company had cash at two financial institutions, which exceeded the FDIC insured limit of $250,000. To reduce its risk associated with the failure of such financial institution, the Company evaluates at least annually the rating of the financial institution in which it holds deposits.
Inventory
Inventory consists of raw materials, production in progress and finished goods and is stated at the lower of cost or market determined by the first-in, first-out method.
Property and Equipment and Depreciation
Property and equipment is stated at cost and is depreciated using the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Routine maintenance, repairs and replacement costs are expensed as incurred and improvements that extend the useful life of the assets are capitalized. When property and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in operations.
| F-11 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consisted of licensing fees and a patent prior to being impaired which were stated at cost. Licenses were amortized over the life of the agreement and patents were amortized over the remaining life of the patent at the date of acquisition.
Net Loss Per Common Share
The Company computes per share amounts in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 260 Earnings per Share (“EPS”) which requires presentation of basic and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is computed by dividing the income (loss) available to Common Stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is based on the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock and Common Stock equivalents outstanding during the periods. A fully diluted calculation is not presented since the results would be anti-dilutive.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for Stock-Based Compensation under ASC 718 “Compensation-Stock Compensation”, which addresses the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods or services, with a primary focus on transactions in which an entity obtains employee services in share-based payment transactions. ASC 718-10 requires measurement of cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award (with limited exceptions). Incremental compensation costs arising from subsequent modifications of awards after the grant date must be recognized.
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees in accordance with ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Under ASC 505-50, the Company determines the fair value of the warrants or stock-based compensation awards granted as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. Any stock options or warrants issued to non-employees are recorded in expense and an offset to additional paid-in capital in shareholders’ equity/(deficit) over the applicable service periods using variable accounting through the vesting dates based on the fair value of the options or warrants at the end of each period.
The Company issues stock to consultants for various services. The costs for these transactions are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (1) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (2) the date at which the counterparty’s performance is complete. The Company recognized consulting expense and a corresponding increase to additional paid-in-capital related to stock issued for services.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The Company has adopted ASC 220 effective January 1, 2012 which requires entities to report comprehensive income (loss) within a continuous statement of comprehensive income.
Comprehensive income (loss) is a more inclusive financial reporting methodology that includes disclosure of information that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income (loss).
| F-12 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, primarily fixed assets, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. The Company will perform a periodic assessment of assets for impairment in the absence of such information or indicators. Conditions that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, a significant change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, or a significant adverse change that would indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets is not recoverable. For long-lived assets to be held and used, the Company would recognize an impairment loss only if its carrying amount is not recoverable through its undiscounted cash flows and measures the impairment loss based on the difference between the carrying amount and estimated fair value.
Research and Development
The Company expenses research and development costs as incurred. Research and development costs were $78,883 and $0 in the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Fair Value Measurements
ASC 820 Fair Value Measurements defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosure about fair value measurements.
The following provides an analysis of financial instruments that are measured subsequent to initial recognition at fair value, grouped into Levels 1 to 3 based on the degree to which fair value is observable:
Level 1- fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted in active markets for identical assets or liabilities);
Level 2- fair value measurements are those derived from inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices); and
Level 3- fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).
Financial instruments classified as Level 1 - quoted prices in active markets include cash.
These consolidated financial instruments are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment to estimation. Valuations based on unobservable inputs are highly subjective and require significant judgments. Changes in such judgments could have a material impact on fair value estimates. In addition, since estimates are as of a specific point in time, they are susceptible to material near-term changes. Changes in economic conditions may also dramatically affect the estimated fair values.
| F-13 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Fair value estimates discussed herein are based upon certain market assumptions and pertinent information available to management as of March 31, 2015 and 2014. The respective carrying value of certain financial instruments approximated their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments. These financial instruments include cash, accounts payable and accrued expenses.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivatives are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value. The conversion features of the convertible debentures are embedded derivatives and are separately valued and accounted for on the consolidated balance sheet with changes in fair value recognized during the period of change as a separate component of other income/expense. Fair values for exchange-traded securities and derivatives are based on quoted market prices. The pricing model we use for determining fair value of our derivatives is the Monte Carlo Pricing Model. Valuations derived from this model are subject to ongoing internal and external verification and review. The model uses market-sourced inputs such as interest rates and stock price volatilities. Selection of these inputs involves management’s judgment and may impact net income. During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company utilized an expected life ranging from 66 days to 325 days based upon the look-back period of its convertible debentures and notes and volatility in the range of 166% to 196%. During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company utilized an expected life ranging from 180 days to 360 days based upon the look-back period of its convertible debentures and notes and volatility in the range of 89% to 172%.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under the liability method, future tax liabilities and assets are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the amounts reported in the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Future tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted or substantially enacted income tax rates expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability settled. The effect of a change in income tax rates on future income tax liabilities and assets is recognized in income in the period that the change occurs. Future income tax assets are recognized to the extent that they are considered more likely than not to be realized.
ASC 740 “Income Taxes” clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements. This standard requires a company to determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based upon the technical merits of the position. If the more-likely-than-not threshold is met, a company must measure the tax position to determine the amount to recognize in the financial statements.
As a result of the implementation of this standard, the Company performed a review of its material tax positions in accordance with recognition and measurement standards established by ASC 740 and concluded that the tax position of the Company does not meet the more-likely-than-not threshold as of March 31, 2015.
| F-14 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new standard requires lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase by the lessee. This classification will determine whether lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. A lessee is also required to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a term of greater than 12 months regardless of their classification. Leases with a term of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases. The new guidance will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period and is applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently in the process of assessing the impact the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In August 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements—Going Concern” (“ASU No. 2014-15”). The provisions of ASU No. 2014-15 require management to assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern by incorporating and expanding upon certain principles that are currently in U.S. auditing standards. Specifically, the amendments (1) provide a definition of the term substantial doubt, (2) require an evaluation every reporting period including interim periods, (3) provide principles for considering the mitigating effect of management’s plans, (4) require certain disclosures when substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of consideration of management’s plans, (5) require an express statement and other disclosures when substantial doubt is not alleviated, and (6) require an assessment for a period of one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or available to be issued). The amendments in this ASU are effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this ASU on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern, that outlines management’s responsibility in evaluating whether there is substantial doubt about a company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year from the date the financial statements are issued. The amendment is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-10, “Development Stage Entities (Topic 915): Elimination of Certain Financial Reporting Requirements, Including an Amendment to Variable Interest Entities Guidance in Topic 810, Consolidation” (ASU 2014-10). ASU 2014-10 removes all incremental financial reporting requirements regarding development-stage entities, including the removal of Topic 915 from the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. In addition, ASU 2014-10 adds an example disclosure in Risks and Uncertainties (Topic 275) to illustrate one way that an entity that has not begun planned operations could provide information about risks and uncertainties related to the company’s current activities. ASU 2014-10 also removes an exception provided to development-stage entities in Consolidations (Topic 810) for determining whether an entity is a variable interest entity. Effective with the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2015, the presentation and disclosure requirements of Topic 915 will no longer be required. The revisions to Consolidation (Topic 810) are effective the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. The Company early adopted the provisions of ASU 2014-10 effective for the year ended March 31, 2015.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition”, and most industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The amendments in ASU 2014-09 will be applied using one of two retrospective methods. The effective date will be the first quarter of our fiscal year ended March 31, 2018. We have not determined the potential effects on our consolidated financial statements.
There are several other new accounting pronouncements issued or proposed by the FASB. Each of these pronouncements, as applicable, has been or will be adopted by the Company. Management does not believe any of these accounting pronouncements has had or will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or operating results.
Subsequent Events
In accordance with ASC 855 “Subsequent Events” the Company evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date.
| F-15 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
The Company’s property and equipment is as follows:
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | Estimated Life | ||||||||
| Computers, office furniture and equipment | $ | 55,942 | $ | 55,085 | 3-5 years | |||||
| Technical equipment | 11,099 | — | 5 years | |||||||
| Total | 67,041 | 55,085 | ||||||||
| Less: accumulated depreciation | (41,755 | ) | (30,469 | ) | ||||||
| Net | $ | 25,286 | $ | 24,616 | ||||||
Depreciation expense in the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 amounted to $11,286 and $8,901, respectively.
NOTE 4 – INTANGIBLE ASSETS
License Agreements:
Immunovative Therapies, Ltd.
On December 12, 2011, the Company entered into a License Agreement (the “License Agreement”) with Immunovative Therapies, Ltd., an Israeli Corporation (“ITL”), pursuant to which the Company received an immediate exclusive and worldwide license to commercialize all product candidates (the “Licensed Products”) based on ITL’s current and future patents and a patent in-licensed from the University of Arizona. The license granted covers two experimental products for the treatment of cancer in clinical development called AlloStim TM and Allo Vaz TM (“Licensed Products”).
On January 8, 2013, the Company received from ITL, a notice by which ITL purported to terminate the License Agreement dated December 9, 2011 between the Company and ITL (the “ITL Notice”), along with alleged damages. It is the Company’s position that ITL breached the License Agreement by delivering the ITL Notice and, that prior to the ITL Notice, the License Agreement was in full force and, on January 17, 2013 and that the Company had complied in all material respect with the License Agreement therefore the Company believes that there are no damages to ITL. As such, on January 17, 2013, the Company filed a lawsuit against ITL, which included the request for various injunctive relief against ITL for damages stemming from this breach. On February 19, 2013, the Company and ITL entered into a settlement agreement whereby the parties have agreed to the following: (1) the Company will submit a letter to the Court advising the Court that the parties have reached a settlement and that the Company is withdrawing its motion, (2) ITL will pay the Company $20,000, (3) ITL will issue to the Company, ITL’s share capital equivalent to 9% of the issued and outstanding shares of ITL, (4) the Company will change its name and (5) the settling parties agree that the license agreement will be terminated. No value has been assigned to the ITL shares received, as they are deemed to be worthless. The Company, based upon its evaluation of the ITL financial statement, considered its investment in ITL to be impaired as the ITL Company had negative net worth and the funds advanced were being utilized for research, development and testing.
| F-16 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Green Hygienics, Inc.
On May 31, 2013, the Company executed a licensing agreement with GHI (see Notes 1 and 6). The Licensing Agreement with GHI will enable the Company, on an exclusive basis for North America, to market and sell 100% tree-free, bamboo-based, biodegradable, hospital grade wipes, as well as other similar products to commercial entities including medical facilities, schools, and more. The Company agreed to pay $250,000 for the licensing rights. In addition, the Company issued 4,347,826 shares of its common stock to GHI whereas GHI’s parent company, Green Innovations Ltd. (“GNIN”) has issued the Company 625,000 shares of common stock of GNIN, valued at $250,000. The terms of the Licensing Agreement provides the equal recognition of profits between the Company and GHI on the sales by the Company.
The Company has paid $143,730 of the $250,000 licensing fee in cash and issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock in lieu of the remaining $106,270. The Company amortizes the licensing fee over the five year life of the licensing agreement, and through March 31, 2014 the accumulated amortization amounts to $34,911. At March 31, 2014, the Company determined not to pursue the marketability for the related products and considered the remaining net value to be impaired, recording an impairment charge of $215,089.
Bacterial Robotics, LLC
On October 29, 2013, the Company entered into a strategic alliance agreement between the Company and Bacterial Robotics, LLC (the Parties) to develop a relationship for the research and development of the NuclearBot Technology that will be marketed and monetized pursuant to a Definitive Agreement. Accordingly, subject to the terms of this agreement, (a) Bacterial Robotics agrees to develop a whitepaper which may be delivered as a readable electronic file, on the subject of utilizing the NuclearBot Technology in the cleansing of nuclear wastewater created in the operation of a nuclear power plant (the “Whitepaper”), which Bacterial Robotics shall deliver to the Company within ninety (90) days of the agreement, which may be extended upon mutual agreement based upon unexpected complexities, and (b) the parties agree to use commercially reasonable efforts in good faith to (1) identify prospective pilot programs, projects and opportunities for the NuclearBot Technology for the Parties to strategically and jointly pursue, (2) enter into a joint venture, in which the Company will be the majority and controlling owner, for the purpose of (A) marketing and selling products and services utilizing the NuclearBot Technology, (B) sublicensing the NuclearBot Technology and (C) owning all improvements to the NuclearBot Technology, and other inventions and intellectual property, jointly developed by the Parties and (3) negotiate terms and conditions of Definitive Agreements. As consideration for the strategic alliance, the Company issued a $25,000 deposit upon signing the agreement. Additionally, the Company issued a 5 year warrant for up to 75,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock with a value of $1,139,851 and an additional $25,000 in cash. The Company amortizes the fee of $1,189,851 over the ten year life of the licensing agreement, and through March 31, 2014 the accumulated amortization amounted to $48,952. At March 31, 2014, the Company determined that it was not going to pursue the market nor invest additional capital to fund the commercialization and accordingly, considered the remaining net value to be impaired recording an impairment charge of $1,140,899.
Breathe Ecig Corp.
On March 31, 2015, the Company entered into a license agreement with Breathe Ecig Corp. (“Breathe”) whereby the Company issued 10,869,565 shares of its common stock, valued at $100,000, to Breathe for certain licensing rights, as defined in the agreement. Amortization of the license fee will commence on April 1, 2015 over the two-year term of the agreement (See Note 9). As Breathe is worthless as of the date of this report, the Company has written off the entire $100,000 value as of March 31, 2015.
| F-17 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
License agreements consist of the cost of license fees with Breathe Ecig Corp. ($100,000), Green Hygienics, Inc. ($250,000) and Bacterial Robotics, LLC ($1,189,851) at March 31, 2015 and Green Hygienics, Inc. ($250,000) and Bacterial Robotics, LLC ($1,189,851) at March 31. 2014, which were both determined to be impaired as of March 31, 2014. An analysis of the cost is as follows:
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | Estimated Life | ||||||||
| Licensing fee | $ | 1,539,851 | $ | 1,439,851 | 2-5 years | |||||
| Less: accumulated amortization | 83,863 | 83,863 | ||||||||
| 1,455,988 | 1,355,988 | |||||||||
| Net impairment | (1,455,988 | ) | (1,355,988 | ) | ||||||
| Balance | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||
Patents:
Pilus Energy, LLC
The Company, through the acquisition of Pilus Energy on January 28, 2014, acquired a patent to develop cleantech energy using proprietary microbiological solution that creates electricity while consuming polluting molecules from wastewater. The cost of the patent and related amortization at March 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
| Fair Value | Estimated Life | |||||
| Cash advanced on signing the memorandum of understanding and closing agreement | $ | 100,000 | 16.5 years | |||
| Fair value of the warrant for 100,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock | 1,710,000 | |||||
| Total | 1,810,000 | |||||
| Less amortization in the year ended March 31, 2014 | 18,540 | |||||
| Net value at March 31, 2014 prior to impairment | $ | 1,791,460 | ||||
| Impairment in the year ended March 31, 2014 | 1,791,460 | |||||
| Net value as of March 31, 2014 | — | |||||
| Activity - 2015 | — | |||||
| Net value as of March 31, 2015 | $ | — | ||||
| F-18 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5 – EMBEDDED DERIVATIVES – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Company entered into several financial instruments, which consist of notes payable, containing various conversion features. Generally the financial instruments are convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock; at prices that are either marked to the volume weighted average price of the Company’s intended publicly traded stock or a static price determinative from the financial instrument agreements. These prices may be at a significant discount to market determined by the volume weighted average price once the Company completes its reverse acquisition with the intended publicly traded company. The Company for all intent and purposes considers this discount to be fair market value as would be determined in an arm’s length transaction with a willing buyer.
The Company accounts for the fair value of the conversion feature in accordance with ASC 815-15, Derivatives and Hedging; Embedded Derivatives, which requires the Company to bifurcate and separately account for the conversion features as an embedded derivative contained in the Company’s convertible debt and original issue discount notes payable. The Company is required to carry the embedded derivative on its balance sheet at fair value and account for any unrealized change in fair value as a component in its results of operations. The Company valued the embedded derivatives using eight steps to determine fair value under ASC 820. (1) Identify the item to be valued and the unit of account. (2) Determine the principal or most advantageous market and the relevant market participants. (3) Select the valuation premise to be used for asset measurements. (4) Consider the risk assumptions applicable to liability measurements. (5) Identify available inputs. (6) Select the appropriate valuation technique(s). (7) Make the measurement. (8) Determine amounts to be recognized and information to be disclosed.
As of March 31, 2015, the Company has recognized a derivative liability of $90,000 associated with the Class B warrants issued to Hanover Holdings I, LLC. These warrants have been completely exercised as of June 1, 2015. As of March 31, 2014, the value of the derivative liability associated with the convertible notes was $1,581,119.
NOTE 6 – CONVERTIBLE NOTES AND NOTES PAYABLE
Convertible Notes Payable Institutions
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company entered into a number (approximately 30) of convertible note debentures and recorded gross proceeds of $2,037,000 with interest rates ranging from 5% to 12%. All of the note agreements had conversion features which allow the note holder to convert the debenture into common stock of the Company. The conversion price, which is discounted, was based upon either the lowest trading price for a period ranging between 20 and 25 days prior to the date of the notice of conversion or an average of the previous 20 to 25 days prior to conversion. Due to the variable characteristic of the notes, the Company had concluded that a derivative liability existed at the date of issuance and accordingly had recorded a derivative liability for each note. During the year ended March 31, 2015, 14 notes were converted to common stock and one was paid in cash and as of March 31, 2015 there were no convertible notes outstanding and no derivative liability associated with any of the notes payable. As of March 31, 2014, fifteen convertible notes were outstanding. The balance of the convertible notes at March 31, 2014 was $263,917. The related derivative liability was $1,581,119 at March 31, 2014.
During the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 61,726,433 and 191,604,392 shares of common shares, respectively were issued to convert $1,497,594 and $2,752,136 in convertible notes, derivative liabilities and accrued interest, respectively.
| F-19 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Convertible Notes Payable to Individuals
The Company at March 31, 2015 and 2014 has $48,775 and $56,425, respectively, of notes payable to individuals. The notes are convertible into common stock of the company at $0.025 per share. The interest rate is 8% per annum and the notes are unsecured. During the year ended March 31, 2015, three notes were converted to common stock.
Other
On October 19, 2012, the Company entered into a one year convertible promissory note agreement for $445,000 with JMJ Financial, a California based institutional investor. The note is non-interest bearing for the first 90 days and subsequent to that, the note has an interest rate of 5% per annum. The note, at the holder’s option, is convertible at $0.15 per share and if the price per share at the time of conversion is greater than $0.15 per share, on average for the previous 25 trading days, the conversion rate shall have a 25% discount, with the minimum price of $0.15 per share. The Company paid an origination fee of 200,000 shares of its common stock to secure the loan. On November 14, 2012, the Company received $150,000 and an additional $25,000 on March 27, 2013. The 25% discount created a beneficial conversion feature at the commitment date aggregating $37,500 representing a discount which is being accreted monthly from the issuance date of the note through maturity and is recorded as additional interest expense. At March 31, 2013, the loan balance was $106,425, net of unamortized discount of $68,575. On June 3, 2013 the Company issued 9,900,000 shares of its common stock to convert the note. Under the terms of the original agreement, approximately 4,125,000 shares were required to be issued. To entice the conversion, the Company issued an additional 5,775,000 shares resulting in a loss on conversion of $321,000 in the year ended March 31, 2014. The balance under this note as of March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $-0-.
Interest expense for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $186,693 and $572,571, respectively. Accrued interest at March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $14,431 and $26,107, respectively.
NOTE 7 – RELATED PARTIES
On May 31, 2013, the Company executed a licensing agreement with GHI (see Notes 1 and 4). The Company’s former CFO, Bruce Harmon, is also the CFO and Chairman of Green Innovations Ltd., the parent company of GHI.
| F-20 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)
Common Stock
The Company is authorized to issue 1,000,000,000 shares of its common stock. Effective March 31, 2015, 899,007,530 shares of common stock are outstanding. On July 9, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors (“BOD”) approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized common stock from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 shares and on July 17, 2015, the Company filed Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission calling for a special meeting of the stockholders that was held on July 27, 2015 to approve the amendment. See Note 13.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued to its current and former chief executive officer a total of 31,720,000 shares of its common stock at prices ranging from $0.02 to $0.09 per share for services.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued collectively 191,604,392 shares of its common stock at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.09 per share for the conversion of a $1,341,305 convertible debt.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued to various consultants collectively 140,945,200 shares of its common stock at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.09 per share.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 1,500,000 at $0.04 per share in settlement of legal fees.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 10,500,000 shares at $0.02 to $0.03 per share for a commitment fee relating to a convertible debt arrangement.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 4,347,826 shares of its common stock to Green Hygienics in connection with a license agreement.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares to fully pay up the Green Hygienics license fee. The shares were valued at $0.04 per share totaling $106,250.
In connection with the acquisition of Pilus Energy (See note 4), in January 2014, the Company issued a warrant to purchase 100,000,000 Shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.02 per share. The warrant was valued at $1,710,000 using the Black-Scholes Pricing Model.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 36,644,631 shares of common stock for cash at prices ranging from $0.03 to $0.06 per share.
In connection with the strategic license agreement with Bacterial Robotics, LLC, the Company issued on October 29, 2013 a warrant to acquire up to 75,000,000 Shares of the Company’s Common stock. The Warrant was valued at $1,139,851 utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing Model.
During the year ended March 31, 2014, the Company issued 860,000 shares to the Company’s former chief financial officer at prices ranging from $0.02 to $0.07 per share.
| F-21 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 61,413,497 shares of common stock at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.09 per share for the conversion of notes and accrued interest to financial institutions valued at $1,489,771.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 312,936 shares of common stock at $0.025 per share for the conversion of notes and accrued interest to individuals in the amount of $7,823.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 69,175,657 shares of common stock at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.06 per share for cash of $1,118,500 and 2,890,000 shares at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.02 per share, valued at $44,300, and $56,000 cash for commissions on sales of common stock.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 4,200,000 shares of common stock to its chief executive officer at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.07 per share, valued at $119,000, for services.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 40,255,837 shares of common stock to various consultants and advisory board members at prices ranging from $0.01 to $0.07 per share, valued at $299,123 (net of $670,362 not vested).
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 1,250,000 shares of common stock at $0.04 per share, valued at $50,000, to a financial institution for a fee to convert a convertible debenture.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 2,697,369 shares of common stock at $0.02 per share for additional financing costs, valued at $53,947.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 26,660,143 shares of common stock through cashless exercises of warrants at effective prices of $0.02 and $0.03 per share.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 12,211,400 shares of common stock valued at $147,500 issuable pursuant to a warrant exercised under a securities purchase agreement in the initial amount of $250,000.
During the year ended March 31, 2015, the Company issued 20,000,000 shares of common stock valued at $104,144 pursuant to a settlement agreement.
Effective March 31, 2015, the Company issued 10,869,565 shares of common stock valued at $100,000 pursuant to a license agreement.
| F-22 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On June 27, 2014, $250,000 in cash was released from escrow pursuant to a securities purchase agreement with Hanover Holdings I, LLC (“Hanover I”), as amended April 17, 2014, associated with the Company’s acquisition of Honeywood (see Note 1) and filing of a registration statement registering Company securities, whereby the Company agreed to issue shares of its common stock under a Class A and Class B warrant, as defined in the amended agreement. The Class A warrant provided for a fixed exercise price of $0.05 per share; the Class B warrant provided for an initial exercise price of $0.05, however, upon a drop of the market price below $0.05 based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock for a period of three consecutive trading days, the Class B warrant shall carry a call option premium of 135% and shall require payment of the shares within 5 business days in the form of either cash or a conversion into shares of the Company’s common stock based on the closing share price on the three days prior. As the securities purchase agreement was entered into in anticipation of the Honeywood acquisition and the filing of a registration statement, neither of which occurred, the Company and Hanover I informally have agreed to regard the $250,000 investment as an exercise under the terms of the Class B warrant. As a result, shares of Company common stock are to be issued, based on the call option premium amount of $337,500, upon the request of Hanover I. During the year ended March 31, 2015, 12,211,400 shares of common stock with a value of $147,500 have been issued to Hanover I. As of March 31, 2015, common stock valued at $190,000, 29,188,403 shares, is issuable to Hanover I. These shares have been issued as of June 3, 2015.
In connection with the consulting agreements and the board advisory agreements, certain agreements have as part of the compensation arrangements, the following clauses: a) the consultant will be reimbursed for all reasonable out of pocket expenses, b) to the extent the consultant introduces the Company to any sources of equity or debt arrangements, the Company agrees to pay 8% to 10% in cash and 8% to 10% in common stock of the Company of all cash amounts actually received by the Company and 2% for debt arrangements, and c) the Company, in its sole discretion, may make additional cash payments and/or issue additional shares of common stock to the consultant based upon the consultant’s performance.
| F-23 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
At the filing date of this SEC Form 10-K additional shares of common stock were issued or issuable as follows:
(i) 29,188,403 shares in connection with the Company’s amended stock purchase agreement with Hanover I; (ii) 525,000 shares to consultants and board members; (iii) 630,000 shares to the Chief Executive Officer and V.P. Strategic Planning; (iv) 12,500,000 shares for a financing fee related to a convertible debenture issuance; (v) 12,300,000 shares for a financing fee related to a debenture issuance; (vi) 33,000,000 shares reserved for issuance pursuant to a convertible debenture; (vii) 1,951,000 shares issuable in conversion of certain promissory notes. If all outstanding warrants and options (87,303,529 shares-net of 29,188,403 exercised) were exercised the total outstanding shares would be 1,077,160,652. On July 17, 2015, the Company filed a Schedule 14A, whereby the board of directors approved an increase in the authorized common stock of the Company from 1,000,000,000 shares to 2,500,000,000 shares. As a result of the increase, the Company will have the required capital to issue all of its potential common stock issuable as of March 31, 2015.
Warrants for Common Stock
The following table summarizes warrant activity for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
| Weighted | ||||||||||||||||
| Weighted- | Average | |||||||||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | ||||||||||||||
| Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | ||||||||||||||
| Shares | Price | Term | Value | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding at March 31, 2013 | 200,000 | 0.40 | 1.38 Years | — | ||||||||||||
| Granted | 175,000,000 | 0.02 | ||||||||||||||
| Expired | — | |||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Outstanding at March 31, 2014 | 175,200,000 | $ | 0.02 | 5.86 Years | $ | 10,050,000 | ||||||||||
| Granted | 41,399,803 | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||
| Expired | (200,000 | ) | (0.40 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Exercised | (38,871,543 | ) | (0.02 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Canceled | (71,036,328 | ) | (0.03 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Outstanding and exercisable at March 31, 2015 | 106,491,932 | $ | 0.02 | 4.49 Years | $ | — | ||||||||||
The warrants were valued utilizing the following assumptions employing the Black-Scholes Pricing Model:
| Year Ended March 31, 2015 | Year Ended March 31, 2014 | |||||||
| Volatility | 179 | % | 168.32% to 244.92 | % | ||||
| Risk-free rate | 0.39 | % | 1.34% to 0.41 | % | ||||
| Dividend | — | — | ||||||
| Expected life of warrants | 1.89 Years | 5 Years | ||||||
| F-24 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Stock Options
On February 1, 2012, the Company awarded to each of two former executives options to purchase 5,000,000 common shares, an aggregate of 10,000,000 shares. These options vested immediately and were for services performed. The Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $1,400,000 for the issuance of these options. The following weighted average assumptions were used for Black-Scholes option-pricing model to value these stock options:
| Volatility | 220 | % | ||
| Expected dividend rate | - | |||
| Expected life of options in years | 10 | |||
| Risk-free rate | 1.87 | % |
The following table summarizes option activity for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
| Weighted | ||||||||||||||||
| Weighted- | Average | |||||||||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | ||||||||||||||
| Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | ||||||||||||||
| Shares | Price | Term | Value | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding at March 31, 2013 | 10,000,000 | $ | 0.10 | 8.85 Years | $ | — | ||||||||||
| Granted | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Expired | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Outstanding at March 31, 2014 | 10,000,000 | $ | 0.10 | 7.85 Years | $ | — | ||||||||||
| Granted | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Expired | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Outstanding and exercisable at March 31, 2015 | 10,000,000 | $ | 0.10 | 6.85 Years | $ | — | ||||||||||
Stock-based compensation for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $2,176,163 and $4,229,518, respectively.
| F-25 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 9 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters
Typenex
On September 5, 2014, the Company’s transfer agent issued to Typenex Co-Investment, LLC (“Typenex”) 70,080,714 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Shares”) without a restrictive legend pursuant to a demand letter by Typenex to the transfer agent under a purported warrant issued in connection and arising from a convertible promissory note issued by the Company to Typenex on June 24, 2013 and subsequently terminated by an exchange and release agreement between the Company and Typenex on March 21, 2014. In response to its transfer agent’s actions, the Company filed for a preliminary injunction against Typenex and its transfer agent on September 8, 2014 in the Circuit Court for the 13th Judicial Circuit in and for Hillsbourgh County Florida (the “Court”), Case No. 12-CA-009076. On September 9, 2014, the Court issued the preliminary injunction requested by the Company against its transfer agent and Typenex. On October 9, 2014, subsequent to a hearing before the Court on September 3, 2014 requested by Typenex to vacate the preliminary injunction, the Court denied the request to vacate the injunction, indicating the Company had a substantial likelihood of success on the merits. The Court further ordered that the Shares be treated as cancelled on the books of the Company’s transfer agent. The Company believes all of Typenex’s claims to the Shares are frivolous and without merit. Additionally, the Company is contemplating the claims it has against Typenex. On January 16, 2015, the Company and Typenex entered into a settlement agreement whereas (i) Typenex has agreed to purchase, under a securities purchase agreement, an aggregate of $300,000 of shares of Company common stock, in three separate but related $100,000 tranches as defined in the agreement, at a price of 150% of the five day average closing sale price for the five trading days immediately preceding each tranche purchase; (ii) the Company will issue to Typenex 10,000,000 shares of Company common stock; (iii) if the net sales proceeds Typenex receives from the sale or transfer of the 10,000,000 shares is less than $600,000, the Company will, from time to time, issue Typenex additional shares so that the net sales proceeds equal, but do not exceed, $600,000. The Company has agreed to increase the authorized shares, if needed, to issue the shares pursuant to this agreement. The Company recorded a $600,000 charge for financing expense and share liability as of and for the year ended March 31, 2015. Through March 31, 2015, the Company issued 20,000,000 shares of common stock to Typenex of which Typenex sold shares and received $104,144 in net sales proceeds. Additionally, in February 2015, Typenex completed its initial share purchase under the agreement purchasing 4,278,990 shares for $100,000, approximately $0.02 per share. See Note 13.
| F-26 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Commitments
On February 26, 2014, Dr. Stella M. Sung was appointed Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”). Dr. Sung previously served as Chief Operating Officer under a two year employment agreement dated April 15, 2013. In conjunction with her appointment as CEO, the terms of her employment agreement were amended to provide for the following: (i) salary of $8,000 per month for March and April 2014, with a salary increase to $14,000 per month commencing on May 1, 2014 and thereafter; (ii) a one-time $25,000 cash bonus once the Company completes a minimum private placement financing of $750,000; (iii) a monthly restricted share allotment of 150,000 common shares effective May 1, 2014; (iv) a one-time S-8 share allotment of 2,500,000 common shares payable on May 27, 2014 or 90 days subsequent to her appointment as CEO; (v) other customary benefits.
On August 22, 2012, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Seth M. Shaw, its then CEO. The agreement provides for annual compensation of $132,000. Mr. Shaw previously elected to forgo cash compensation and receive 60,000 shares of the Company’s common stock on a monthly basis. However, as the only principal officer and director, he decided to take the cash compensation as well. Effective February 26, 2014, Mr Shaw resigned as CEO, Chairman and Officer and was appointed to the position of Vice President, Strategic Planning at which time his employment agreement was amended as follows: (i) salary of $8,000 per month for March and April 2014, with a salary increase to $9,500 per month commencing on May 1, 2014 and thereafter; (ii) a one-time $25,000 cash bonus once the Company completes a minimum private placement financing of $750,000; (iii) a monthly restricted share allotment of 60,000 common shares which continue as under his prior agreement; (iv) other customary benefits. On May 27, 2014 or 90 days subsequent to his resignation as CEO, Mr. Shaw shall be deemed a non-affiliate. Effective July 1, 2014, Mr. Shaw’s monthly salary was revised to $6,500 per month.
On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung submitted her resignation as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) and a member of the BOD. Simultaneously with Dr. Sung’s resignation, the BOD appointed Mr. Shaw as the Chairman of the BOD and its new Chief Executive Officer and appointed Ghalia Lahlou as its new interim Chief Financial Officer. See Note 13.
In connection with the Company’s employment contracts, the Company has commitments for monthly payments of approximately $46,500 in the twelve months ended March 31, 2016. See Note 13.
| F-27 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On September 24, 2014, in connection with the Company’s termination of the acquisition agreement with Honeywood, the Company and Honeywood entered into a license and supply agreement, whereby the Company, as defined in the agreement, is granted certain license and distribution rights to sell and distribute products offered for distribution by Honeywood. Among other terms, the license is nonexclusive, worldwide, irrevocable, fully paid-up and royalty-free. Unless earlier terminated, as defined in the agreement, the license will automatically renew annually for the initial one year term and five successive renewal terms.
On July 15, 2014, the Company entered into a non-exclusive license agreement with Targeted Medical Pharma, Inc. (“Targeted”) whereby Targeted granted the Company the right to sell certain dietary supplements based on Targeted’s formulations on a non-exclusive basis. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company paid targeted $20,000 which was considered an advance against any royalty payments due Targeted on the first 20,000 1-month supply bottles sold by the Company, as defined in the agreement. Thereafter, the royalty payment increases to $2.50 per 1-month supply bottle. In addition, there are provisions for certain revenue-based milestone payments, as defined in the agreement. The term of the agreement is for one year. Subsequently, the agreement was terminated by the Company simultaneously with the divestiture of the Natural Wellness business during August 2015.
On August 14, 2014, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Dragoon Capital, Inc. (“Dragoon”), for financial advisory services, including assisting the Company in raising funds through an equity private placement. Pursuant to the agreement the Company will pay Dragoon a finder’s fee of 2% in cash and 2% in stock of all funds received by the Company through Dragoon’s direct or indirect introduction. On November 11, 2014, the Company and Dragoon amended the agreement whereas the finder’s fee was revised to 2.0% in cash and 1.0% in stock. In connection with the agreement, in November 2014, the Company issued Dragoon 280,000 shares of common stock valued at $3,500 and paid $7,000 cash as commission on $350,000 in proceeds received by the Company from the sale of common stock. The agreement expired November 30, 2014.
On August 19, 2014, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Alternative Strategy Partners, Pty, LTD (“ASP”). ASP will provide the Company specialized consulting services including, among other services, assisting the Company in assessing and identifying viable sources of funding for equity private placements of up to $2,500,000 and developing a business strategy in Asia. Pursuant to the agreement the Company will pay ASP a finder’s fee of 8% in cash and 9% in stock of all funds received by the Company through ASP’s direct or indirect introduction. In addition, the Company issued 4,000,000 shares of its common stock effective on the signing of the agreement and is obligated to issue an additional 3,000,000 shares of its common stock upon the Company successfully securing $750,000 via ASP’s direct introductions. The term of the agreement is for twelve months, unless mutually extended. On November 11, 2014, the Company and ASP amended the agreement whereas (i) the number of shares issued to ASP was revised from 4,000,000 to 500,000; (ii) the finder’s fee was revised to 8.0% in cash and 4.5% in stock; and (iii) the term was extended to twelve months from the date of amendment, unless mutually extended. In connection with the agreement, in November 2014, the Company issued ASP 1,260,000 shares of common stock valued at $15,750 and paid $28,000 cash as commission on $350,000 in proceeds received by the Company from the sale of common stock.
Effective March 31, 2015, the Company entered into a license agreement with Breathe Ecig Corp. (“Breathe”) whereby the Company issued 10,869,565 shares of its common stock, valued at $100,000, to Breathe for certain licensing rights for a 24 month period, as defined in the agreement. Additionally, Breathe issued the Company 2,666,667 shares of its common stock, valued at $100,000 as a prepayment towards certain commercialization fees the Company will incur, as defined in the agreement. As Breathe is not currently engaged in any business that can help the Company, the entire fee has been written off by the Company as of March 31, 2015.
| F-28 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 10 – PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
Deferred income taxes are determined using the liability method for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and income tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are measured based on the tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences are included in the Company’s tax return. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on anticipated future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases.
Deferred tax assets consist of the following:
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | |||||||
| Net operating losses | 4,600,000 | $ | 2,200,000 | |||||
| Impairment of assets | 2,490,000 | 4,000,000 | ||||||
| Valuation allowance | (7,090,000 | ) | (6,200,000 | ) | ||||
| - | $ | - | ||||||
At March 31, 2015, the Company had a U.S. net operating loss carryforward in the approximate amount of $20.5 million available to offset future taxable income through 2035. The Company established valuation allowances equal to the full amount of the deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the utilization of the operating losses in future periods. The Company also has a Canadian carry forward loss which approximates $700,000 and is available to offset future taxable income through 2035. The valuation allowance increased by $890,000 and $1.4 million in the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
A reconciliation of the Company’s effective tax rate as a percentage of income before taxes and the federal statutory rate for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 is summarized as follows:
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| Federal statutory rate | (34.0 | )% | (34.0 | )% | ||||
| State income taxes, net of federal benefits | (3.3 | ) | (3.3 | ) | ||||
| Foreign tax | (0.3 | ) | (0.3 | ) | ||||
| Valuation allowance | 37.6 | 37.6 | ||||||
| 0 | % | 0 | % | |||||
NOTE 11 – INVESTMENTS - AVAILABLE FOR SALE SECURITIES
The Company’s investments in Green Innovations, Ltd and Breathe Ecig Corp. are included within Current Assets as they are expected to be realized in cash within one year. The investments are recorded at fair valve with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable taxes, in Other Comprehensive Income. The Company’s investment in Green Innovations, Ltd has a cost of $250,000, unrealized loss of $245,937 and a fair value of $4,063 at March 31, 2015. At March 31, 2015 and 2014, the unrealized loss was $58,437 and $187,500, respectively. The investment in Breathe Ecig Corp has been written off as of March 31, 2015 as there is no value in that company.
| F-29 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 12 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The following summarizes the company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2015 and 2014.
| March 31, 2015 | ||||||||||||||||
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Investment-available-for-sale security | $ | 4,063 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 4,063 | ||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
| Derivative liabilities | $ | - | $ | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | |||||||||
| March 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Investment-available-for-sale security | $ | 62,500 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 62,500 | ||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||
| Derivative liabilities | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 1,581,119 | $ | 1,581,119 | ||||||||
| Convertible notes | $ | $ | - | $ | 263,917 | $ | 263,917 | |||||||||
The estimated fair values of the Company’s derivative liabilities are as follows:
| Convertible | Derivative | |||||||||||
| Notes | Liability | Total | ||||||||||
| Liabilities Measured at Fair Value | ||||||||||||
| Beginning balance as of March 31, 2013 | $ | 106,425 | $ | — | $ | 106,425 | ||||||
| Revaluation (gain) loss | — | (1,409,877 | ) | (1,409,877 | ) | |||||||
| Issuances, net | 157,492 | 2,990,996 | 3,148,488 | |||||||||
| Balance as of March 31, 2014 | $ | 263,917 | $ | 1,581,119 | $ | 1,845,036 | ||||||
| Revaluation (gain) loss | — | 253,625 | 253,625 | |||||||||
| Issuances, net | (263,917 | ) | (1,744,744 | ) | (2,007,661 | ) | ||||||
| Ending balance as of March 31, 2015 | $ | — | $ | 90,000 | $ | 90,000 | ||||||
| F-30 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 13 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Common Stock Issuances
Subsequent to March 31, 2015, the Company issued additional shares of common stock as follows: (i) 29,188,403 shares in connection with the Company’s amended stock purchase agreement with Hanover I; (ii) 264,125,000 shares to consultants and board members; and (iii) 27,500,000 shares for a financing fee related to a convertible debenture issuance.
Escrow Agreement – April 10, 2015
On April 10, 2015, the Company received $24,970 cash pursuant to a settlement and assignment agreement between a director of the Company and a stockholder.
Typenex Settlement Agreement
On June 1, 2015, the Company and Typenex entered into a Settlement Agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby both the Company and Typenex have agreed to settle all claims and obligations under the January 16, 2015 settlement agreement (the “Prior Settlement Agreement”) (See Note 8) in consideration of the Company paying Typenex the amount of $230,000. Through the date of the Agreement Typenex earned approximately $169,000 in net sales proceeds from the sale of shares issued under the Prior Settlement Agreement.
Security Purchase Agreement – Accredited Investors
On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with various accredited investors for the sale of certain debentures with aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $133,000. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the investors were granted 13,300,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee. These shares have not yet been issued. Additionally, the Company was required to repay the amounts raised under the Purchase Agreement prior to December 1, 2015 except as described below. The Purchase Agreement provides the Company with the following prepayment options: (i) if prepaid prior to August 31, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 10% premium and (ii) if prepaid after August 31, 2015 but prior to December 1, 2015, the Company must pay each investor the amount invested plus a 20% premium. In the event the Company has not repaid the amounts as described above, on December 1, 2015 the Company has the option to convert all amounts raised under the Purchase Agreements into shares of common stock based on a 20% discount to the Company’s VWAP (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) for the three Trading Days (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) prior to December 1, 2015. The Company intends to use its best efforts to repay the amounts under the Purchase Agreement prior to August 31, 2015. Excluding the 13,300,000 commitment shares, in May 2016 the Company agreed to issue 33,900,000 shares of its common stock to settle all obligations under these Purchase Agreements.
Security Purchase Agreement – Union Capital, LLC
On June 1, 2015 the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Union Purchase Agreement”) with Union Capital, LLC (“Union”) for the purchase of a 7% Convertible Redeemable Note in the principal amount of $104,000 with a maturity date of June 1, 2016 (the “Union Note”). The Company received gross proceeds of $100,000 under the Union Note. The Company granted Union 12,500,000 shares of Company common stock for a commitment fee in consideration of the Union Note. Pursuant to the terms of the Union Note, at any time Union may convert any principal and interest due to it at a 20% discount to the lowest closing bid price of Company common stock for the five trading days prior to the conversion notice. Additionally, the discount will be adjusted on a ratchet basis in the event the Company offers a more favorable discount rate or look-back period to a third party during the term of the Union Note. Union will not be allowed to convert into shares of common stock that would result in it beneficially owning more than 9.99% of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock. The Company may prepay the amounts under the Union Note as follows: (i) if prepaid within ninety days, the Company must pay a 15% premium on all principal and interest outstanding and (ii) if prepaid after ninety days but before the one hundred and eighty-one day, the Company must pay a 30% premium on all principal and interest outstanding. The Company intends to use its best efforts to repay the Union Note within the first ninety days. The Company agreed to reserve 33,000,000 shares of its common stock to satisfy its obligations under the Union Note. This reserve will be increased to three times the number of share of common stock upon the approval of the Company’s stockholders of an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock. The Company agreed to call a special meeting solely for such purpose with fifteen days of the Union Note.
| F-31 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation and Filing of Schedule 14A
On July 9, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors (“BOD”) approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized common stock from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 shares and on July 17, 2015, the Company filed Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission calling for a special meeting of the stockholders to be held on July 27, 2015 to approve the amendment.
On July 27, 2015 the Company’s stockholders approved an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock of the Company from 1,000,000,000 to 2,500,000,000 at its Special Meeting of Stockholders held on July 27, 2015 at the Law Offices of Nixon Peabody LLP in Midtown Manhattan (the “Special Meeting”). At the Special Meeting, there were 480,655,929 shares of common stock represented either by proxy or in person of the 929,825,933 shares of common stock entitled to vote, constituting a quorum. Of those shares, there were 433,331,977, or 90.2%, that voted in favor of the proposal recommended by the Board of Directors. The remaining votes were cast either against or as abstentions regarding the proposal.
Resignation and Separation Agreement – Stella Sung
On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung submitted her resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD and as CEO and CFO of the Company. Dr. Sung received a payment of $41,500, which constituted a one-time separation payment of $20,000, accrued salary of $14,000 and expense reimbursements of $7,500.
Appointment of Seth Shaw and Ghalia Lahlou
Simultaneously with Dr. Sung’s resignation, the BOD appointed Seth M. Shaw as the Chairman of the BOD and the Company’s new CEO and Ghalia Lahlou as its new interim CFO. Compensation arrangements for Mr. Shaw have not been determined at this time. Ms. Lahlou will receive annual compensation of $96,000.
Resignation of Dr. Michael Brennan
On July 10, 2015, Michael Brennan, MD, PhD submitted his resignation as a member of the Company’s BOD.
Convertible Debenture Agreement – Group 10 Holdings LLC
On July 16, 2015, the Company entered into an $80,000 20% OID convertible debenture with Group 10 Holdings LLC.
PCAOB Censure of Cowan Gunteski & Co. LLC
On July 23, 2015, The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“Board” or “PCAOB”) censured the registered public accounting firm Cowan, Gunteski & Co., P.A. (“Cowan” or the “Firm”) and censured William Meyler, CPA (“Meyler”). The Board imposed these sanctions on the basis of its findings concerning the Firm’s and Meyler’s (collectively, “Respondents”): (1) violations of Section 10A(j) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”), Exchange Act Rule 10A-2, and PCAOB rules and standards. Cowan was the predecessor independent registered public accounting of the Company. As a result of this censure, the Company was forced to have their consolidated financial statements re-audited by a new independent registered public accounting firm.
Delisting from the OTCQB Exchange
On July 31, 2015, shares of the Company were delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to OTC Pink Limited Information Tier. On July 23, 2015 (via the PCAOB Public Censure), the Company became aware that the Company’s predecessor audit firm, Cowan, Gunteski & Co P.A. (the “Predecessor Audit Firm”) violated Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation SX, Rule 2-01 as well as certain standards with respect to the PCAOB independence rules with respect to the Predecessor Audit Firm’s audit report with respect to the Company year ended March 31, 2014 financial statements (the “Order”). Specifically the Predecessor Audit Firm failed to adhere to the SEC regulations with respect to the partner rotation rules.
| F-32 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
These rules require that the engagement partner as well as the quality concurring reviewer must be rotated off of the engagement for 5 years (cooling off period) after engaged in those roles for a period of 5 years. The Predecessor Audit Firm did not do this.
As a result of the non-compliance with the SEC regulations, on the morning of Thursday, July 30, 2015, the Company petitioned the OTC Markets in writing to extend the existing seven day OTCQB listing extension by a total of 60 additional days until close of business October 5, 2015. The OTC Markets panel denied the request and notified the Company it would be moved from the OTCQB to the OTC Pink Limited Information category effective at market open Friday July 31, 2015.
Disposal of Natural Wellness Business
On August 11, 2015 the Company formally divested (discontinued) its Natural Wellness Business. The business mainly consisted of a CBD infused topical lotion called TopiCanna as well as a line of Cannabis Complement products that were intended to compliment individuals who were consistently using medicinal cannabis related product. On August 11, 2015, the Company sold the balance of its inventory of TopiCanna and Cannabis Complement products for a one-time cash payment of $20,462. As a result of the disposal of this business, the Company reported a loss on disposal of $229,904, as reflected in the chart below:
| TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY | ||||||||
| BALANCE SHEET FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS | ||||||||
| March 31, 2015 | March 31, 2014 | |||||||
| Assets of discontinued operations | $ | 209,442 | - | |||||
| Liabilities of discontinued operations | - | - | ||||||
| TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY | ||||||||
| CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS | ||||||||
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||
| March 31, | ||||||||
| 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| Revenues | $ | 96,161 | $ | - | ||||
| Cost of goods sold | 41,802 | - | ||||||
| Gross profit | 54,359 | - | ||||||
| Operating expenses | ||||||||
| General and administrative | 178,002 | - | ||||||
| Impairment of notes receivable | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of license agreements | - | - | ||||||
| Impairment of patents | - | - | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization expense | 1,757 | - | ||||||
| Total operating expenses | 179,759 | - | ||||||
| Loss from discontinued operations | $ | (125,400 | ) | - | ||||
| F-33 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In addition, the pro-forma effect of the disposal on the consolidated financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, assuming the transaction occurred as of April 1, 2013 is reflected in the chart below:
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Loss on disposal of Natural Wellness (subsidiary)
| Cash | $ | 87,894 | ||
| Inventory, at cost | 90,987 | |||
| Prepaid Expenses | 21,219 | |||
| Property and equipment, net | 9,342 | |||
| Cash received for sale of inventory | 20,462 | |||
| Loss on disposal of continuing operations | $ | 229,904 |
Non-convertible Debt Financing – Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd.
On September 30, 2015, the Company entered into a debt facility of $180,000 in non-convertible debt financing from Singapore-based institutional investor Alternative Strategy Partners PTE Ltd. (“ASP”). The debt carries a fixed interest rate per annum of 11.50% (“the Designated Rate”) payable in full by December 23, 2015 (“the Maturity Date”). Both parties have discussed the possibility of amending terms, if necessary, under the assumption that both parties mutually agree to such amendment. The Company received cash from the note of $90,000 ($75,000 wired directly to the Company and $15,000 wired directly from ASP to compensate a consultant).
The balance of this $180,000 or the other $90,000 was wired directly to a Japanese based consumer product firm called Eishin, Inc.
The Company had entered into an agreement to acquire common shares equivalent to 20.1% of Eishin Co., Ltd. (“Eishin”), a high growth Japan-based company focusing on providing solutions to improve automobile combustion efficiency. “Eco-Spray”, Eishin’s key product made from 100% natural ingredients, is distributed in numerous Asian markets including China, Japan, Korea, India, UAE, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Philippines and Myanmar, and is currently being tested for expansion in North America. The Company has agreed to make an investment in Eishin for a total of $180,000, of which half was paid on October 1, 2015 and the remainder to be paid by the end of October 31, 2015.
The Company has not received any type of default notice with respect to this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Additionally, the Company has not received any shares in Eishin Co., Ltd. up to this point. The Company is currently in discussions with ASP to amend the original terms of this non-convertible debenture. Specifically to reduce the face value of this note from $180,000 to $90,000 and forgo receipt of any shares of Eishin Co., Ltd.
| F-34 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Lastly on October 9, 2015, ASP Managing Director (Yuhi Horiguchi) notified the Company via email that any and all warrants that had been previously mentioned in the $180,000 note were fully cancelled. So there are no warrants in existence, in accordance with this $180,000 non-convertible debenture. Nor have there been any defaults that ASP has notified the Company.
Lawsuit Filed Against Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA
On November 4, 2015, the Company filed a lawsuit against its predecessor audit firm Cowan Gunteski & Co. PA in Federal Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida). The case alleges, among other things, that Cowan Gunteski committed malpractice with respect to the audit of the Company’s FY 2014 financial statements (as illustrated in the PCAOB Public Censure of July 23, 2015) and then misrepresented to the Company with respect about its ability to re-issue an independent opinion for FY 2014 financial statements. On July 31, 2015, the Company was delisted from the OTCQB Exchange to the OTC Pink Limited Information Tier due to its inability to file its FY 2015 Form 10K. The lawsuit was expected by the Company and its counsel to take up to 18 months to complete, from the date it was filed (November 4, 2015).
The Company in its lawsuit seeks damages against Cowan Gunteski (and its malpractice insurance policy) exceeding $3,000,000. There is no guarantee that the Company will be successful in this lawsuit.
Subsequent to the filing of the lawsuit, the Company was notified that the lawsuit was temporarily suspended so that the Company and Cowan can attempt to mediate this case. On December 30, 2015, the Company was notified that Daniel F. Kolb was appointed as the mediator.
Mediation commenced on February 3, 2016. During these efforts, the Company had been offered settlement amounts, but none that have been satisfactory.
On March 22, 2016 the Company decided that its good faith efforts to settle its ongoing litigation with Cowan Gunteski & Co. P.A. have proven unsuccessful. Therefore, the Board of Directors of the Company unanimously agreed to proceed to trial. The case is expected to proceed in Federal District Court — Southern District Florida (Miami, Florida) with an expectation that the venue will be challenged. The Company is continuing to seek the assistance of independent experts, to help ascribe dollar amounts for certain damages suffered by the Company (“provable damages”). At this point in time, the Company has realized out of pocket cash losses and debts (inclusive of liquidated damages) that exceed $850,000. Additional potential damages include but are not limited to: inability to properly maintain Pilus Energy’s Intellectual Property (“Pilus IP”), the July 31, 2015 delisting of the Company shares from OTCQB to Pink Sheets, loss of market capitalization (“market cap”), loss of trading liquidity (“trading volume”), and loss of substantial business opportunities. In aggregate the Company intends to seek monetary award(s), during trial, in excess of $3,000,000. That figure is expected to continually increase as additional time lapses.
On May 10, 2016, the Company was notified of an Order Reopening Case, Scheduling Order for Pretrial Conference set for December 7, 2016 before Judge Robin L. Rosenberg, Trial set for January 23, 2017 in West Palm Beach Division, and a Calendar Call set for January 18, 2017.
Arbitration – Cherry Baekert LLP
On November 23, 2015, the Company had its arbitration date in Miami, Florida at the law office of Pollack, Pollack and Kogan against Cherry Baekert LLP (a consultant of the Company). This arbitration was concerning outstanding invoices of $31,280 that Cherry Baekert believed was owed from the Company pursuant to two separate engagement letters entered into in 2014. Prior to November 23, 2015, the Company had already paid $25,000 to Cherry Baekert pursuant to these above mentioned agreements.
The arbitrator, Lawrence Saichek, ruled against the Company on December 29, 2015 awarding Cherry Baekert the full $31,280 plus legal fee reimbursement, and court costs reimbursed. The total award was $47,568. Since that time, the number has grown to $51,387. On April 25, 2016, the Company made a $15,000 payment to Cherry Baekert towards this outstanding amount. Therefore, the remaining balance is now $36,387. In addition, Cherry Baekert, as a good faith measure, granted the Company until June 30, 2016 to pay the balance. There can be no guarantees that the Company will be able to meet that deadline.
| F-35 |
TAURIGA SCIENCES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Appointment of Mr. Keith M. Berman to the Board of Directors
On April 15, 2016, the Company appointed Mr. Keith M. Berman as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Berman will serve as an independent director and with this appointment, The Company’s Board of Directors is now comprised of five members, four of which the Company believes qualify as independent directors under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Currently, Mr. Berman serves as the Principal Executive Officer, Secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of Decision Diagnostics Corp. (OTC PINK: DECN).
Specifically, Mr. Berman will leverage his vast experience and knowledge in the life sciences space to assist the Company in its potential merger and acquisition activities. In addition, Mr. Berman has important experience in prosecuting major corporate litigation as he has been instrumental in Decision Diagnostics’ litigation against a major U.S. based pharmaceutical company.
Private Placement – April 18, 2016
On April 18, 2016, the Company completed an equity private placement for $105,500 to date comprised of accredited individual investors as well as one institutional investor. The terms of this private placement are as follows: $0.004 per share of common stock with a related three year warrant for 40% of each share of common stock purchased at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. The warrants require the investors to pay cash to exercise the warrants and do not allow for cashless exercise. All shares to be issued will be “restricted securities” as such term is defined by the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company collected $7,500 of this in March 2016, and the remaining funds in April 2016 at the time the shares and warrants were issued.
The proceeds from this private placement will be used for working capital purposes, most specifically to fund the Company’s ongoing litigation against Cowan Gunteski Co. P.A., and settle some outstanding obligations and establish new business opportunities for the Company.
NOTE 14 – RE-AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2014 have been re-audited by the Company’s new independent registered public accounting firm. As a result of the re-audit, there were adjustments made to the previously filed consolidated financial statements.
The adjustments were as follows:
| (a) | Impairment of patents (Pilus) in the amount of $1,791,460; | |
| (b) | Expense acquisition costs that were previously reflected as deferred acquisition costs of $395,823; and | |
| (c) | Reduction of 775,190 common shares that were in transit and were canceled at par value of $8 (common stock and additional paid in capital). |
The net effect of the adjustments was an increase to both the net loss and accumulated deficit of $2,187,283. The adjustments did not impact the loss per share.
| F-36 |
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the year ended March 31, 2015 covered by this Form 10-K. Based upon such evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as required under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management of the Company is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements and related financial information appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The consolidated financial statements and notes have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The management of the Company is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. A company’s internal control over financial reporting is defined as 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. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
| ● | Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; | |
| ● | 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 issuer are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and | |
| ● | 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. |
Management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial officer, does not expect that the Company’s disclosure controls and internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. Because of its inherent limitations, a system of internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Further, over time, control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
| 36 |
With the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, our management evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2015 based upon the framework in Internal Control –Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on that evaluation, our management has concluded that, as of March 31, 2015, the Company had material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting and was deemed to be not effective. Specifically, management identified the following material weaknesses at March 31, 2015:
| 1. | Lack of oversight by independent directors in the establishment and monitoring of required internal controls and procedures; | |
| 2. | Lack of functioning audit committee, resulting in ineffective oversight in the establishment and monitoring of required internal controls and procedures; | |
| 3. | Insufficient personnel resources within the accounting function to segregate the duties over financial transaction processing and reporting and to allow for proper monitoring controls over accounting; | |
| 4. | Insufficient written policies and procedures over accounting transaction processing and period end financial disclosure and reporting processes. |
To remediate our internal control weaknesses, management intends to implement the following measures:
| ● | The Company will add sufficient number of independent directors to the board and appoint an audit committee. | |
| ● | The Company will add sufficient knowledgeable accounting personnel to properly segregate duties and to effect a timely, accurate preparation of the financial statements. | |
| ● | Upon the hiring of additional accounting personnel, the Company will develop and maintain adequate written accounting policies and procedures. |
The additional hiring is contingent upon the Company’s efforts to obtain additional funding through equity or debt for its continued operational activities and corporate expenses. Management expects to secure funds in the coming fiscal year but provides no assurances that it will be able to do so.
We understand that remediation of material weaknesses and deficiencies in internal controls are a continuing work in progress due to the issuance of new standards and promulgations. However, remediation of any known deficiency is among our highest priorities. Our management will periodically assess the progress and sufficiency of our ongoing initiatives and make adjustments as and when necessary.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report. On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Included in the Act is a provision that permanently exempts smaller public companies that qualify as either a Non-Accelerated Filer or Smaller Reporting Company from the auditor attestation requirement of Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
In August 2012, the Company appointed Seth M. Shaw as chief executive officer and chairman. Mr. Shaw has more than ten years’ experience in the business and financial profession. On February 27, 2015, Mr. Shaw resigned as our chief executive officer and was replaced by Dr. Stella M. Sung. On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung resigned as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board of Directors. On July 10, 2015, Mr. Shaw was appointed as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and as the Chairman of the Board of Directors.
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In September 2012, the Company appointed Bruce Harmon as chief financial officer. Mr. Harmon has more than thirty years’ experience as a financial professional serving as chief financial officer of several publicly registered entities. On August 31, 2014, Mr. Harmon resigned as our chief financial officer and was replaced by Mr. Shaw. Mr. Shaw served as our chief financial officer until February 27, 2015 when he was replaced by Dr. Sung. On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung resigned as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. On July 10, 2015, Ms. Lahlou was appointed as the Company’s Interim Chief Financial Officer.
Except as set forth above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls
The Company’s management, specifically, the CEO and CFO, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. Further, the design of the control system must reflect that there are resource constraints and that the benefits must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of controls effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures.
None.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
The following table sets forth information with respect to persons who are serving as directors and officers of the Company. Each director holds office until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until his successor has been elected and qualified.
| Name | Age | Position | ||
| Seth M. Shaw | 36 | Chief Executive Officer and Director | ||
| Ghalia Lahlou | 29 | Chief Financial Officer | ||
| Dr. David L. Wolitzky | 79 | Director | ||
| Hingge Hsu | 58 | Director | ||
| Thomas J. Graham | 67 | Director | ||
| Keith Berman | 62 | Director |
Biographies of Directors and Officers
Seth M. Shaw has served as our chief executive officer and chairman of the Board since July 9, 2015. Mr. Shaw started his career at American International Group (AIG) Global Investment Group, and furthered his growth capital experience working at a prestigious Manhattan based hedge fund (Harvest Capital Management). In 2005, he founded Novastar Resources Ltd, a natural resources exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of mineral properties containing the element thorium. During this period, Mr. Shaw secured more than $17 million in financing from top tier institutional investors and was an integral stakeholder in the completion of the merger between Novastar Resources and Thorium Power. During this period, he held the position of Director of Strategic Planning until mid-2007. Subsequently, the company changed its name to Lightbridge Inc. and currently trades on the NASDAQ (NASDAQ: LTBR).
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Following the merger, Mr. Shaw has assisted several other companies in securing value added capital from institutional investors as well as providing management consulting. Among those, Mr. Shaw was instrumental in securing $12,000,000 from Tudor Investment Corp. for NASDAQ listed flat panel display developer Uni-Pixel Inc. (NASDAQ: UNXL). In addition, Mr. Shaw served as the founding CFO of Los Angeles based Biotech firm Physician Therapeutics LLC (“PTL”) in 2004. Subsequently PTL merged with Targeted Medical Pharma (“TMP”) (OTCQB: TRGM). Mr. Shaw had previously served as the CEO of the Company from August 22, 2012 through February 26, 2014. Throughout his tenure with the Company, Mr. Shaw has been instrumental in completing numerous private placements and most recently retired the entirety of the Company’s convertible debt in October 2014. Mr. Shaw also serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Breathe eCig Corp. (OTCQB: BVAP).
Mr. Shaw graduated from Cornell University in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in Policy Analysis Management and a concentration in Econometrics.
Ms. Ghalia Lahlou has served as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer since July 10, 2015. Ms. Lahlou joined the Company in May 2011 as the Operations Manager based in the Montreal office. She previously worked in a number of operational roles ranging from the energy sector to healthcare. Ms. Lahlou was pivotal in interfacing and managing institutional and high net worth investors during her tenure with two early stage public companies. Prior to this, she served the role of assistant project manager at one of the largest steel manufacturing companies in North Africa. During her time there, she played a key role in the development of new product lines catering to the construction and building sector. At the Company, her role involves maintaining relationships with investors, managing daily operations and overseeing company communications with the investor community and the regulatory authorities in U.S and Canada.
Ms. Lahlou graduated from McGill University, Montreal, Canada with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to that, she completed her studies in Health Sciences at Marianopolis College, Montreal.
Dr. David L. Wolitzky has served as our director since March 2013. Dr. Wolitzky received his BA from The City College of New York (1957) and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rochester (1961). He is also a graduate of the New York Psychoanalytic Institute (1972). Since 1974 Dr. Wolitzky has been a tenured faculty member in the Department of Psychology, New York University. His many years there of teaching, research, supervisory, and administrative experience included serving as the Director of the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, the N.Y.U Psychology Clinic, and as a Co-Director of the N.Y.U. Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis and as a supervisor of candidates in training. His other professional activities include publication of numerous articles and book chapters, edited books, forensic evaluation in child custody cases, psychological assessments of individuals being considered for high-level executive positions in industry, extensive experience as a book editor, and the practice of psychotherapy. He also has served on the New State Board of Psychology, Office of Professional Discipline.
Dr. Hingge Hsu has served as our director since January 2015. Dr. Hingge Hsu was a Partner at Fidelity Biosciences from 2009 until 2014 and was on the core healthcare investment team for Fidelity Growth Partners Asia. He was previously a Managing Director at Lehman Brothers in their Private Equity Group from 2001 until 2006, responsible for their principal investment activities in the private and public sectors of the healthcare industry. Dr. Hsu has structured and led numerous transactions in the life science sector, and he has been instrumental in building and growing his portfolio companies. Prior to his positions at Fidelity and Lehman, Dr. Hsu was a Partner at Schroder Ventures Life Sciences from 1998 to 2001 and directed their U.S. investment activities in the life sciences and therapeutics sectors. He received an MD degree from Yale University School of Medicine and was trained in internal medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Dr. Hsu also received an MBA degree from Harvard Business School.
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Mr. Thomas J. Graham has served as our director since August 2015. Mr. Graham is currently self-employed and leverages his industry knowledge to help companies create effective strategies to successfully penetrate the retail market place. From 2000 to 2005, Mr. Graham served as Director of Operations for Sears and Roebuck & Co., a national retailer with numerous stores nationwide. He oversaw direct operations for all departments, including their managers and associates. In addition, he was accountable for all sales, labor and operation standards as set by Sears Corporate. From 1993 to 2000, Mr. Graham from 1993 to 2000 served as a results oriented Marketing and Sales Director for a major Michigan retail supermarket called Goff Food Stores, with sales in excess of $100,000,000.00 annually. He coordinated and oversaw all print and visual advertising including newspaper, radio and television. Mr. Graham worked with local and national vendors to promote and increase sales and customer flow. In addition he was responsible for all product placement and developed category management standards for all departments and set merchandising plans and ensured they were followed by all store level personal.
Mr. Graham is also is U.S. Military Veteran, serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971. He was honorably discharged in 1971 with the rank of Sergeant First Class, with twelve months combat service in Vietnam from 1970-1971.
Mr. Keith M. Berman has served as our director since April 2016. Mr. Berman has served as the Principal Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Director of Decision Diagnostics Corp. (OTC: DECN) since January of 2003. For over the past 20 years, Mr. Berman has been involved in the development of healthcare software including Intranet and Internet systems. From July 1999 to present, Mr. Berman has held the position of President, founder and director of Caredecision.net, Inc. a private company engaged in e-health technology development. From March 2001 through June 2002 Mr. Berman also held the Position of President and Director or Medicius, Inc. From January 1996 to June 1999 Mr. Berman was the President and founder of Cymedix, the operating division of the former Ramp Corp. (RCO). Cymedix was a pioneer company in what was then known as i-health (Internet healthcare) now the e-health industry. Mr. Berman was and is the Program Manager and Quality Assurance Manager of the Genstrip 50 and GenUltimate! medical devices. Mr. Berman’s professional background provides the Company with business management experience and an in depth knowledge of our industry. Mr. Berman received a BA in 1975 and an MBA in 1977 from Indiana University. Additionally Keith M. Berman brings more than 35 years’ experience in the healthcare field, having worked with such companies as Technicon Corporation and Boehringer-Mannheim Corporation. Mr. Berman also was the founder of Cymedix, the operating division of the former Ramp Corp. (formerly Medix Resources) (AMEX: RCO).
Mr. Berman received a BA in 1975 and an MBA in 1977 from Indiana University.
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships among any of our directors and executive officers.
Our directors are appointed by the Board of Directors, and serve until their successors are elected and qualified, or their earlier resignation or removal. Officers are appointed by the board of directors and serve at the discretion of the board of directors or until their earlier resignation or removal. Any action required can be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the corporation which may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if consent of consents in writing setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of the outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and shall be delivered to the corporation by delivery to its registered office, its principle place of business, or an officer or agent of the corporation having custody of the book in which the proceedings of meetings are recorded.
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Florida Corporation Law allows for the indemnification of officers, directors, and any corporate agents in terms sufficiently broad to indemnify such persons under certain circumstances for liabilities, including reimbursement for expenses, incurred arising under the 1933 Act. The Bylaws of the Company provide that the Company will indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent authorized or permitted by law and such right to indemnification will continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director or officer of the Company and will inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, executors and Consultants; provided, however, that, except for proceedings to enforce rights to indemnification, the Company will not be obligated to indemnify any director or officer in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such person unless such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board of Directors. The right to indemnification conferred will include the right to be paid by the Company the expenses (including attorney’s fees) incurred in defending any such proceeding in advance of its final disposition.
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The Company may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the Board of Directors, provide rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses to employees and agents of the Company similar to those conferred to directors and officers of the Company. The rights to indemnification and to the advancement of expenses are subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act to the extent applicable.
Furthermore, the Company may maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself and any director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or another company against any expense, liability or loss, whether or not the Company would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the Florida General Corporation Law.
Director Compensation
During the fiscal years ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, our independent directors received stock compensation as set forth in the table below.
Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance
Green Innovations has directors’ and officers’ liability insurance insuring our directors and officers against liability for acts or omissions in their capacities as directors or officers.
Code of Ethics
We intend to adopt a code of ethics that applies to our officers, directors and employees, including our principal executive officer and principal accounting officer, but have not done so to date due to our relatively small size. We intend to adopt a written code of ethics in the near future.
Board Committees
The Company does not have any committees.
We expect our board of directors, in the future, to appoint a nominating committee and any other applicable committee, as applicable, and to adopt charters relative to each such committee. We intend to appoint such persons to committees of the board of directors as are expected to be required to meet the corporate governance requirements imposed by a national securities exchange, although we are not required to comply with such requirements until we elect to seek a listing on a national securities exchange.
Advisory Board
Business Advisory Board
The Company established its Business Advisory Board in 2013. Currently, the Business Advisory Board has four members.
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Woodrow H. Levin has served on our Business Advisory Board since February, 2014. Mr. Levin was the founder and CEO of BringIt which was acquired by International Game Technology (NYSE:IGT) in the year 2012. An energetic and charismatic leader, he makes strategic decisions for the company while guiding day-to-day operations, working with investors, and developing strategic and lasting partnerships that benefit BringIt. Prior to founding BringIt, Mr. Levin was Managing Partner at Riverbank Capital Management, a successful equity options trading firm he started, and helped to grow with offices in New York and Chicago. In 2001, he founded InStadium, an advertising company that partnered with NFL and MLB stadiums to provide digital advertising, product sampling, stadium signage, and innovative restroom advertising. Mr. Levin was President of InStadium for five years, during which he established the company’s mission of expanding in-venue advertising and promotional opportunities for large to mid-sized companies through cost-efficient and high impact programs. His efforts ultimately resulted in securing partnerships with 25 MLB and 15 NFL stadiums throughout the top 20 advertising markets in the US. His competitive fire was firmly established by his school career as a competitive athlete. He played NCAA Division I hockey at Wisconsin, an experience that taught him that discipline and hard work can transform a burning desire for success into tangible results. Mr. Levin attended Chicago-Kent School of Law and is admitted to practice in IL. He holds a BA in Business from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Mr. Levin resides in San Francisco and was previously living in Chicago where he is involved with multiple community and charitable organizations including the Jewish United Fund, Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation and most recently was on the executive committee of The Chicago Green Tie Ball.
General Ronald R. Fogleman has served on our Business Advisory Board since February, 2014. General Fogleman is a highly decorated combat veteran who retired from the United States Air Force (“U.S. Air Force” or “USAF”) after 34 years active commissioned service. On his final tour of duty he served as the 15th Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (“JCS”) during the administration of President Clinton. Prior to that assignment he was Commander in Chief of the United States Transportation Command (“CINCTRANS”). As Chief of Staff, he served as the senior uniformed officer responsible for the organization, training and equipage of 750,000 active duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the United States and Overseas. As a member of the JCS, he served as a military advisor to the Secretary of Defense, the National Security Council and the President. Since retiring from the U.S. Air Force, General Fogleman has served on the Defense Policy Board, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (“NASA”) Advisory Council, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Advisory Board, chaired an Air Force Laboratory study on directed energy weapons, chaired a National Resource Committee on Aeronautics Research and Technology for Vision 2050: An integrated Transportation System, served on the NASA Mars Program Independent Assessment Team, the congressionally directed Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization, the NASA Shuttle Return to Flight Task Group and the Independent Assessment Panel to examine the Management and Organization of National Security Space Assets. General Fogleman has served on and chaired several public and private company boards. He is currently the Chairman of the Board of Alliant Techsystems Inc. (NYSE: ATK), the Lead Director on the Board of Directors for AAR Corp. (NYSE: AIR), and serves on the boards of AGC Composites and Aerostructures, First National Bank of Durango, MITRE Corporation, Tactical Air Support, Inc. and Thayles-Raytheon Systems. he has served as the chair of Audit and Governance Committees throughout his career in the public and private sectors. He devotes considerable time to national security, governance of public companies and community affairs. He is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, Council on Foreign Relations, Falcon Foundation, Airlift Tanker Association, Fort Lewis College Foundation, and the Air Force Association. He lectures on leadership, international affairs and military issues and has published numerous articles on air and space operations.
Bruno Vanderschelden has served as a business advisory board member since April 2012. Mr. Vanderschelden has over 15 years of experience in the various fields of asset management and operations in a multi-cultural and multi-lingual environment with longstanding relationships with key industry decision makers, venture investors, and thought leaders, with access to a broad and powerful network of influencers. He has also served as an independent director of various Management Companies, has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategic plans and has implemented risk management and corporate governance programs for public companies. Mr. Vanderschelden has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from ICHEC Brussels, Belgium and in European Studies from Université Catholique de Louvain Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.
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Frank P. Orlowski has served on our Business Advisory Board since April 2016. Mr. Orlowski serves as Senior Director Finance, emerging markets and transition manufacturing sites at a global pharmaceutical company . Mr. Orlowski is responsible for managing all aspects of Emerging Markets Manufacturing Supply Finance. In this global role he develops operational strategies for internal and external pharmaceutical supply chain and sourcing throughout Asia, Africa/Middle East and South America. As a global leader he is highly effective working in a multi-cultural, global organization partnering with senior government officials and business leaders, both inside and outside the Pharma Company and the pharmaceutical industry. He manages a large team across the globe and is responsible for a yearly operating budget of over $900 million. The specific countries which he supports from a manufacturing and business development standpoint include Argentina, Brazil, China (all provinces), Egypt, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Morocco, Russia, Singapore, Turkey, Tunisia, Thailand and Venezuela. He has over 20 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry in positions of increased responsibility in strategy, finance and operations. Prior to his work in the pharmaceutical industry, he worked at Accenture on various successful strategic consulting engagements in manufacturing. He was responsible for the global integration of several major acquisitions. He was Project Lead for the global rollout of several widely used information systems. He sits on the leadership team of several innovating manufacturing and drug development teams within the Pharma Company alongside senior Company scientists. He sits on the leadership team of several innovating manufacturing and drug development teams within the Pharma Company alongside senior Company scientists. This includes evaluating external business development and licensing opportunities. In 2015, Mr. Orlowski was appointed to the Board of the American Cancer Society and serves on the Executive Board of the National Corporate Theatre Forward. He completed two New York City Marathons and over 20 half marathons. Mr. Orlowski earned a BS in accounting from Providence College and an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business.
Medical Advisory Board
The Company established its Medical Advisory Board in 2013. Currently, the Medical Advisory Board has one member.
Dr. Jason Heikenfeld has served on our Medical Advisory Board since October 2013. Mr. Heikenfeld is an internationally-known expert in electrofluidics and flex-electronics, with work spanning displays, lab-on-chip, and now wearable sensors. Dr. Heikenfeld is a recipient of NSF CAREER, and AFOSR and Sigma Xi Young-Investigator awards. He is currently a Prof. of Electrical Engineering at the University of Cincinnati and also currently working with his second start-up company in color-video electronic paper. Dr. Heikenfeld is a Senior member of the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a Senior member of the Society for Information Display, and a member of SPIE. Jason Heikenfeld received his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Cincinnati in 1998 and 2001, respectively. During 2001-2005 Dr. Heikenfeld co-founded and served as principal scientist at Extreme Photonix Corp. In 2005 he returned to the University of Cincinnati as a Professor in the Dept. of Electrical & Computer Engineering. In 2005, Dr. Heikenfeld joined the University of Cincinnati (“UC”) as an Assistant Professor, and quickly propelled UC into a position of international leadership in electrofluidic technology. Dr. Heikenfeld’s university laboratory, The Novel Devices Laboratory, is currently engaged in electrofluidic device research spanning electronic paper and biomedical applications. Since 2006, he has secured more than $12,000,000 in funded research, including a prestigious NSF CAREER award and a AFOSR Young Investigator Award (one of only 21 nationally in 2006, across all sciences). He has greater than 150 publications and his inventions have resulted in over 10 granted patents. Dr. Heikenfeld has now launched his second company, Gamma Dynamics, which is pursuing commercialization of color e-Readers that look as good as conventional printed media. Dr. Heikenfeld is a Senior member of the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a Senior member of the Society for Information Display, and a member of SPIE. In addition to his scholarly work, Dr. Heikenfeld is an award winning educator at UC and has lead the creation of programs and coursework at the University of Cincinnati that foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and an understanding of the profound change that technology can have on society.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The table below sets forth, for our last two fiscal years, the compensation earned by our named executive officers.
| Name and Principal Position | Year | Salary | Deferred Compensation | Bonus | Stock Awards | Option/ Warrant Awards | All Other Compensation | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dr. Stella M. Sung (1) | 2015 | $ | 162,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 119,000 | $ | - | $ | 8,065 | $ | 289,065 | |||||||||||||||
| Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer | 2014 | $ | 80,175 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 215,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 295,175 | |||||||||||||||
| Seth M. Shaw (2) | 2015 | $ | 117,750 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 219,800 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 337,550 | |||||||||||||||
| Former Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer | 2014 | $ | 116,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 6,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 122,000 | |||||||||||||||
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(1) On February 27, 2014, Mr. Shaw resigned as our chief executive officer and chief financial officer and was replaced by Dr. Stella M. Sung in both positions. On July 9, 2015, Dr. Sung resigned as our chief executive officer and chief financial officer and was replaced by Mr. Shaw as our chief executive officer.
(2) On February 27, 2014, Mr. Shaw resigned as our chief executive officer and chief financial officer but was reappointed as our chief executive officer on July 9, 2015.
The general policy of the Board of Directors is that compensation for independent Directors should be a nominal cash fee plus equity-based compensation. We do not pay employee Directors for Board service in addition to their regular employee compensation. The Board of Directors have the primary responsibility for considering and determining the amount of Director compensation.
The following table shows amounts earned by each Director in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2015.
| Change in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pension | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fees | Value and | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earned | Non-Equity | Nonqualified | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| or Paid | Incentive | Deferred | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| in | Stock | Warrant | Plan | Compensation | All Other | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Director | Cash | Awards | Awards | Compensation | Earnings | Compensation | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Dr. David L. Wolitzky | $ | 24,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 24,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Hingge Hsu. | $ | - | $ | 10,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 10,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Michael Wolff(1) | $ | 26,860 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 26,869 | ||||||||||||||
| Michael J. Brennan(2) | $ | - | $ | 20,000 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 20,000 | ||||||||||||||
(1) On January 21, 2015, Mr. Wolff resigned as a member of the Board of Directors.
(2) On July 10, 2015, Dr. Brennan resigned as a member of the Board of Directors.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
The following table sets forth certain information as of May 17, 2016 regarding the beneficial ownership of our common stock by (i) each person or entity who, to our knowledge, beneficially owns more than 5% of our common stock; (ii) each executive officer and named officer; (iii) each director; and (iv) all of our officers and directors as a group. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to the following table, each of the stockholders named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of our common stock beneficially owned. Except as otherwise indicated, the address of each of the stockholders listed below is: c/o 39 Old Ridgebury Road, Danbury, Connecticut 06180.
| Name | Number
of Shares Beneficially Owned(1) | Percentage
of Outstanding Common Stock(1) | ||||||
| Non-employee Directors: | ||||||||
| Hingge Hsu, M.D., M.B.A. | 9,400,000 | * | ||||||
| David L. Wolitzky | 16,361,700 | 1.34 | % | |||||
| Thomas J. Graham | 10,000,000 | * | ||||||
| Keith M. Berman | 1,000,000 | * | ||||||
| Named Executive Officers: | ||||||||
| Seth M. Shaw, Chief Executive Officer and Director | 41,390,000 | 3.39 | % | |||||
| Ghalia Lahlou, Chief Financial Officer | 31,125,000 | 2.55 | % | |||||
| All directors and named executive officers as a group (5 persons) | 78,151,700 | 6.41 | % | |||||
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* Denotes less than 1%.
(1) Applicable percentage of ownership is based on 1,219,820,933 total shares comprised of our common stock as of May 17, 2016. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and means voting or investment power with respect to securities. Shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options exercisable currently or within 60 days of May 17, 2016 are deemed outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding such option for purposes of computing such person’s percentage ownership, but are not deemed outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Shares of our preferred stock are deemed outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding such shares for purposes of computing such person’s percentage ownership.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
None.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.
The following table sets forth the fees billed by our principal independent accountants, KBL, LLP for 2014 and 2015, for the categories of services indicated.
| Years Ended March 31, | ||||||||
| Category | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||
| Audit Fees – Cowan, Gunteski & Co | $ | 146,565 | ||||||
| KBL, LLP | ||||||||
| Audit Related Fees | $ | 40,000 | $ | 25,000 | ||||
| Tax Fees | - | - | ||||||
| All Other Fees | - | - | ||||||
| Total | $ | 40,000 | $ | 171,565 | * | |||
*Our previous audit firm billed us $146,565 for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2014. However, as noted above, we were required to re-audit the financial statements for such period.
Audit fees. Consists of fees billed for the audit of our annual financial statements and review of our interim financial information and services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with year-end and quarter-end statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.
Audit-related fees. Consists of fees billed for services relating to review of other regulatory filings including registration statements, periodic reports and audit related consulting.
Tax fees. Consists of professional services rendered by our principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
Other fees. Other services provided by our accountants.
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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
Exhibits
See the Exhibit Index following the signature page of this Registration Statement, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Description | |
| 31.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Required by Rule 13a-14(1) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| 31.2 | Certification of Principal Accounting Officer of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Required by Rule 13a-14(1) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| 32.1 | Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Section 1350 Of 18 U.S.C. 63 | |
| 32.2 | Certification of Principal Accounting Officer of Tauriga Sciences, Inc. Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Section 1350 Of 18 U.S.C. 63 | |
| 101.INS | XBRL Instance Document | |
| 101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | |
| 101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | |
| 101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | |
| 101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | |
| 101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
Financial Statement Schedules
None
| 46 |
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| /s/ Seth M. Shaw | May 20, 2016 | |
| Seth M. Shaw, Principal Executive Officer | Date | |
| /s/ Ghalia Lahlou | May 20, 2016 | |
| Ghalia Lahlou, Principal Accounting Officer | Date |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
| /s/ Seth M. Shaw | May 20, 106 | |
| Seth M. Shaw, Director | Date | |
| /s/ Dr. David L. Wolitzky | May 20, 2016 | |
| Dr. David L. Wolitzky, Director | Date | |
/s/ Thomas J. Graham |
May 20, 2016 | |
| Thomas J. Graham, Director | Date |
| 47 |