UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
☒ ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2018
☐ TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 000-54530
GOPHER PROTOCOL INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| Nevada | 27-0603137 | |
| State or other jurisdiction of | I.R.S. Employer Identification Number | |
| incorporation or organization |
2500 Broadway, Suite F-125, Santa Monica, CA 90404
(Address of principal executive offices)
Issuer’s telephone number: 424 238-4589
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 per share
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ 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 ☐ 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 of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.) Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will be contained, to the best of the 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. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer, large accelerated filer or smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
| Large accelerated filer ☐ | Accelerated filer ☐ | Non-accelerated filer ☐ | Smaller Reporting Company ☒ |
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) Yes ☐ No ☒
As of June 30, 2018, the market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates was approximately $73,742,824, which is computed based upon the closing price on that date of the Common Stock of the registrant on the OTCQB maintained by OTC Markets Group Inc. of $1.70. 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 March 27, 2019, 207,409,616 shares of common stock, $.00001 par value per share, of the registrant were outstanding.
Documents incorporated by reference: None
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FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
INDEX
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STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
In this annual report, references to “Gopher” ” “GOPH” “the Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Gopher Protocol, Inc.
Except for the historical information contained herein, some of the statements in this report contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements are found in the sections entitled “Business,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.” They include statements concerning: our business strategy; expectations of market and customer response; liquidity and capital expenditures; future sources of revenues; expansion of our proposed product line; and trends in industry activity generally. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “could,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “goal,” or “continue” or similar terminology. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, but not limited to, the risks outlined under “Risk Factors,” that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, assumptions that could cause actual results to vary materially from future results include, but are not limited to our ability to successfully develop and market our products to customers; our ability to generate customer demand for our products in our target markets; the development of our target markets and market opportunities; our ability to manufacture suitable products at a competitive cost; market pricing for our products and for competing products; the extent of increasing competition; technological developments in our target markets and the development of alternate, competing technologies in them; and sales of shares by existing shareholders. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Unless we are required to do so under U.S. federal securities laws or other applicable laws, we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements.
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ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”, “Gopher”, “Gopher Protocol” or “GOPH”) was incorporated on July 22, 2009 under the laws of the State of Nevada. Gopher is an emerging growth company that is creating and patenting innovative mobile microchip (ICs) and software technologies based on the GopherInsight ™ technology platform. The Company also offers prepaid cellular phone minutes for both domestic and international carriers. In addition, the Company offers cellular activation (activating SIM cards with wireless carriers) to create additional users (consumers) on those networks and provides check processing, verification and recovery solutions for small to medium sized businesses. The Company derived revenues from (i) the provision of IT services to Guardian Patch LLC, a related party (“Guardian LLC”); (ii) from the operations of the assets it acquired in the third quarter of 2017 and the first and second quarters of 2018 that include the sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation and (iii) from the licensing of its technology.
GopherInsight™ is a patented (with additional patents pending), real time, heuristic (self-learning/artificial intelligence-based) global mesh network and asset tracking IoT technology. GopherInsight ™ chip and software technologies, if successfully fully developed, are designed to be installed in mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.), autonomous vehicles, robots, drones, consumer products, as well as other fixed and mobile stand-alone products. It is intended that GopherInsight ™ software applications will work in conjunction with GopherInsight ™ microchips across mobile operating systems, providing computing power, advanced database management/sharing functionalities and more. The technology under development consists of a smart microchip, mobile application software and supporting software. The system contemplates the creation of a global mesh network.
The Company is developing a state-of-the-art platform called GopherInsight™ that is targeted to be launched first as a microchip with firmware, then as software, in mobile and fixed devices and locations (including smartphones, tablets, laptops, servers, remote POS points, etc.). GopherInsight will provide a series of software modules including Gopher’s own gNET proprietary mesh network protocol, gEYE multi-level security protocol, and all will be managed by Gopher’s Avant! AI Artificial Intelligence.
GopherInsight’s microchip design and software are primarily intended to be licensed on a private-label basis to strategic technology partners, or Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), that manufacture solutions such as telecommunication systems and data networks, mobile devices, asset tracking systems, and other IoT solutions that relay data and are connected to a network.
The Company intends where possible to market these solutions to OEMs and charge a licensing fee to generate revenue. The Company already has one agreement with an OEM, GBT (Genesis Blockchain Technologies), which is a licensing agreement providing for an initial payment of $5,000,000 and an ongoing revenue share royalty of 2% of revenue.
The Company is targeting three growing markets: prepaid services, asset-tracking IoT, and wireless mesh networks.
Prepaid services
On September 1, 2017, the Company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with a third party, RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, a Georgia corporation. The Company entered into this Asset Purchase Agreement to acquire terminals in approximately 9,400 locations by which, and at which, the Company planned to deploy its IOT/asset tracking technology. The operations consist primarily of the sale of phones and phone card products, including PINS for cell minutes, SIM cards for cell minutes, as well as gift cards and prepaid long distance cards. The Company incorporated a wholly-owned subsidiary, UGopherServices Corp. (“UGopherServices”), to operate the acquired assets. The assets acquired in the purchase consist of (1) racks that contain 9-12 items per rack that are displayed in retail locations, mainly convenience stores; and (2) payment terminals at those same points of sale.
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On March 16, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement dated March 1, 2018 with ECS Prepaid, LLC (“ECS”), a Missouri limited liability company, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from ECS, including, but not limited to, the processing prepaid platform, servers, POS terminals, customer list, a processing software program and goodwill, in consideration of $1,100,000 of which $100,000 was paid on the Closing Date and the balance is to be paid pursuant to a secured promissory note in the amount of $1,000,000. In addition, the Company issued 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company and warrants to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock that are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $1.85 per share. The note is secured by the assets acquired by the Company from ECS and the Company is required to make ten equal principal payments of $100,000 commencing on April 15, 2018. The Company may prepay the note at any time without penalty.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with Electronic Check Services, Inc. (“Electronic Check”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from Electronic Check, including, but not limited to, assets associated with software that validates written check authenticity. The purchase price was $75,000 in cash, and the Company issued 250,000 shares of common stock of the Company and warrants to purchase 250,000 shares of common stock that are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $2.70 per share.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with Central State Legal Services, Inc. (“CSLS”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from CSLS, including, but not limited to, assets associated with a system to recover funds from returned checks, for $25,000 in cash.
The Company entered into these asset purchase agreements to acquire the software needed to process transactions for its prepaid business, and to acquire additional terminal locations by which the Company will deploy its technology. On a combined basis, there are approximately 9,400 points of sale as a result of acquiring certain assets from both RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC and ECS.
On or around November 10, 2017, UGopherServices experienced a suspension of operations on the terminals that the Company acquired in its acquisition on September 1, 2017 from RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC. Management of the Company believes that this shutdown came as a result of the decision of Paypal Holdings Inc. (“Paypal”) decision to suspend operations of TIO Networks (“TIO”), and appears to have affected all of TIO’s customers. TIO was acquired by Paypal in or around July 2017. Prior to the suspension, the Company received no notice from TIO, or from RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC, which sold the assets to UGopherServices, that the suspension would be taking place. Although the Company worked diligently to contain the fallout from the suspension of operations by TIO, the vast majority of the customers that were acquired as part of the transaction defected as a result. The subsequent acquisition of ECS was done partly to stem the customer defections, as many of the customers of UgopherServices sought the services of ECS. In doing so, the Company got many, though not all, of the customers back.
The Company is currently in litigation with RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, its executives and other third parties, and wrote off a substantial portion of its investment in UgopherServices from September 1, 2017. The Company’s position is that it was defrauded by the Seller and certain third parties due to the lack of disclosure of TIO’s decision to suspend operations.
Prepaid services products
The racks located at the points of sale contain the following items:
| ● | New and refurbished cellular handsets and SIM cards; |
| ● | Prepaid gift cards; |
| ● | Prepaid long distance cards; and, |
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| ● | Prepaid wireless cards, for both foreign and domestic calls. |
When any of these items are brought to the counter, the customer’s method of payment is swiped into a payment terminal machine. The Company records the revenue from the purchase and the cost of goods sold at the point of sale, and the net is booked as gross profit by the Company. When a customer purchases a gift card, for example, a value is assigned to a digital PIN number which puts a certain value on their gift card, to be redeemed by the purchaser at their convenience.
There are various fees that get added to the cost of the gift card, including commissions and a transaction fee. The transaction fee is split between the store and the Company. The volume of transactions for each customer in a given month varies, with some points of sale more active in certain months than others.
Prepaid services markets
After the acquisition of certain assets from RWJ Marketing Services LLC in September 2017, the majority of the point of sale locations held by UGopherServices are in the Southeastern US, but the geographic penetration of the locations overall is national. As discussed above, a substantial portion of the investment in the UGopherServices investment was written off in the third fiscal quarter of 2018.
Prepaid services competition
Given the nature of its business (primarily gift cards, prepaid long distance and wireless calls, and selling handsets and SIM cards), the competitors are numerous, as any company that issues gift cards, such as Starbucks and Best Buy, could potentially compete with the gift cards that the company sells at these points of sale. Competitors that sell prepaid calling and wireless plans are also numerous. Although its competitors do not necessarily sell their gift and calling cards at the same points of sale at which the company sells its goods, they could, though not on the rack that the Company controls that is positioned within the store.
Asset tracking IoT
The Company plans to launch a series of software and microchip design products that integrate into strategic technology partners’ solutions and enable real-time tracking and management of IoT-connect assets. As an example, the Company’s patented Guardian Patch solution is a sticky adhesive patch that is placed on an object to be tracked, and relays the location of the asset via a mesh network that does not rely on GSM or GPS technology. The Company currently supplies another asset tracking solution, the GuardianORB Pet Tracker, enabling real-time, mesh network, long-distance tracking of pets.
Additionally, GopherInsight™ allows the tracking and enhanced security of digital assets, including blockchain-based assets.
Asset tracking IoT markets
The applications for the Company’s asset tracking solution are vast. Vertical target markets may include segments such as public sector, healthcare sector, banking financial services and insurance (BFSI) sector, transport and logistics sector, retail sector, commercial sector, industrial sector, energy & utility sector, manufacturing sector and other sectors.
Asset tracking IoT competition
The prevailing solutions in the asset tracking marketplace currently are a combination of barcoding and RFID technologies. The Company’s asset tracking solutions offers considerable advantages over existing solutions, because those solutions require that the asset is near the scanner to be scanned, and such solutions are “point to point,” meaning they require repeated scan points along a route in order to update the location of the asset. The GopherInsight platform, including the planned and patented Guardian Patch solution, is more accurate and when placed on or into the asset, can interactively locate and update information on an asset anywhere on earth. It works via a Gopher-enabled global mesh network, does not need GPS or GSM to locate the package, and is regularly transmitting information on the asset, meaning that there is no need to frequently re-scan the asset to update its location. In addition, the Company’s solutions are planned to include resource and distributed database management features which are not normally found in IoT systems.
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There are many competitors supplying asset tracking and asset tracking IoT systems today, including companies such as AT&T, IBM and Verizon. It is Gopher’s goal to offer the GopherInsight platform to some or all of these competitors to upgrade and differentiate their solutions.
Wireless mesh networking
Wireless mesh networks consist of LAN/MAN/WAN solutions that are infrastructurally-intensive, may rely on regulated frequencies and bandwidth, often have so-called “last mile” problems areas where either economics or population density make it too expensive for current solutions to cover, and difficult to manage centrally. The Company’s GopherInsight platform makes it easy to add and manage last mile capacity. The solution is easily integrated into existing networks. The company’s Avant! AI platform is designed for easy integration with, and management of, additional coverage for customer networks.
Additionally, the Company will be targeting device manufacturers as strategic technology partners and OEMs. If a mobile phone manufacturer wishes to add GopherInsight to is devices, GopherInsight allows devices to communicate without the need for an internet service provider, thus dramatically reducing costs.
Wireless mesh networking markets
The Company will target telecommunications providers, corporate entities that run LAN or wide-area networks, universities, and government entities.
Wireless mesh networking markets competition
The competitors for wireless mesh networking solutions, and AI solutions, are the entities themselves that have their own capability. The Company’s strategy is to integrate and “wrap around” those solutions to make them more efficient, less costly, and less infrastructurally-intensive, while at the same time solving last mile problems to the end user.
Mobiquity Agreement
On September 4, 2018, Gopher the Company and Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (OTCQB: MOBQ”) (“Mobiquity”) entered an Agreement (the “MOBQ Agreement”) pursuant to which the parties exchanged equity interest in each of the companies. In accordance with the Agreement, the Company will receive 1,000 shares of Mobiquity’s restricted Series AAAA Preferred Stock (the “Mobiquity Preferred Stock”) in consideration of Company’s concurrent sale and issuance to Mobiquity of 10,000,000 shares of Company’s restricted Common Stock (the “Gopher Common Stock”). The shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock are convertible into an aggregate of up to 100,000,000 shares of Mobiquity common stock (the “Mobiquity Common Stock”) and 150,000,000 common stock purchase warrants (the “Mobiquity Warrants”). The Mobiquity Warrants shall have a term of 5-years from the date of grant and shall be exercisable at a price of $0.12 per share and the shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall not be convertible into shares of Mobiquity Common Stock and the Mobiquity Warrants shall not be contemporaneously granted until after Mobiquity’s Board of Directors and stockholders shall have increased the authorized number of shares of Mobiquity’s common stock to a number sufficient to accommodate a reserve in the Company’s favor of 250,000,000 shares of Mobiquity’s common stock. The Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall have immediate voting rights equal to the number of shares of Mobiquity Common Stock into which they may be converted, not including the shares of Mobiquity’s common stock underlying the Mobiquity Warrants (the “Mobiquity Warrant Shares”). The closing occurred on September 4, 2018.
Mobiquity agreed that for a period beginning immediately upon the six (6)-month anniversary of the date hereof and ending on the twenty-four (24)-month anniversary of the date hereof (the “Leak-Out Period”), Mobiquity shall have the right to sell or otherwise transfer into the public markets on any given day up to 20,000 shares of Gopher Common Stock. Mobiquity may transfer all or a portion of the shares of Gopher Common Stock otherwise at any time, so long as the receiving party adheres to the above Leak-Out Period.
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On November 19, 2018, the Company and Mobiquity entered into an Amendment and Exercise Letter waiving the requirement that Mobiquity’s Board of Directors and stockholders increase the authorized number of shares of Mobiquity’s common stock to a number sufficient to accommodate a reserve in the Company’s favor of 250,000,000 shares of Mobiquity’s common stock prior to the conversion of the Mobiquity Preferred Stock or exercise of the Mobiquity Warrants. In addition, the Company converted 200 shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock resulting in the issuance to the Company by Mobiquity of 20 million shares of Mobiquity Common Stock and 30 million Mobiquity Warrants. The Company exercised the 30 million Mobiquity Warrants at an exercise price of $0.12 per share of common stock, payable through of the issuance to Mobiquity of 10 million shares of common stock of the Company.
On February 6, 2019, the Company entered into a letter agreement with Gopher Protocol Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsabilidad Limitada, a Costa Rican company (“Gopher CR”) and a 50% owned subsidiary of the Company, pursuant to which the Company sold 30,000,000 shares of Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (“Mobiquity”) to Gopher CR in the principal amount of $5,000,000 secured by all of the assets of Gopher CR payable with 10% interest on the two year anniversary.
GBT Technologies, S.A. (“GBT”)
On September 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Exclusive Intellectual Property License and Royalty Agreement (the “GBT License Agreement”) with GBT, a fully compliant and regulated cryptocurrency exchange platform that currently operates in Costa Rica as a decentralized cryptocurrency platform, pursuant to which, among other things, the Company granted to GBT an exclusive, royalty-bearing right and license relating intellectual property relating to systems and methods of converting electronic transmissions into digital currency as reflected in that certain patent filed with the United Stated Patent and Trademark Office on or about June 14, 2018 (EFS ID: 32893586; Application Number: 16008069; collectively, the “Digital Currently Technology”). Pursuant to the GBT License Agreement, the Company granted GBT an exclusive worldwide license to use the Digital Currency Technology to make, use, sell, lease or otherwise commercialize and dispose of products and devices utilizing the Digital Currently Technology.
Under the terms of the GBT License Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive a royalty payment of 2% of gross revenue of each licensed product sold by GBT during the period starting in which revenue is first generated using the licensed products and continuing for five years thereafter. Upon signing the GBT License Agreement, GBT paid the Company $300,000, which is nonrefundable. The Company has recognized the $300,000 as revenue during the year ended December 31, 2018. Upon GBT making available for sale (the “Commercial Event”) an ICO (Initial Coin Offering) (the “Coin”), GBT will make a payment to the Company in the amount of $5,000,000. Further, upon the Commercial Event, GBT will grant the Company the ability to acquire 30% of the Coin at a 30% discount of such offering price of the Coin. The GBT License Agreement commenced as of the signing date and, unless terminated in accordance with the termination provisions of the GBT License Agreement, shall remain in force until the expiration of the patent pertaining to the Digital Currency Technology; provided that the right to use trade secrets shall survive the expiration of the GBT License Agreement provided the Company has not terminated. Prior to the signing of the GBT License Agreement, GBT advanced $200,000 to the Company, which the parties have agreed will be applied toward the $5,000,000 fee when it becomes due. The $200,000 is recorded as unearned revenue at December 31, 2018 in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. As of the date of this filing, the Commercial Event has not yet occurred.
On March 9, 2019 the Company entered into a Non-Binding Letter of Intent for general terms upon which our respective Board of Directors or similar governing body will adopt a definitive share exchange agreement (the “Agreement”), and recommend that the GBT Shareholders enter into the Agreement whereby Gopher will purchase all of the outstanding securities of GBT Technologies (the “GBT Securities”) from the GBT Shareholders for consideration consisting of shares of the Company. This LOI sets forth the basic terms of the share purchase transaction and reflects the current, good faith intentions of Gopher, GBT Technologies and the GBT Shareholders with respect thereto. No assurance can be given that a definitive agreement will be entered into, that the appropriate governing bodies including the Company’s Board of Directors will approve such transactions, that the proposed transactions contemplated above will be consummated, or that GBT will be able to obtain adequate funds needed to fund its business plan.
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Latinex
On January 8, 2019, the Company entered into a Stock Pledge Agreement with Latin American Exchange Latinex Casa de Cambio, S.A., a Costa Rica corporation (“Latinex”). Latinex is a fully licensed and Central Bank regulated “Currency Exchange” in Costa Rica. In order to provide that Latinex may maintain its required regulatory capital as required by various regulators, the Company has pledged restricted shares of its common stock valued at $7.5 million for a term of three years in consideration of an annual payment of $375,000 paid in quarterly installments of $93,750. In lieu of cash payment, Latinex may pay the Company in virtual currency of WISE Network S.A. valued at a 50% discount of its offering price of $10 per token. In the event Latinex’s required capital has decreased below $5,000,000, Latinex is permitted to sell the pledged shares of common stock only in an amount to ensure that Latinex can satisfy the required capital levels. The Company must consent to such sale of the shares of common stock, if at all, which may not be unreasonably withheld. Upon expiration of the agreement, the remaining shares of common stock shall be returned to the Company free and clear of all liens.
Joint Ventures
Dr. Rittman Employment Agreement
On April 6, 2018, the Company and Danny Rittman, Chief Technology Officer and a Director of the Company, agreed to amend his employment agreement pursuant to which he will receive salary at the rate of $250,000 annually payable in equal increments of $15,000 per month. An additional $70,000 shall be payable within 15 days of the end of the calendar year. On September 14, 2018, the Company and Dr. Rittman entered into a letter agreement confirming that the Company is the owner of all intellectual property developed by Dr. Rittman relating to the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, including a global platform with both mobile and fixed solutions, commencing June 16, 2015 and continuing until Dr. Rittman’s employment agreement is terminated.
Guardian Agreements
On March 29, 2016, Gopher contributed all of its rights relating to its proprietary microchip that is within a sticky patch package (the “Patch”) to Guardian LLC in consideration of 50% of the profit generated by Guardian LLC (the “Joint Venture”). Guardian LLC was responsible for investing all needed funds for the purpose of developing the Patch and related products to the Patch. In addition, Guardian LLC was required to provide short term loans to Gopher on an as needed basis secured by Gopher’s economic interest in the Joint Venture. The Company provided IT services to Guardian LLC for a monthly fee. On August 30, 2018, Guardian Patch converted the 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock into 2,000,000 shares of common stock. On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Interest Purchase Agreement with Guardian, LLC pursuant to which the Company purchased Guardian LLC’s 50% interest in a joint venture (the “JV Interest”) previously entered between the parties in March 2016 covering the Guardian Patch, Puzpix and Epsilon. In consideration for the JV Interest, the Company issued Guardian 12,500,000 shares of common stock. During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company took a charge to earnings of $11,750,000 related to the purchase of Guardian LLC’s 50% JV Interest.
Regulatory
The Company has commenced development, and the Company has completed the Statement of Work (SOW) for the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) survey to deploy the Company’s Guardian Global Tracking Device within the continental US. The Company has also completed their transmitters/transceivers modules feasibility research. Although the Company can use open channels, and therefore is not required to comply with various FCC regulations relevant to the system, the Company has chosen to comply, and is complying with FCC regulations. The FCC regulates the limits of potentially harmful interference to licensed transmitters due to low power unlicensed transmitters. The Guardian Patch/Sphere system consists of advanced security protocols in order to maintain the global, private, fully-secured network. In addition, the Guardian Patch device needs to perform communication tasks across the globe providing breakthrough tracking features. The Company and its technology licensing partner, Guardian LLC, successfully completed thorough research that involved security, performance and FCC regulations compliance. Based on this research, a set of particular frequencies was chosen to be used by Guardian LLC. On or around December 1, 2016, Guardian LLC issued Statement of Work for the Placement and Development of Guardian Sphere and its Base System. By the end of fiscal 2017, the Company completed the design and construction of the Guardian Patch/Sphere circuit prototype device. The Company has completed the construction of 10 prototype units, and implemented an intensive testing program to be tested as a complete system in designated areas by the Company. The system performed as planned. In 2018, the Company coded and completed the mobile applications that run the devices, and those applications are available for download in various online application stores. The Company is exploring licensing deals with strategic partners and OEMs, and will customize the consumer device (for example, the ORB pet tracking device) according to the specifications and requirements of these licensing arrangements.
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Intellectual Property
To date, the Company, has filed for 16 (sixteen) different patents with an additional three in process, as well as 6 (six) trademarks. The patents are owned by the Company. These patents and trademarks, as well as various websites and social media platforms, comprise the Company’s intellectual properties. To date, one of the Company’s patents have been granted (patent number 10,021,522), and five trademarks have also been granted. Three additional patents are in progress, and the Company expects for the patents to be granted in 2019. Additionally, 3-4 new patents may be filed in 2019.
Employees
As of December 31, 2018, we had 26 full time employees and 7 part time employees. We also utilize outside consultants and contractors as needed.
Clients and Customers
After the acquisition of certain assets from RWJ Marketing Services LLC in September 2017, together with ECS in March 2018, the Company has approximately 9,400 point of sale locations, each of which process varying volumes of transactions per month.
As a Smaller Reporting Company, the Company is not required to include the disclosure under this Item 1A. Risk Factors. Despite the fact that we are not required to provide risk factors, we consider the following factors to be risks to our continued growth and development:
WE HAVE A LIMITED OPERATING HISTORY IN AN EVOLVING INDUSTRY, WHICH MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO EVALUATE OUR FUTURE PROSPECTS AND MAY INCREASE THE RISK THAT WE WILL NOT BE SUCCESSFUL.
We only recently started our operations in our current business in 2015. We have a limited operating history in an evolving industry that may not develop as expected. Assessing our business and future prospects is challenging in light of the risks and difficulties we may encounter. These risks and difficulties include our ability to:
| ● | accurately forecast our revenues and plan our operating expenses; |
| ● | successfully expand our business; |
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| ● | assimilate our acquisitions; |
| ● | adapt to rapidly evolving trends in the ways consumers and businesses interact with technology; |
| ● | avoid interruptions or disruptions in the offering of our products and our services; |
| ● | develop a scalable, high-performance technology infrastructure that can efficiently and reliably handle increased usage, as well as the deployment of new features and products; |
| ● | hire, integrate and retain talented sales, customer service, technology and other personnel; and |
| ● | effectively manage rapid growth in personnel and operations. |
If the demand for our products offered through our points of sales or our products under development are not finalized, our business will be harmed. We may not be able to successfully address these risks and difficulties, which could harm our business and results of operations.
OUR LIMITED OPERATING HISTORY MAKES IT DIFFICULT FOR US TO EVALUATE OUR FUTURE BUSINESS PROSPECTS AND MAKE DECISIONS BASED ON THOSE ESTIMATES OF OUR FUTURE PERFORMANCE.
We shifted our focus to our real-time, heuristic- (self-learning/artificial intelligence) based mobile technology in 2015 and recently acquired point of sale terminals. We have a limited operating history and generated $9.2 million in revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $51.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. As a consequence, it is difficult, if not impossible, to forecast our future results based upon our historical data. Reliance on the historical results may not be representative of the results we will achieve. Because of the uncertainties related to our limited historical operations, we may be hindered in our ability to anticipate and timely adapt to increases or decreases in revenues or expenses. If we make poor budgetary decisions as a result of unreliable historical data, we could be less profitable or continue to incur losses.
GOPHER PROTOCOL’S RESULTS OF OPERATIONS HAVE NOT RESULTED IN PROFITABILITY AND WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ACHIEVE PROFITABILITY GOING FORWARD
Gopher Protocol does not accrue or capitalize development costs (or any costs to this effect) and expense it to its profit and loss statements as required by US GAPP. As such, the Company incurred a net loss amounting to $51,769,670 for the year ended December 31, 2018, and $10,287,290 for the year ended December 31, 2017. If we incur additional significant operating losses, our stock price, may decline, perhaps significantly. Our management is developing plans to alleviate the negative trends and conditions described above. Our business plan is speculative and unproven. There is no assurance that we will be successful in executing our business plan or that even if we successfully implement our business plan, that we will be able to curtail our losses now or in the future. Further, as we are an emerging enterprise, we expect that net losses will continue, and our working capital deficiency will increase.
WE HAVE GENERATED INSIGNIFICANT POSITIVE CASH FLOW, AND OUR ABILITY TO GENERATE POSITIVE CASH FLOW IS UNCERTAIN. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO GENERATE POSITIVE CASH FLOW OR OBTAIN SUFFICIENT CAPITAL WHEN NEEDED, OUR BUSINESS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS WILL BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED AND WE COULD BE FORCED TO SUSPEND OR DISCONTINUE OPERATIONS.
Our operations have generated insignificant positive cash flow for any reporting period since our inception, and we have funded our operations primarily through the issuance of common stock and short-term and long-term debt and convertible debt. Our limited operating history makes an evaluation of our future prospects difficult. The actual amount of funds that we will need to meet our operating needs will be determined by a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. These factors include the timing and volume of sales transactions, the success of our marketing strategy, market acceptance of our products, the success of our manufacturing and research and development efforts (including any unanticipated delays), our manufacturing and labor costs, the costs associated with obtaining and enforcing our intellectual property rights, regulatory changes, competition, technological developments in the market, evolving industry standards and the amount of working capital investments we are required to make.
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Our ability to continue to operate until we are able to generate sufficient our cash flow from operations will depend on our ability to generate sufficient positive cash flow from our operations. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow from our operations, our business and future prospects will be adversely affected and we could be forced to suspend or discontinue operations.
The Company sustained net losses of $51,769,670 and our operating activities used cash flows of $4,651,829 for the year ended December 31, 2018. The Company had a working capital deficit of $3,797,666, stockholders’ equity of $14,516,389 and an accumulated deficit of $66,151,332 at December 31, 2018. Over the same period in 2017, the Company sustained net losses of $10,287,290, and our operating activities provided cash flows of $228,711. In 2017, the Company had a working capital deficit of $1,060,506, stockholders’ equity of $4,221,841, and an accumulated deficit of $14,381,662.
WE WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL CAPITAL TO SUPPORT BUSINESS GROWTH, AND THIS CAPITAL MIGHT NOT BE AVAILABLE ON ACCEPTABLE TERMS, IF AT ALL.
We intend to continue to make investments to support our business growth and we will require additional funds to respond to business challenges, including the need to develop new features and products or enhance our existing products, improve our operating infrastructure or acquire complementary businesses and technologies. Accordingly, we may need to engage in equity or debt financings to secure additional funds. If we raise additional funds through future issuances of equity or convertible debt securities, our existing stockholders could suffer significant dilution, and any new equity securities we issue could have rights, preferences and privileges superior to those of holders of our common stock. Any debt financing that we secure in the future could involve restrictive covenants relating to our capital raising activities and other financial and operational matters, which may make it more difficult for us to obtain additional capital and to pursue business opportunities, including potential acquisitions. We may not be able to obtain additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. If we are unable to obtain adequate financing or financing on terms satisfactory to us when we require it, our ability to continue to support our business growth and to respond to business challenges could be impaired, and our business may be harmed.
WE DEPEND UPON KEY PERSONNEL AND NEED ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL
Our success depends on our inability to attract and retain key personnel including Douglas Davis, our CEO, and Dr. Danny Rittman, our CTO, and our inability to do so may materially and adversely affect our business operations. The loss of qualified personnel could have a material and adverse effect on our business operations. Additionally, the success of the Company’s operations will largely depend upon its ability to successfully attract and maintain competent and qualified key management personnel. As with any company with limited resources, there can be no guaranty that the Company will be able to attract such individuals or that the presence of such individuals will necessarily translate into profitability for the Company.
OUR BUSINESS REQUIRES SUBSTANTIAL CAPITAL, AND IF WE ARE UNABLE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATIONS OUR PROFITABILITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION WILL SUFFER AND JEOPARDIZE OUR ABILITY TO CONTINUE OPERATIONS
We require substantial capital to support our operations. If we are unable to generate adequate cash flows from our operations, maintain adequate financing or other sources of capital are not available, we could be forced to suspend, curtail or reduce our operations, which could harm our revenues, profitability, financial condition and business prospects.
A SINGLE STOCKHOLDER HOLDS A CONTROLLING INTEREST IN OUR COMPANY, WHICH COULD LIMIT YOUR ABILITY TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF ANY STOCKHOLDER VOTE
One shareholder beneficially owns approximately 34% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. Under our Certificate of Incorporation and Nevada law, the vote of a majority of the shares outstanding is generally required to approve most stockholder action. As a result, these stockholders will be able to significantly influence the outcome of stockholder votes for the foreseeable future, including votes concerning the election of directors, amendments to our Certificate of Incorporation or proposed mergers or other significant corporate transactions.
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THERE IS CURRENTLY A LIMITED PUBLIC MARKET FOR OUR COMMON STOCK. FAILURE TO FURTHER DEVELOP OR MAINTAIN A TRADING MARKET COULD NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE VALUE OF OUR COMMON STOCK AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT OR IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO SELL YOUR STOCK.
There is a limited public market for our Common Stock, which is traded on the OTCQB under the symbol GOPH. We cannot give any assurances that there will ever be a mature, developed market for our common stock. Failure to further develop or maintain an active trading market could negatively affect the value of our shares and make it difficult for you to sell your shares or recover any part of your investment in us. Even if a market for our common stock does develop in a material way, the market price of our common stock may be highly volatile. In addition to the uncertainties relating to our future operating performance and the profitability of our operations, factors such as variations in our interim financial results, or various, as yet unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond our control, may have a negative effect on the market price of our common stock.
IF WE FAIL TO MAINTAIN AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM OF INTERNAL CONTROLS, WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ACCURATELY REPORT OUR FINANCIAL RESULTS OR PREVENT FRAUD. AS A RESULT, CURRENT AND POTENTIAL STOCKHOLDERS COULD LOSE CONFIDENCE IN OUR FINANCIAL REPORTING, WHICH WOULD HARM OUR BUSINESS AND THE TRADING PRICE OF OUR STOCK.
Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and effectively prevent fraud. If we cannot provide reliable financial reports or prevent fraud, our brand and operating results could be harmed. We have in the past discovered, and may in the future discover, areas of our internal controls that need improvement. For example, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2018, we reported that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective due to the lack of resources and the reliance on outside consultants. We intend to increase management’s review of our financials. We cannot be certain that these measures will ensure that we implement and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock.
Additional Risks Related to Our Common Stock
Because we are quoted on the OTCQB marketplace instead of a national securities exchange, our investors may experience significant volatility in the market price of our stock and have difficulty selling their shares.
Our Common Stock is currently quoted on the OTC Market Group’s OTCQB marketplace under the ticker symbol “GOPH.” The OTCQB is a regulated quotation service that displays real-time quotes and last sale prices in over-the-counter securities. Trading in shares quoted on the OTCQB is often thin and characterized by volatility. This volatility may be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of readily available price quotations, the absence of consistent administrative supervision of bid and ask quotations, lower trading volume and market conditions. As a result, there may be wide fluctuations in the market price of the shares of our Common Stock for reasons unrelated to operating performance, and this volatility, when it occurs, may have a negative effect on the market price for our securities. Moreover, the OTCQB is not a stock exchange, and trading of securities on this platform is more sporadic than the trading of securities listed on a national quotation system or stock exchange. Accordingly, our stockholders may not be able to realize a fair price from their shares when they determine to sell them or may have to hold them for a substantial period of time until the market for our Common Stock improves.
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Our stock price and trading volume may be volatile, which could result in substantial losses for our stockholders.
The equity trading markets may experience periods of volatility, which could result in highly variable and unpredictable pricing of equity securities. The market price of our Common Stock could change in ways that may or may not be related to our business, our industry or our operating performance and financial condition. In addition, the trading volume in our Common Stock has been low and may fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. We have experienced significant volatility in the price of our stock. In addition, the stock markets in general can experience considerable price and volume fluctuations.
We have not paid dividends in the past and have no immediate plans to pay dividends.
We plan to reinvest all of our earnings, to the extent we have earnings, in order to develop and deliver our products and cover operating costs and to otherwise become and remain competitive. We do not plan to pay any cash dividends with respect to our securities in the foreseeable future. We cannot assure you that we would, at any time, generate sufficient surplus cash that would be available for distribution to the holders of our Common Stock as a dividend. Therefore, you should not expect to receive cash dividends on our Common Stock.
Shares eligible for future sale may adversely affect the market for our Common Stock.
Of the 207,409,616 shares of our Common Stock outstanding as of the date of this Annual Report, approximately 75,576,747 shares are held by “non-affiliates,” and about 44,578,784 shares are freely tradable without restriction pursuant to Rule 144. Any substantial sale of our Common Stock pursuant to Rule 144 or pursuant to any resale prospectus may have a material adverse effect on the market price of our Common Stock.
You may experience future dilution as a result of future equity offerings.
In order to raise additional capital, we may in the future offer additional shares of our Common Stock or other securities convertible into or exchangeable for our Common Stock at prices that may not be the same as the price per share in this offering. We may sell shares or other securities in any future offering at a price per share that is lower than the price per share paid by investors in this offering, which would result in those newly issued shares being dilutive. In addition, investors purchasing shares or other securities in the future could have rights superior to existing stockholders, which could impair the value of your shares. The price per share at which we sell additional shares of our Common Stock, or securities convertible or exchangeable into shares of our Common Stock, in future transactions may be higher or lower than the price per share paid by investors in this offering. The Company filed Form S-1 registration statement with the SEC on or around February 8, 2019 for potentially 22,500,000 dilutive common shares issued potentially be issued from the exercise of certain warrants in connection with a transaction with an unaffiliated third party institutional investor. The S-1 will become effective either after the filing of this report, or at the same time. There can be no assurance that the investor that holds the warrants will exercise those warrants. The warrants have varying exercise prices, the lowest of which is $0.50.
Our charter documents and Nevada law may inhibit a takeover that stockholders consider favorable.
Provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and applicable provisions of Nevada law may delay or discourage transactions involving an actual or potential change in control or change in our management, including transactions in which stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares, or transactions that our stockholders might otherwise deem to be in their best interests. The provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws:
| ☐ | limit who may call stockholder meetings; |
| ☐ | do not provide for cumulative voting rights; and |
| ☐ | provide that all vacancies may be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of directors then in office, even if less than a quorum. |
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There are limitations on director/officer liability.
As permitted by Nevada law, our certificate of incorporation limits the liability of our directors for monetary damages for breach of a director’s fiduciary duty except for liability in certain instances. As a result of our charter provision and Nevada law, shareholders may have limited rights to recover against directors for breach of fiduciary duty. In addition, our certificate of incorporation provides that we shall indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Penny stock regulations may impose certain restrictions on marketability of our securities.
The SEC has adopted regulations which generally define a “penny stock” to be any equity security that has a market price of less than $5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. A security listed on a national securities exchange is exempt from the definition of a penny stock. Our Common Stock is not currently listed on a national security exchange. Our Common Stock is therefore subject to rules that impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell such securities to persons other than established customers and accredited investors (generally those with assets in excess of $1,000,000 or annual income exceeding $200,000, or $300,000 together with their spouse). For transactions covered by such rules, the broker-dealer must make a special suitability determination for the purchase of such securities and have received the purchaser’s written consent to the transaction prior to the purchase.
Additionally, for any transaction involving a penny stock, unless exempt, the rules require the delivery, prior to the transaction, of a risk disclosure document mandated by the SEC relating to the penny stock market. The broker-dealer must also disclose the commission payable to both the broker-dealer and the registered representative, current quotations for the securities and, if the broker-dealer is the sole market maker, the broker dealer must disclose this fact and the broker-dealer’s presumed control over the market. Finally, monthly statements must be sent disclosing recent price information for the penny stock held in the account and information on the limited market in penny stocks. Broker-dealers must wait two business days after providing buyers with disclosure materials regarding a security before effecting a transaction in such security. Consequently, the “penny stock” rules restrict the ability of broker-dealers to sell our securities and affect the ability of investors to sell our securities in the secondary market and the price at which such purchasers can sell any such securities, thereby affecting the liquidity of the market for our Common Stock.
Stockholders should also be aware that, according to the SEC, the market for penny stocks has suffered in recent years from patterns of fraud and abuse. Such patterns include:
| ● | control of the market for the security by one or more broker-dealers that are often related to the promoter or issuer ; |
| ● | manipulation of prices through prearranged matching of purchases and sales and false and misleading press releases ; |
| ● | “boiler room” practices involving high pressure sales tactics and unrealistic price projections by inexperienced sales persons ; |
| ● | excessive and undisclosed bid-ask differentials and markups by selling broker-dealers ; and |
| ● | the wholesale dumping of the same securities by promoters and broker-dealers after prices have been manipulated to a desired level, along with the inevitable collapse of those prices with consequent investor losses. |
FINRA sales practice requirements may limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our stock.
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (referred to as FINRA) has adopted rules requiring 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 or 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 has indicated its belief that there is a high probability that speculative or low-priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. If these FINRA requirements are applicable to us or our securities, they may make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that at least some of their customers buy our Common Stock, which may limit the ability of our stockholders to buy and sell our common stock and could have an adverse effect on the market for and price of our common stock.
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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
As a Smaller Reporting Company, the Company is not required to include the disclosure under this Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments. At this time, there are no unresolved staff comments.
During 2017, the Company relocated its headquarters to 2500 Broadway, Suite F-125, Santa Monica, California. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company paid approximately $2,800 per month in rent for this office space. The Company paid a security deposit of approximately $2,000. The Company believes its current facilities will be adequate for the foreseeable future.
Legal Proceedings
From time to time, the Company may be involved in various litigation matters, which arise in the ordinary course of business. There is currently no litigation that management believes will have a material impact on the financial position of the Company.
On June 10, 2016, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Waterford Group LLC (“Waterford”) pursuant to which the Company engaged Waterford to provide sales and marketing consulting and advisory services to the Company in consideration of 100,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company (the “Shares”) and a common stock purchase warrant (the “Warrant”) to acquire 750,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $2.25 per share for a period of five (5) years. 50,000 of the Shares were issued to Waterford upon the execution of the Agreement. The Warrant vested on a quarterly basis in eight (8) equal quarterly installments each in the amount of 93,750 shares each quarter during the term of the Agreement. The first quarterly installment vested upon the execution of the Agreement and each subsequent quarterly installment was to vest each quarter thereafter. The Company believes that Waterford is in default of its agreement, as it failed to perform or provide any services under the agreement. As such, the Company put Waterford on notice in writing that the Company did not issue shares or warrants during the third or fourth fiscal quarters of 2016 due to the default. On or around January 23, 2017, the Company filed a complaint against Waterford and the Company’s Transfer Agent, in Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside. On February 1, 2017, the Company obtained a temporary restraining order that prohibits Waterford from (x) lifting the restricted legend from the 50,000 shares that it received in connection with signing the Agreement; (y) selling the 50,000 shares to another party; and, (z) from exercising the warrant on 93,750 shares that was issued and vested upon the execution of the Agreement. As ordered by the court, on February 9, 2017, the Company deposited a Corporate Surety Bond in the amount of $42,875 to secure the temporary restraining order. On or around February 27, 2017, the Company was issued a stay of the temporary restraining order barring its transfer agent from providing shares in connection with the exercise of the first Waterford warrant on 93,750 shares that was provided to Waterford in connection with the execution of the engagement letter that was executed by the parties on or around June 10, 2016. On October 12, 2018, the Waterford legal matter was settled in favor of the Company that resulted in the cancelation of Waterford’s 93,750 warrants and the cancelation of 50,000 shares of the Company’s common stock owned by Waterford.
On January 21, 2018, RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC et al filed a complaint against the Company et al claiming breach of contract among other claims. On February 13, 2019, the Company answered such claim and filed a cross complaint against RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, Gregory Bauer and Robert Warren Jackson claiming fraud among other items. The case is being heard in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles – Central District. The case number is 19STCV03320.
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Spare CS, Inc.
On January 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Initial Term Agreement (the “ITA”) with Spare CS Inc. (“Spare”), a Delaware corporation, pursuant to which the Company agreed to acquire 50% of the equity of Spare. Spare is a mobile banking app that allows customers to access cash with no ATM, no debit or credit card, and no purchase required from participating merchants. During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company terminated the ITA with Spare and wrote off the $265,000 that has been advanced to Spare. The $265,000 in included as part of the impairment of assets in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFERY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
The Company is authorized to issue 500,000,000 of its $0.00001 par value common stock and 20,000,000 shares of its $0.00001 par value preferred stock Series B and 10,000 shares of its $0.00001 par value preferred stock Series C, 100,000 shares of its $0.00001 par value preferred Series D shares, and 2,000,000 of its $0.00001 par value preferred Series G shares. As of December 31, 2018, 182,224,264 shares of common stock, as well as 45,000 shares of preferred stock Series B, 700 shares of preferred stock Series C, zero shares of preferred stock Series D and zero shares of preferred stock Series G were issued and outstanding. As of March 27, 2019, 207,409,616 shares of common stock, as well as 45,000 shares of preferred stock Series B, 700 shares of preferred stock Series C, zero shares of preferred stock Series D, and zero shares of preferred stock Series G are issued and outstanding. The Board of Directors reserves the right to issue shares of preferred stock in the future indicating preference or rights as appropriate.
Market Information
Our common stock commenced quotation on the OTCQB under the symbol “GOPH”. The following table sets forth the range of high and low prices per share of our common stock for each period indicated.
| Quarters Ended | Mar 31 | Jun 30 | Sept 30 | Dec 31 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| High | Low | High | Low | High | Low | High | Low | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2018 | $ | 2.72 | $ | 1.10 | $ | 4.49 | $ | 1.48 | $ | 2.62 | $ | 0.64 | $ | 0.97 | $ | 0.30 | |||||||||||||||||
| 2017 | $ | 1.24 | $ | 1.05 | $ | 1.14 | $ | 0.32 | $ | 0.43 | $ | 0.26 | $ | 1.42 | $ | 0.18 | |||||||||||||||||
Record Holders
The number of holders of record for our common stock as of March 27, 2019 was 93.
Dividends
The Company has not yet adopted any policy regarding payment of dividends. No cash dividends have been paid or declared since the Date of Inception.
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Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
We presently do not have equity compensation plans authorized.
Transfer agent change
On or around March 19, 2019, the Company changed transfer agents, replacing Empire Stock Transfer, Inc., located in Henderson, Nevada, with West Coast Stock Transfer with a business address at 721 N. Vulcan Ave. Ste. 205, Encinitas, CA 92024; West Coast Stock Transfer’s website is www.westcoaststocktransfer.com , and their phone number is (619) 664-4780.
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 Commission shall require by rule or regulation. |
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.
Recent Issuances of Unregistered Securities
Authorized Shares-Common stock
The Company currently has authorized 500,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.00001.
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Authorized Shares-Preferred stock
The Company has authorized 20,000,000 Preferred Stock Series B shares, par value $0.00001; 10,000 Preferred Stock Series C shares authorized, par value $0.00001; 100,000 Preferred Stock Series D shares, par value $0.00001 and 2,000,000 Preferred Stock Series G shares, par value $0.00001.
Common Stock
During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company had the following transactions in its common stock:
| ● | issued 66,000,000 shares in connection with the conversion of 66,000 shares of Series D Preferred Stock; |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares in connection with the conversion of 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock; |
| ● | issued 250,000 shares to a consultant for professional services rendered valued at $123,725. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the dates that the shares earned based on the agreement; |
| ● | issued 1,800,000 shares to employees and board members as part of their agreements with the Company. The value of the common stock of $4,404,500 was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of the respective agreements; |
| ● | issued 3,000,000 to a consultant for services related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the RWJ assets. The 3,000,000 shares were earned when the operations of the RWJ assets produced revenue in excess of $10,000,000. The value of the common stock of $4,590,000 was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of the shares were earned. |
| ● | issued aggregate of 1,250,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered valued at $2,715,000. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the ECS and Electronic Check assets (see Note 3). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of acquisition of ECS and Electronic Check; |
| ● | issued 500,000 shares for the acquisition of the ECS assets valued at $1,010,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; |
| ● | issued 250,000 shares for the acquisition of the Electronic Check valued at $695,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; |
| ● | issued 10,000,000 shares in connection with its equity interest in Mobiquity valued at $9,980,000 (See Note 6). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of the Mobiquity transaction; |
| ● | issued an additional 10,000,000 shares to Mobiquity valued at $3,90,000 for payment of the exercise price for 20,000,000 warrants previously granted to the Company. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 1,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered valued at $998,000. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of its equity interest in Mobiquity. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of Mobiquity transaction; |
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| ● | issued 12,500,000 shares to Guardian LLC in connection the termination of its 50% interest in the profits of certain of the Company’s products (See Note 11). The shares were valued at $11,750,000 which was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock at the date of the agreement; |
| ● | issued 324,528 shares to Bellridge for the conversion of $275,000 in convertible notes and $17,075 in accrued interest; |
| ● | issued 9,499,274 shares to an unaffiliated third party institutional investor for the conversion of $2,000,000 in convertible notes and $6,521 in accrued interest; |
| ● | issued 318,583 shares to Bellridge pursuant to the limited price protection. The shares were valued at $213,451 which was charged to financing cost was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered in connection with the issuance of the Company’s common stock as payment of the exercise price for the Mobiquity warrants valued at $780,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered in connection with the issuance of the Company’s common stock as payment of the exercise price for the Mobiquity warrants valued at $780,000. |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to Eagle Equities LLC as a result of the Company issuing shares of common stock for less than $0.30 pursuant to an agreement with Eagle Equities. The shares were valued at $670,000, which was charged to financing cost was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date the Company issued shares for less than $0.30; |
| ● | a consultant for services rendered valued at $30,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 1,272,726 shares of common stock to an investor for cash proceeds of $1,500,000; and |
| ● | canceled 50,000 shares pursuant to the settlement of a legal matter. |
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had the following transactions in its common stock:
| ● | issued 7,571,334 shares to the PTPI note holder upon the conversion of convertible note and accrued interest of $56,990; |
| ● | issued 865,366 shares to convertible note holders upon the conversion of convertible note of $100,000; |
| ● | issued an aggregate of 2,025,000 shares to two consultants for services rendered valued at $766,500. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the RWJ assets (see Note 3). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant; |
| ● | issued 5,000,000 shares for the acquisition of the RWJ assets valued at $1,850,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; and |
| ● | issued 1,333,334 shares of common stock to an investor for cash proceeds of $1,000,000 (See discussion below). |
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Eagle Equities, LLC
On December 29, 2017, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Eagle Equities, LLC (“Eagle”) pursuant to which Eagle agreed to purchase up to 2,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for a purchase price of $1,500,000 or $0.75 per share. The closing occurred on December 29, 2017 with respect to the funding of $1,000,000 resulting in the issuance of 1,333,334 shares of common stock (the “First Closing Shares”). Eagle agreed to potentially purchase an additional 666,666 shares of common stock (the “Second Closing Shares”) on or before March 31, 2018 for a purchase price of $500,000 subject to various closing conditions. On March 21, 2018, Eagle purchased an additional 666,666 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $500,000.
The Company placed an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of common stock (the “Escrow Shares”) in escrow to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the seventh month anniversary of the issuance of the First Closing Shares and Second Closing Shares, Eagle has sold any of the First Closing Shares or the Second Closing Shares at a sales price of less than $0.72 per share, then that number of Escrow Shares shall be released from escrow to Eagle as a limited make whole which shall be determined by using the following formula:
($0.72 – Closing Price) / Closing Price) * number of shares sold at a price less than $0.72.
Closing Price is price on the first day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the first day of the 7th month (and continuing monthly until the earlier of January 31, 2019 or until all shares are sold).
The Company shall deposit an additional 2,000,000 shares of common stock into escrow which shares shall only be released to Eagle, if, prior to January 31, 2019 (while Eagle continues to hold shares), the Company issues shares at an issue price of less than $0.30 per share.
The Company also issued Eagle a Common Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire 666,666 shares of common stock exercisable for three years at an exercise price of $2.00 per share (the “Eagle Warrant”). Unless otherwise agreed in writing by both the Company and Eagle, at no time will Eagle exercise any amount of the Eagle Warrant to purchase common stock that would result in Eagle owning more than 9.9% of the common stock outstanding of the Company. The Eagle Warrant contains standard anti-dilution protections.
On May 4, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Eagle pursuant to which Eagle agreed to purchase up to 1,212,120 shares of the Company’s common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $2,000,000 or $1.65 per share. The closing occurred on May 4, 2018 with respect to the funding of $500,000 resulting in the issuance of 303,030 shares of common stock and on May 25, 2018 with respect to the funding of $500,000 resulting in the issuance of an additional 303,030 shares of common stock. Additional closings of $500,000 for 303,030 shares are scheduled to close on June 15, 2018 and July 5, 2018 each. The additional closings on June 15, 2018 and July 5, 2018 have not occurred.
The Company agreed to place 303,030 shares of common stock each tranche (the “Escrow Shares”) in escrow to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the seventh month anniversary of the closing of each tranche, Eagle has sold any of its shares of common stock at a sales price of less than $1.65 per share, then that number of Escrow Shares shall be released from escrow to Eagle as a limited make whole which shall be determined by using the following formula:
($1.65 – Closing Price) / Closing Price) * number of shares sold at a price less than $1.65.
Closing Price is price on the first day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the first day of the 7th month (and continuing monthly until the earlier of June 4, 2019 or until all shares are sold.
Given that the Company issued shares to an unaffiliated third party institutional investor in a conversion at a price below $0.30 during December, the Company authorized the release of 2,000,000 shares to Eagle from escrow in December 2018.
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Series G Preferred Shares
On December 29, 2017, Guardian LLC converted all of the principal and interest of the Note, into 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock. The Series G Preferred Stock is entitled to vote on an as-converted basis, automatically converts to common stock upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up and the Company may not declare a dividend until the Series G Preferred Stock has received a dividend. Each share of Series G Preferred Stock is convertible into one shares of common stock of the Company and contain standard anti-dilution rights.
On August 30, 2018, Guardian LLC converted the 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock into 2,000,000 shares of common stock.
As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, there are 0 and 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Shares outstanding, respectively.
Warrants
The following is a summary of warrant activity.
| Weighted | ||||||||||||||||
| Weighted | Average | |||||||||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | ||||||||||||||
| Warrants | Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding | Price | Life | Value | |||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2016 | 93,750 | $ | $ | — | ||||||||||||
| Granted | 22,666,666 | 0.54 | ||||||||||||||
| Forfeited | — | |||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | |||||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2017 | 22,760,416 | $ | 0.55 | 4.67 | $ | 13,640,000 | ||||||||||
| Granted | 19,250,000 | 0.69 | ||||||||||||||
| Forfeited | (93,750 | ) | 2.25 | |||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | |||||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2018 | 41,916,666 | $ | 0.61 | 3.48 | $ | — | ||||||||||
| Exercisable, December 31, 2018 | 41,416,666 | $ | 0.61 | 3.47 | $ | — | ||||||||||
The exercise price for warrant outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2018:
| Outstanding | Exercisable | |||||||||||||
| Number of | Exercise | Number of | Exercise | |||||||||||
| Warrants | Price | Warrants | Price | |||||||||||
| 28,000,000 | $ | 0.50 | 28,000,000 | $ | 0.50 | |||||||||
| 4,500,000 | 0.75 | 4,500,000 | 0.75 | |||||||||||
| 3,000,000 | 1.00 | 3,000,000 | 1.00 | |||||||||||
| 3,000,000 | 1.85 | 3,000,000 | 1.85 | |||||||||||
| 666,666 | 2.00 | 666,666 | 2.00 | |||||||||||
| 1,000,000 | 2.35 | 1,000,000 | 2.35 | |||||||||||
| 750,000 | 2.50 | 750,000 | 2.50 | |||||||||||
| 500,000 | 2.70 | 500,000 | 2.70 | |||||||||||
| 500,000 | 2.80 | — | 2.80 | |||||||||||
| 41,916,666 | 41,416,666 | |||||||||||||
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During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued:
| ● | 1,000,000 warrants in connection with two convertible notes payable; |
| ● | 500,000 warrants as consideration for the acquisition of the ECS assets (see Note 3) valued at $992,958; |
| ● | 250,000 warrants as consideration for the acquisition of the Electronic Check assets (see Note 3) valued at $682,919; |
| ● | 2,250,000 warrants to shares to employees and board members as part of their agreements with the Company valued at $5,443,039; |
| ● | 1,750,000 warrants to a consultant for services rendered. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the ECS and Electronic Check assets (see Note 3) valued at $3,661,791; |
| ● | 13,500,000 warrants in connection with a convertible note issued to an unaffiliated third party institutional investor; and |
| ● | canceled 93,750 warrants pursuant to the settlement of a legal matter. |
The fair value of the warrants listed above was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||
| Risk-free interest rate | 2.65% | 1.73% | ||
| Expected life of the options | 5 years | 5 years | ||
| Expected volatility | 210% | 250% | ||
| Expected dividend yield | 0% | 0% |
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
As a Smaller Reporting Company, the Company is not required to include the disclosure under this Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. In addition to historical information, this discussion includes forward-looking information that involves risks and assumptions, which could cause actual results to differ materially from management’s expectations. See “Forward-Looking Statements” included in this report.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward looking statements, including without limitation, statements related to our plans, strategies, objectives, expectations, intentions and adequacy of resources. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including without limitation the following: (i) our plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions are subject to change at any time at our discretion; (ii) our plans and results of operations will be affected by our ability to manage growth; and (iii) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as ’‘may,’’ ’‘will,’’ ’’should,’’ ’‘could,’’ ’‘expects,’’ ’‘plans,’’ ’‘intends,’’ ’‘anticipates,’’ ’‘believes,’’ ’‘estimates,’’ ’‘predicts,’’ ’‘potential,’’ or ’‘continue’’ or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We are under no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this Report.
This section of the report should be read together with Footnotes of the Company audited financials. The audited statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 are compared in the sections below.
General Overview
Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”, “we”, “us”, “our”, “Gopher”, “Gopher Protocol” or “GOPH”) was incorporated on July 22, 2009 under the laws of the State of Nevada and is headquartered in Santa Monica, California. Gopher is an emerging growth company which considers itself a Native IoT solutions creator, developing Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mesh network and asset tracking IoT mobile technology. Gopher has a portfolio of Intellectual Property that when commercialized will include smart microchips, mobile application software and supporting cloud software. The system contemplates the creation of a global mesh network. The core of the system will be its advanced microchip technology that can be installed in any mobile or fixed device worldwide. Gopher envisions this system as a low-cost, private and secure network between all enabled mobile devices providing shared processing, advanced mobile database management/sharing and enhanced mobile features.
Recent Developments
On January 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Initial Term Agreement (the “ITA”) with Spare CS Inc. (“Spare”), a Delaware corporation, pursuant to which the Company agreed to acquire 50% of the equity of Spare. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company terminated the ITA with Spare and wrote off the $265,000 that has been advanced to Spare. The $265,000 in included as part of the impairment of assets in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
On March 16, 2018 ( “Closing Date”), the Company entered into and closed an Asset Purchase Agreement dated March 1, 2018 (the “ECS Purchase Agreement”) with ECS Prepaid LLC (“ECS”), a Missouri limited liability company, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from ECS, including, but not limited to, the processing prepaid platform, servers, POS terminals, customer list, a processing software program and goodwill, in consideration of $1,100,000 of which $100,000 was paid on the Closing Date and the balance is to be paid pursuant to a secured promissory note in the amount of $1,000,000 (the “ECS Note”). In addition, the Company issued 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company (the “ECS Shares”) and warrants to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock (the “ECS Warrants”). The ECS Warrants were assigned by ECS to Dennis Winfrey. The ECS Warrants are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $1.85 per share and contain standard anti-dilution protection. Under the ESC Note, which is secured by the assets acquired by the Company from ECS, the Company is required to make ten equal payments of $100,000 commencing on April 15, 2018. The Company may prepay the ECS Note at any time without penalty. The ECS Note is a short-term debt obligation that is material to the Company.
On April 2, 2018 (“Closing Date”), the Company entered into and closed an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Electronic Purchase Agreement”) with Electronic Check Services Inc. (“Electronic Check”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from Electronic Check, including, but not limited to, assets associated with software that validates written check authenticity, in consideration of $75,000 paid on the Closing Date. In addition, the Company issued 250,000 shares of common stock of the Company (the “Electronic Shares”) and warrants to purchase 250,000 shares of common stock (the “Electronic Warrants”). The Electronic Warrants were assigned by Electronic Check to Dennis Winfrey, the shareholder of Electronic Check. The Electronic Warrants are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $2.70 per share and contain standard anti-dilution protection.
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On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Central Purchase Agreement”) with Central State Legal Services Inc. (“Central”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from Central, including, but not limited to, assets associated with the a system to recover funds from returned checks, in consideration of $25,000 paid on the Closing Date. Derron Winfrey, the COO of the Company, is a director and President of Electronic Check and Central. Derron Winfrey’s parents are the shareholders of Check and Central.
On or around November 10, 2017, UGopherServices experienced a suspension of operations on the terminals that the Company acquired in its acquisition on September 1, 2017 from RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC. Management of the Company believes that this shutdown came as a result of the decision of Paypal Holdings Inc. (“Paypal”) decision to suspend operations of TIO Networks (“TIO”), and appears to have affected all of TIO’s customers. TIO was acquired by Paypal in or around July 2017. Prior to the suspension, the Company received no notice from TIO, or from RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC, which sold the assets to UGopherServices, that the suspension would be taking place. Although the Company worked diligently to contain the fallout from the suspension of operations by TIO, the vast majority of the customers that were acquired as part of the transaction defected as a result. The subsequent acquisition of ECS was done partly to stem the customer defections, as many of the customers of UgopherServices sought the services of ECS. In doing so, the Company got many, though not all, of the customers back. On a combined basis, there are approximately 9,400 points of sale as a result of acquiring certain assets from both RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC and ECS.
The Company is currently in litigation with RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, its executives and other third parties, and wrote off a substantial portion of its investment in UgopherServices from September 1, 2017. The Company’s position is that it was defrauded by the Seller and certain third parties due to the lack of disclosure of TIO’s decision to suspend operations.
On September 4, 2018, the Company and Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (“Mobiquity”) entered an agreement pursuant to which the parties exchanged equity interest in each of the companies. In accordance with the agreement, the Company received 1,000 shares of Mobiquity’s restricted Series AAAA Preferred Stock (the “Mobiquity Preferred Stock”) in consideration of Company’s concurrent sale and issuance to Mobiquity of 10,000,000 shares of Company’s common stock. The shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock are convertible into an aggregate of up to 100,000,000 shares of Mobiquity common stock (the “Mobiquity Common Stock”) and 150,000,000 common stock purchase warrants (the “Mobiquity Warrants”). The Mobiquity Warrants shall have a term of 5-years from the date of grant and shall be exercisable at a price of $0.12 per share and the shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall not be convertible into shares of Mobiquity Common Stock and the Mobiquity Warrants shall not be contemporaneously granted until after Mobiquity’s Board of Directors and stockholders shall have increased the authorized number of shares of Mobiquity’s common stock to a number sufficient to accommodate a reserve in the Company’s favor of 250,000,000 shares of Mobiquity’s common stock. The Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall have immediate voting rights equal to the number of shares of Mobiquity Common Stock into which they may be converted, not including the shares of Mobiquity’s common stock underlying the Mobiquity Warrants. As a result of this transaction, the Company has an approximate 21% interest in Mobiquity.
On February 6, 2019, the Company entered into a letter agreement with Gopher Protocol Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsabilidad Limitada, a Costa Rican company (“Gopher CR”) and a 50% owned subsidiary of the Company, pursuant to which the Company sold 30,000,000 shares of Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (“Mobiquity”) to Gopher CR in the principal amount of $5,000,000 secured by all of the assets of Gopher CR payable with 10% interest on the two year anniversary.
GBT Technologies, S.A. (“GBT”)
On September 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Exclusive Intellectual Property License and Royalty Agreement (the “GBT License Agreement”) with GBT, a fully compliant and regulated cryptocurrency exchange platform that currently operates in Costa Rica as a decentralized cryptocurrency platform, pursuant to which, among other things, the Company granted to GBT an exclusive, royalty-bearing right and license relating intellectual property relating to systems and methods of converting electronic transmissions into digital currency as reflected in that certain patent filed with the United Stated Patent and Trademark Office on or about June 14, 2018 (EFS ID: 32893586; Application Number: 16008069; collectively, the “Digital Currently Technology”). Pursuant to the GBT License Agreement, the Company granted GBT an exclusive worldwide license to use the Digital Currency Technology to make, use, sell, lease or otherwise commercialize and dispose of products and devices utilizing the Digital Currently Technology.
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Under the terms of the GBT License Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive a royalty payment of 2% of gross revenue of each licensed product sold by GBT during the period starting in which revenue is first generated using the licensed products and continuing for five years thereafter. Upon signing the GBT License Agreement, GBT paid the Company $300,000, which is nonrefundable. The Company has recognized the $300,000 as revenue during the year ended December 31, 2018. Upon GBT making available for sale (the “Commercial Event”) an ICO (Initial Coin Offering) (the “Coin”), GBT will make a payment to the Company in the amount of $5,000,000. Further, upon the Commercial Event, GBT will grant the Company the ability to acquire 30% of the Coin at a 30% discount of such offering price of the Coin. The GBT License Agreement commenced as of the signing date and, unless terminated in accordance with the termination provisions of the GBT License Agreement, shall remain in force until the expiration of the patent pertaining to the Digital Currency Technology; provided that the right to use trade secrets shall survive the expiration of the GBT License Agreement provided the Company has not terminated. Prior to the signing of the GBT License Agreement, GBT advanced $200,000 to the Company, which the parties have agreed will be applied toward the $5,000,000 fee when it becomes due. The $200,000 is recorded as unearned revenue at December 31, 2018 in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. As of the date of this filing, the Commercial Event has not yet occurred.
On March 9, 2019 the Company entered into a Non-Binding Letter of Intent for general terms upon which our respective Board of Directors or similar governing body will adopt a definitive share exchange agreement (the “Agreement”), and recommend that the GBT Shareholders enter into the Agreement whereby Gopher will purchase all of the outstanding securities of GBT Technologies (the “GBT Securities”) from the GBT Shareholders for consideration consisting of shares of the Company. This LOI sets forth the basic terms of the share purchase transaction and reflects the current, good faith intentions of Gopher, GBT Technologies and the GBT Shareholders with respect thereto. No assurance can be given that a definitive agreement will be entered into, that the appropriate governing bodies including the Company’s Board of Directors will approve such transactions, that the proposed transactions contemplated above will be consummated, or that GBT will be able to obtain adequate funds needed to fund its business plan.
Latinex
On January 8, 2019, the Company entered into a Stock Pledge Agreement with Latin American Exchange Latinex Casa de Cambio, S.A., a Costa Rica corporation (“Latinex”). Latinex is a fully licensed and Central Bank regulated “Currency Exchange” in Costa Rica. In order to provide that Latinex may maintain its required regulatory capital as required by various regulators, the Company has pledged restricted shares of its common stock valued at $7.5 million for a term of three years in consideration of an annual payment of $375,000 paid in quarterly installments of $93,750. In lieu of cash payment, Latinex may pay the Company in virtual currency of WISE Network S.A. valued at a 50% discount of its offering price of $10 per token. In the event Latinex’s required capital has decreased below $5,000,000, Latinex is permitted to sell the pledged shares of common stock only in an amount to ensure that Latinex can satisfy the required capital levels. The Company must consent to such sale of the shares of common stock, if at all, which may not be unreasonably withheld. Upon expiration of the agreement, the remaining shares of common stock shall be returned to the Company free and clear of all liens.
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Results of Operations:
Year Ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017
A comparison of the statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 is as follows:
| Years Ended December 31, | Change | |||||||||||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | $ | % | |||||||||||||
| Sales | $ | 51,569,605 | $ | 9,192,354 | $ | 42,377,251 | 461.0 | % | ||||||||
| Cost of goods sold | 49,676,764 | 8,651,804 | 41,024,960 | 474.2 | % | |||||||||||
| Gross profit | 1,892,841 | 540,550 | 1,352,291 | 250.2 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses | 47,698,341 | 7,845,344 | 39,852,997 | 508.0 | % | |||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (45,805,500 | ) | (7,304,794 | ) | (38,500,706 | ) | 527.1 | % | ||||||||
| Other expense | (5,964,170 | ) | (2,982,496 | ) | (2,981,674 | ) | 100.0 | % | ||||||||
| Loss before provision for income taxes | (51,769,670 | ) | (10,287,290 | ) | (41,482,380 | ) | 403.2 | % | ||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (51,769,670 | ) | $ | (10,287,290 | ) | $ | (41,482,380 | ) | 403.2 | % | |||||
Sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 were $51,569,605, compared to $9,192,354 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The sales from 2017 to 2018 are not comparable since the increase of $42,377,251 or 461.0% is almost all the result of sales from the acquisitions of RWJ in September 2017 and ECS in March 2018. The 2017 sales only include four months of sales from the RWJ acquisition, while the 2018 sales include twelve and ten months, respectively, of sales from RWJ and ECS. Sales recognized from the RWJ and the ECS acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2018 were $22,392,118 and $28,697,487, respectively, compared to $9,012,354 and $0, respectively, for the same period in 2017. Sales from the year ended December 31, 2018 also included a licensing fee of $300,000 generated by Gopher.
Our gross margins for the year ended December 31, 2018 were 3.7%, compared to 5.9% for the same period in 2017. The decrease in due to the sales generated by the ECS assets have a lower gross margin.
Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 were $47,698,341, compared to $7,845,344 for the same period in 2017. The increase of $39,852,997 or 508% is due to i) a charge of $11,750,000 during 2018 related to the buyout of a profit participation agreement with Guardian LLC; ii) a charge of $7,132,286 during 2018 related to the impairment of assets associated with the RWJ acquisition; iii) additional operating cost for the newly-acquired acquisitions; and iv) an increase of $15,973,456 for the value of common stock and warrants issued to consultants and employees for services rendered during the year ended December 31, 2018.
Other expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $5,964,170, an increase of $2,981,674 from $2,982,496 for the same period in 2017. The increase is principally due to an increase in amortization of debt discounts and interest and financing costs due to the increase in new convertible notes in 2018, as well as an increase in the change in fair value of the derivative liability, offset by unrealized gains on a marketable equity security.
Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $51,769,670 compared to $10,287,290 for the same period in 2017 due to the factors described above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our cash was $1,863,510 and $1,305,062 at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Cash used in operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2018 was $4,651,829, compared to cash provided by operating activities of $228,711 during the same period in 2017. Significant differences exist between the periods, including common stock and warrants issued for services, amortization of intangible assets, amortization of debt discount, financing costs, impairment of assets and unrealized gain on marketable equity securities. Our working capital position worsened going from a working capital deficit of $1,060,506 at December 31, 2017 to a working capital deficit of $3,797,666 at December 31, 2018, principally as a result of the increase in the derivative liability, an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses and the issuance of a note payable related to the acquisition of certain assets RWJ that is presented as a current liability at December 31, 2018. Cash flows used in investing activities were $479,979 during the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to $78,352 for the same period in 2017. The increase is due to the amount paid for acquisitions and the amount paid as an acquisition deposit for Spare CS, Inc., which was offset by a decrease in the purchase of property and equipment. Cash from financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $5,690,256, compared to $1,149,607 for the same period in 2017. The increase is due to the issuance of a convertible notes and the sale of common stock in 2018.
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We sustained net losses of $51,769,670 for the year ended December 31, 2018. In addition, we had a working capital deficit of $3,797,666 and accumulated deficit of $66,151,332 at December 31, 2018. We recently purchased the assets of RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC in 2017, and ECS Prepaid LLC, Electronic Check Services, Inc. and Central States Legal Services, Inc. in 2018. RWJ and ECS have historically generated significant revenues which we expect to continue in the future. In addition, during the last half of 2018 and the first few months of 2019, the Company has raised approximately $9,500,000 of net proceeds through the issuance of convertible debt and notes payable (see discussion below). The Company will need to raise additional capital in the future of which there is no guarantee that the Company will be able to successfully raise such capital on acceptable terms. With the cash flow from operations from the recent acquisitions, the cash received from recent convertible debt and notes payable, the sale of marketable equity securities and additional cash anticipated to be raised in the near future, we believe we will have sufficient cash to meet our obligations for the next 12 months.
On December 3, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) with an otherwise unaffiliated third-party institutional investor, pursuant to which the Company issued a Senior Secured Redeemable Convertible Debenture (the “Debenture”) in the aggregate face value of $8,340,000. The Debenture has a maturity date two years from the issuance date and the Company has agreed to pay compounded interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Debenture at the rate equal to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus 2% per annum (Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus 12% per annum upon the occurrence of a Triggering Event). Interest is payable on the date the applicable principal is converted or on maturity. The interest must be paid in cash and, in certain circumstances, may be paid in shares of common stock. In connection with the issuance of the Debenture and pursuant to the terms of the SPA, the Company issued a Common Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire up to 22,500,000 shares of common stock for a term of three years (the “Warrant”) on a cash-only basis at an exercise price of $1.00 per share with respect to 5,000,000 warrant shares, $0.75 with respect to 7,500,000 warrant shares and $0.50 with respect to 10,000,000 warrant shares. Pursuant to the terms of the SPA, the investor agreed to tender to the Company the sum of $7,500,000, of which the Company received the sum of $4,500,000 as of the closing and is to receive three additional tranches of $1,000,000 on the first, second, and third monthly anniversaries of the closing. As of the closing, the face value of the Debenture was $5,004,000.00; as of the first month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $6,116,000.00; as of the second month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $7,228,000.00; and as of the third month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $8,340,000.00. As of the closing, the number of warrant shares was 13,500,000; as of the first month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of warrant shares is to increase to 16,500,000; as of the second month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of Warrant Shares is to increase to 19,500,000; as of the third month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of Warrant Shares is to increase to 22,500,000.
On February 27, 2019, Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”), a Nevada corporation, entered into a note purchase agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) with Iliad Research and Trading, L.P. (“Iliad”), pursuant to which the Company issued a promissory note for the original principal amount of $2,325,000 (the “Note”). Iliad gave consideration of $2,025,000 for the Note. The outstanding balance of the Note is to be paid on the one-year anniversary of the issuance of the Note. Interest on the Note accrues at the rate of 10% per annum compounding daily. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Note, the Company may prepay all or any portion of the outstanding balance of the Note at any time in an amount in cash equal to 120% of the amount repaid. In connection with transactions that generate less than $1,000,000 in proceeds, the Company has agreed to not issue any debt instrument or incurrence of any debt other than trade payables in the ordinary course of business, any securities or agreements to sell common stock with anti-dilution or price reset/reduction features or any securities that are or may be become convertible or exercisable into common stock with a price that varies with the market price of the common stock (collectively, “Restricted Issuance Transaction”). The outstanding balance of the Note will be increased by 5% in the event the Company enters into a Restricted Issuance Transaction that is approved by Iliad.
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on the Company’s financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.
Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
Our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of our financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires us to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, the reported amounts and classification of revenues and expenses during the periods presented, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis and material changes in these estimates or assumptions could occur in the future. Changes in estimates are recorded on the period in which they become known. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances and at that time, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily-apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates if past experience or other assumptions do not turn out to be substantially accurate.
We believe that the accounting policies described below are critical to understanding our business, results of operations, and financial condition because they involve significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements. An accounting is deemed to be critical if it requires a judgment or accounting estimate to be made based on assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain, and if different estimates that could have been used, or if changes in the accounting estimates that are reasonably likely to occur periodically, could materially impact our financial statements. Other significant accounting policies, primarily those with lower levels of uncertainty than those discussed below, are also critical to understanding our financial statements. The notes to our financial statements contain additional information related to our accounting policies and should be read in conjunction with this discussion.
Presentation of Financial Statements
The accompanying financial statements include the accounts of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
Accounts Receivable
The Company grants credit to establishments (such as convenient stores) who sell the Company’s products under credit terms that it believes are customary in the industry and does not require collateral to support customer receivables. The Company currently does not provide an allowance for doubtful collections, which is based upon a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information, and existing economic conditions. Normal receivable terms vary from 7-30 days after the issuance of the invoice and typically would be considered past due when the term expires. Delinquent receivables are written off based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer.
Marketable Equity Securities
The Company accounts for marketable equity securities in accordance with ASC Topic 321, Investments – equity securities. Marketable equity securities are reported at fair value based on quotations available on securities exchanges with any unrealized gain or loss being reported as a component of other income (expense) on the statement of operations. The portion of marketable equity security expected to be sold within twelve months of the balance sheet date is reported as a current asset.
Revenue Recognition
ASU No. 2014-09 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“Topic 606”), became effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The Company ’ s revenue recognition disclosure reflects its updated accounting policies that are affected by this new standard. The Company applied the “modified retrospective” transition method for open contracts for the implementation of Topic 606. As sales are and have been primarily from IT services, sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation, and the Company has no significant post-delivery obligations, this new standard did not result in a material recognition of revenue on the Company ’ s accompanying consolidated financial statements for the cumulative impact of applying this new standard. The Company made no adjustments to its previously-reported total revenues, as those periods continue to be presented in accordance with its historical accounting practices under Topic 605, Revenue Recognition .
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Revenue from providing IT services, sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation services are recognized under Topic 606 in a manner that reasonably reflects the delivery of its services and products to customers in return for expected consideration and includes the following elements:
| ● | executed contracts with the Company ’ s customers that it believes are legally enforceable; |
| ● | identification of performance obligations in the respective contract; |
| ● | determination of the transaction price for each performance obligation in the respective contract; |
| ● | allocation the transaction price to each performance obligation; and |
| ● | recognition of revenue only when the Company satisfies each performance obligation. |
These five elements, as applied to each of the revenue categories, is summarized below:
| ● | IT services - revenue is recorded on a monthly basis as services are provided; |
| ● | Sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation – revenue is recognized at the time of sale to the customer; and |
| ● | License fees and Royalties – revenue is recognized based on the terms of the agreement with its customer. |
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company evaluates all of its agreements to determine if such instruments have derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at its fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the statements of operations. For stock-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses a weighted average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to value the derivative instruments at inception and on subsequent valuation dates. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is evaluated at the end of each reporting period. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether or not net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s only derivative financial instrument was an embedded conversion feature associated with convertible notes payable due to certain provisions that allow for a change in the conversion price based on a percentage of the Company’s stock price at the date of conversion.
Fair Value Measurements
The Company applies the provisions of ASC 820-10, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” ASC 820-10 defines fair value, and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement that enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows:
| ● | Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
| ● | Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. |
| ● | Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. |
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For certain financial instruments, the carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for cash and current liabilities, including convertible notes payable, each qualify as financial instruments and are a reasonable estimate of their fair values because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rate of interest.
The Company uses Level 2 inputs for its valuation methodology for derivative liabilities as their fair values were determined by using the Black-Scholes-Merton pricing model based on various assumptions. The Company’s derivative liabilities are adjusted to reflect fair value at each period end, with any increase or decrease in the fair value being recorded in results of operations as adjustments to fair value of derivatives.
Dividends
The Company has not yet adopted any policy regarding payment of dividends. No cash dividends have been paid or declared since the Date of Inception.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
As a Smaller Reporting Company, the Company is not required to include the disclosure under this Item.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The information required by Item 8 appears at Page F-1, which appears after the signature page to this report.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Previous independent registered public accounting firm
On October 24, 2017 (the “Termination Date”), Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”) terminated Anton & Chia, LLP (the “Former Auditor”) as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company.
Other than an explanatory paragraph included in the Former Auditor’s audit report for the Registrant’s fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 relating to the uncertainty of the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the audit reports of the Former Auditor on the Company’s financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 did not contain an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, and such reports were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principle.
During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 and through the filing of the relevant Form 8-K, the Company has not had any disagreements with the Former Auditor on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the Former Auditor’s satisfaction, would have caused them to make reference thereto in their reports on the Company’s financial statements for such years.
During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 and through the Termination Date, there were no reportable events, as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.
New independent registered public accounting firm
On or around October 24, 2017 (the “Engagement Date”), the Company engaged BF Borgers CPA PC (“New Auditor”) as its independent registered public accounting firm for the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2017. The decision to engage the New Auditor as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm was approved by the Company’s Board of Directors.
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During the two most recent fiscal years and through the Engagement Date, the Company has not consulted with the New Auditor regarding either:
1. application of accounting principles to any specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Company’s financial statements, and neither a written report was provided to the Company nor oral advice was provided that the New Auditor concluded was an important factor considered by the Company in reaching a decision as to the accounting, auditing or financial reporting issue; or
2. any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement (as defined in Regulation S-K, Item 304(a)(1)(iv) and the related instructions) or reportable event (as defined in Regulation S-K, Item 304(a)(1)(v)).
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of the end of the applicable period to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
As a smaller reporting company, with revenues stemming from recent acquisitions and a lack of profitability, the Company does not have the resources to install dedicated staff with deep expertise in all facets of SEC disclosure and GAAP compliance, and does not employ enough accounting staff to have proper separation of duties. As is the case with many smaller reporting companies, the Company will continue to consult with its external auditors and attorneys as it relates to new accounting principles and changes to SEC disclosure requirements. In order to correct this material weakness, the Company engaged a Chief Financial Officer with expertise in SEC disclosure and GAAP compliance. The Company has found that this approach worked well in the past and believes it to be the most cost-effective solution available for the foreseeable future. The Company will conduct a review of existing sign-off and review procedures as well as document control protocols for critical accounting spreadsheets. The Company will also increase management’s review of key financial documents and records.
As a smaller reporting company, the Company does not have the resources to fund sufficient staff to ensure a complete segregation of responsibilities within the accounting function. However, Company management does review, and will increase the review of, financial statements on a monthly basis, and the Company’s external auditor conducts reviews on a quarterly basis. These actions, in addition to the improvements identified above, will minimize any risk of a potential material misstatement occurring.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2018, that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Not applicable
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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERANCE
Executive Officers and Directors
Below are the names and certain information regarding Gopher Protocol’s executive officers and directors.
| Name | Age | Title | ||
| Douglas Davis | 60 | Chief Executive Officer | ||
| Michael Murray | 49 | President and Director | ||
| Dr. Danny Rittman | 56 | Chief Technology Officer | ||
| Kevin Pickard | 55 | Chief Financial Officer | ||
| Mansour Khatib | 56 | Chief Marketing Officer and Director | ||
| Robert Yaspan | 73 | Chairman of the Board of Directors | ||
| Judit Nagypal | 49 | Director | ||
| Ned Siegel | 67 | Director | ||
| Eva Bitter | 46 | Director | ||
| Mitchell Tavera | 60 | Director | ||
| Muhammed Khilji | 54 | Director |
Douglas Davis is a seasoned executive with management experience across many areas including M&A, capital raising, sales and business development. Since 2010, Mr. Davis has served as the CEO of Bitspeed LLC, an extreme file transfer software and appliance solution. In addition, since 2001, Mr. Davis has served as the Managing Partner of CoBuilder, Inc., a consulting organization providing services associated with increasing efficiencies, including market penetration and revenues, for large and small corporate entities. Mr. Davis received an AB Political Science from Stanford University and an MBA (Concentration in Finance and Strategic Management) from UCLA Anderson Graduate School of Management.
Michael Murray is a licensed and UST Certified NMLS Originator, a licensed mortgage banker, a real estate broker and a licensed general contractor. From 1998 through August 2012, Mr. Murray held the position of Broker and DRE Officer with Home Plus Realty, Inc. From August 2012 through May 2013, Mr. Murray held the positions of FHA Production and Save Team with Cashcall Mortgage, Inc. and since May 2013 to the present, Mr. Murray has been self-employed as a Consultant and Managing Broker. Mr. Murray received an M.A. in Public Relations from California Baptist University in May 2014 and a B.A. in Political Science from California Baptist University in May 2013.
Mr. Murray is an officer and shareholder of Hermes Roll LLC (“Hermes”), a Nevada limited liability company to be formed. On March 4, 2015, the Company entered into a Territorial License Agreement with Hermes, which is the basis for the Company’s current operations. On June 16, 2015, the Company and Hermes entered into an Amended and Restated License Agreement whereby the license was expanded globally, the Company agreed to invest $5,000,000 into Hermes for working capital and the Company was provided with an option to acquire 100% of the outstanding membership interest of Hermes in consideration of 20,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company through June 16, 2016. The Company and Hermes agreed that the ability to acquire 100% of the membership interest of Hermes will be reduced on a pro-rata basis contingent upon the amount of working capital invested by the Company. For example, in the event the Company provides Hermes with $2,500,000 in working capital, then the Company will be entitled to acquire 50% of the membership interest of Hermes in consideration of 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company.
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Mr. Murray is President of the Company, and a Director.
Dr. Danny Rittman is a veteran software architect and integrated circuit technology expert with over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. From 2014 through the present, Dr. Rittman has served as the CTO and as a director of the Company, leading the Company’s technological direction and managing teams of mobile software developers. From 2012, through 2014, Dr. Rittman served as a Senior Integrated Circuit Consultant for Qualcomm / Max Linear, managing teams of integrated circuit designers within the mobile technology arena. From 2007 through 2012, Dr. Rittman served as the Founder and CTO of Micrologic Design Automation, leading the company’s technological direction, including architecture, design and development of EDA software tools. From 2002 through 2007, Dr. Rittman served as an Integrated Circuit CAD / Software Senior Consultant for IBM, managing IC back-end projects and leading back-end CAD and QA software tool development and implementation. From 1995 through 2002, Dr. Rittman served as the Founder and VP of R&D for Bindkey Technologies, leading the company’s technological direction, research and development of EDA software tools for integrated circuits and back-end design. Dr. Rittman received a BS in Electrical Engineering - VLSI Design from the University of Bridgeport, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1992; a MS in Computer Science - VLSI Design, Specializing in Automation Algorithms, from La Salle University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1996; and a PhD in Computer Science - VLSI Design, specializing in EDA Concepts and Algorithms, from La Salle University, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 1998.
Kevin Pickard is a certified public accountant with experience providing management consulting services for small to medium sized companies, including review and preparation of filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Mr. Pickard is the owner of Kevin F. Pickard, CPA, PC which he founded in 1998. Prior to that, from August 1996 to July 1998, Mr. Pickard was a partner of Singer Lewak Greenbaum & Goldstein, LLP, where he co-managed the accounting its securities industry practice group. He was employed as a Business Assurance Manager of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP (formerly, Coopers & Lybrand, LLP) in various offices from September 1987 to July 1993 and from April 1994 to August 1996, where he focused on auditing companies in insurance, high-tech and industries. Mr. Pickard holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Accountancy from Brigham Young University. Mr. Pickard is currently a licensed Certified Public Accountant in North Carolina and California.
From 2009 through 2012, Mansour Khatib served as the CEO and CFO of The Merchandise Company, located in Long Beach, California. From 2012 through the present, Mr. Khatib has served as a U.S. Business and Marketing Sales Representative for KB Racking, located in Toronto, Canada. From May 2013 through July 2014, Mr. Khatib served as VP of Marketing for Sun Energy Partners, LLC, developing solar rooftop projects. From July 2014 through the present, Mr. Khatib has served as the CTO for New Energy Ventures, LLC, a company that is developing utility scale projects in New Jersey, California, and smaller projects in Mexico, the Caribbean and Peru. Mr. Khatib received B.A. in Economics from Fachhochschule Wuppertal in Wuppertal, Germany in 1988 and a Bachelors in Electro Engineering & Computer Technology from University Aachen in Aachen, Germany in 1985.
Since 2005, Muhammed Khilji, 54, has owned and operated Muhammad Khilji, CPA, a business accounting and tax advisory service. Mr. Khilji is engaged in providing advisory services to small business clients. He has been serving numerous high net worth individuals , professionals, as well as entrepreneurs. He is involved in consulting clients in the areas of strategic business management , sales and marketing , retirement planning, asset protection , financial restructuring and bankruptc y. Mr. Khilji tax compliance experience spans over large corporations to multi-state partnerships. Mr. Khilji has also served as contract CFO for a number of companies. From 2004 to 2005, Mr. Khilji served as a Senior Manager in the Financial Services Group of KPMG and from 2002 to 2004 as a Senior Manager with the Corporate Tax Group at Waterhouse Cooper. Prior to 2002, Mr. Khilji was a Senior Manager with the Corporate Tax Advisory Group at Arthur Anderson. Mr. Khilji has been licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in California since 2002 and graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1993 with a Master of Business Administration Finance and Marketing and in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science Finance.
Robert Yaspan , age 73, has owned and operated Law Offices of Robert M. Yaspan since 1997 where has focused his practice on business reorganizations and real property law. Mr. Yaspan received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Chicago in 1968 and a Juris Doctorate from University of Southern California in 1971. Mr. Yaspan is the manager of REKO Holdings LLC, a significant shareholder of the Company.
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Judit Nagypal , age 48, has extensive experience in human resources and business, with multicultural understanding coming from diverse international positions with over 18 years of successful track record in field and headquarters positions, both in specialist and generalist roles. Since 2013, Ms. Nagypal has held various positions in Microsoft including HRD Leadership Development and Talent Management from 2013 to 2015, Independent Software Vendor Acquisition Lead from 2015 to 2016 and Independent Software Vendor Go-To-Market Lead from 2016 to present. Prior to Microsoft, Mr. Nagypal held positions with AXA Group, Kraft Biscuits and Danone Group. Ms. Nagypal received a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resources Management from Middlesex University in 2002, a Law Degree from Eotvos Lorand University in 1998 and a Masters in Economic Sciences from Budapest University of Economics in 1994.
Ned L. Siegel , 67, has had a long and distinguished career as a senior U.S. government official and businessman. He was appointed by then President George W. Bush as the U.S. Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas from October 2007 to January 2009. He was also appointed by President Bush to serve under Ambassador John R. Bolton at the United Nations in New York, serving as the Senior Advisor to the U.S. Mission and as the U.S. representative to the 61st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Prior to his ambassadorship, he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). In addition to his public service, Ambassador Siegel has over 30 years of entrepreneurial successes. Presently, he serves as President of The Siegel Group, a multi-disciplined international business management advisory firm specializing in real estate, energy, utilities, infrastructure, financial services, oil and gas and cyber and secure technology. Ambassador Siegel also serves on the Board of Directors and Advisory Boards of other numerous public and private companies, and private equity groups. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Connecticut in 1973 and received a juris doctorate from the Dickinson School of Law in 1976. In December 2014, he received an honorary degree of Doctor of Business Administration from the University of South Carolina. Mr. Siegel has previously served as a member of the Board of Directors of Healthwarehouse.com, Inc. from June 2013 to September 2016, PositiveID Corporation from February 2011 to the present, Notis Global, Inc. from April 2014 to the present, Viscount Systems from April 2013 to the present and Baltia Air Lines, Inc. (dba USGlobal Airways) from June 2017 to present .
Since 2012 to the present, Eva Bitter has served as Business Unit Leader for Rehab zRt. Prior to 2012, Ms. Bitter served in various sales and marketing roles with Reckitt Benckiser, Colgate Palmolive Hungary and Kraft Foods Hungary. Ms. Bitter received a degree in International Relations from the College for Foreign Trade, Budapest in 1993 and a degree in External Economies from the University of Economic Sciences, Budapest in 1996.
From 1978 through June 2017, Mitchell Tavera has served as a member of the El Segundo Police Department in various capacities from Patrol Cadet, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and culminating in his appointment as Chief of Police which role he held from April 2010 through June 2017. Following Mr. Tavera’s retirement from the El Segundo Police Department, in November 2018, he joined Elite Interactive Solutions as Law Enforcement Liaison.
Family Relationships
There are no family relationships among our directors and executive officers. There is no arrangement or understanding between or among our executive officers and directors pursuant to which any director or officer was or is to be selected as a director or officer. None of our directors or executive officers have had direct or indirect material interest in any transaction or proposed transaction, in which the Company was or is a proposed participant, exceeding $120,000.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
To our knowledge, during the last ten years, none of our directors and executive officers has:
| ☐ | Had a bankruptcy petition filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner or executive officer either at the time of the bankruptcy or within two years prior to that time. |
| ☐ | Been convicted in a criminal proceeding or been subject to a pending criminal proceeding, excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses. |
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| ☐ | Been subject to any order, judgment or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting his involvement in any type of business, securities or banking activities. |
| ☐ | Been found by a court of competent jurisdiction (in a civil action), the SEC, or the Commodities Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended or vacated. |
| ☐ |
Been the subject to, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reverse, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization, any registered entity, or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member.
|
Corporate governance
On December 17, 2015, the Company established a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, a Compensation Committee and an Audit Committee (collectively, the “Committees”) and approved and adopted charters to govern each of the Committees.
In connection with the establishment of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, Compensation Committee and Audit Committee, the Board of Directors of the Company appointed members to each such committee. Currently, all three committees are comprised of at least three (3) directors meeting the requirements set forth in each applicable charter. The membership of these three standing committees of the Board of Directors of the Company is as follows:
| Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee | Compensation Committee | Audit Committee | ||
|
Ambassador Ned L. Siegel (Chairman) Judit Nagypal (Member) Mitchell Tavera (Member) |
Judit Nagypal (Chairworman) Ambassador Ned L. Siegel (Member) Mitchell Tavera (Member) |
Muhammed Khilji (Chairman) Ambassador Ned L. Siegel (Member) Eva Bitter (Member) |
Agreements with Officers and Directors
On April 22, 2015, Michael Murray was appointed by the Company as the Chairman of the Board of Directors, CEO, and President of the Company. On March 4, 2015, the Company entered into a Territorial License Agreement with Hermes, which is the basis for the Company’s current operations. Mr. Murray is the owner of 9,900 shares of Series D Preferred Stock of the Company that is convertible at Mr. Murray’s election into 9,900,000 shares of common stock. During 2016 Mr. Murray has converted all of his Series D Preferred Stock into common shares of the Company.
On June 30, 2015, the Company appointed Dr. Danny Rittman as Chief Technical Officer and a board member. On April 6, 2018, the Company and Danny Rittman, Chief Technology Officer and a Director of the Company, agreed to amend his employment agreement pursuant to which he will receive salary at the rate of $250,000 annually payable in equal increments of $15,000 per month. An additional $70,000 shall be payable within 15 days of the end of the calendar year. On September 14, 2018, the Company and Dr. Rittman entered into a letter agreement confirming that the Company is the owner of all intellectual property developed by Dr. Rittman relating to the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, including a global platform with both mobile and fixed solutions, commencing June 16, 2015 and continuing until Dr. Rittman’s employment agreement is terminated.
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On April 16, 2016 (the “Effective Date”), Mansour Khatib and the Company entered into an Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Mansour Khatib agreed to serve as the Chief Marketing Officer of the Company. Mr. Mansour Khatib was also appointed as a director of the Company on the Effective Date. Pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Khatib will receive an annual salary of $100,000 upon the Company generating $1,000,000 in revenue during any three (3) month period. There is no understanding or arrangement between Mr. Khatib and any other person pursuant to which he was appointed as an executive officer and director. Mr. Khatib does not have any family relationship with any director, executive officer or person nominated or chosen by us to become a director or an executive officer. Mr. Khatib has not had direct or indirect material interest in any transaction or proposed transaction, in which the Company was or is a proposed participant, exceeding $120,000.
Effective August15, 2016, the Employment Agreement of Mansour Khatib, our CMO, was amended and restated as follows:
Upon the Company generating $1,000,000 in revenue during any three (3) month period (the “Threshold Requirement”), the Executive will receive salary at the rate of $100,000 annually (the “Base Salary”); provided, however, that that Company shall pay to Executive $5,000 per month (the “Monthly Salary Advance”) commencing on August 15, 2016, which such Monthly Salary Advance shall be an advance on the Base Salary and shall continue to be paid to Executive until such time that the Company launches its Guardian Patch technology into the consumer markets. Once the Threshold Requirement is met, the Base Salary will be payable in equal increments not less often than monthly in arrears and in any event consistent with the Company’s payroll policy and practices. The Base Salary of the Executive may from time to time be increased, but not decreased, by the Board, in its absolute discretion, including potential bonuses.”
On or around September 7, 2017, and in connection with the purchase of certain assets from RWJ Advanced Marketing LLC, the Company and Mr. Bauer entered into an Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Bauer was retained as Chief Executive Officer for a term of one year, subject to an automatic extension, unless terminated, in consideration of a base salary of $250,000 and a bonus of 10% of net profit generated by the assets acquired. Mr. Bauer was also appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company. In May 2018, Mr. Bauer resigned as an executive officer and director of the Company. The Company and Mr. Bauer entered into a Consulting Agreement for a period of one year for compensation of $15,000 per month to provide services associated with prepaid financial services, which was subsequently terminated. Mr. Bauer is currently an adversary in a lawsuit against the Company in which the Company has answered and cross-sued the plaintiffs.
On April 16, 2018, Kevin F. Pickard was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company (at the same time, Mr. Bauer resigned his position as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company). The Company and Mr. Pickard entered into an Executive Retention Agreement dated April 16, 2018 pursuant to which Mr. Pickard agreed to serve as Chief Financial Officer in consideration of an annual salary of $120,000. The Company also issued Mr. Pickard 250,000 shares of common stock and granted Mr. Pickard a Stock Option to acquire 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $2.80 per share for a period of five years. The Stock Options vest in tranches of 100,000 shares commencing on the one year anniversary and continuing thereafter on an annual basis or in full in the event of a change of control. The Company and Mr. Pickard also entered into an Indemnification Agreement. The employment of Mr. Pickard is at will and may be terminated at any time, with or without formal cause.
On April 25, 2018, Muhammad Khilji was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Mr. Khilji entered into an agreement pursuant to which he will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that he will one tine grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Mr. Khilji will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Khilji $5,000 per quarter.
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On May 17, 2018, Robert Yaspan, Judit Nagypal and Ambassador Ned L. Siegel were appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as directors of the Company. Mr. Yaspan will also serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Ms. Nagypal and Ambassador Siegel are considered independent directors and entered into agreements pursuant to which each will serve as a director. The director agreements provide that each will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. Mr. Yaspan, in consideration for serving as Chairman of the Board, entered into an agreement providing a one-time grant of 250,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 250,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. Each director will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Yaspan, Ms. Nagypal and Ambassador Siegel $5,000 per quarter.
On May 17, 2018, Mansour Khatib, Chief Marketing Officer and director of the Company, was engaged as Interim Chief Executive Officer to fill the vacancy resulting from Gregory Bauer’s resignation as Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company. In addition, Michael Murray, a director of the Company, was engaged as President of the Company. Around the same time, the Company and Mr. Bauer entered into a Consulting Agreement for a period of one year for compensation of $15,000 per month to provide services associated with prepaid financial services. The Consulting Agreement was terminated on or around December 1, 2018, and ceased at the end of 2018. Mr. Bauer is currently an adversary in a lawsuit against the Company in which the Company has answered and cross-sued the plaintiffs.
On June 18, 2018, Eva Bitter was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Ms. Bitter entered into an agreement pursuant to which she will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that she will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Ms. Bitter will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Ms. Bitter $5,000 per quarter.
On July 23, 2018, Douglas L. Davis was appointed by the Company to serve as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Mansour Khatib resigned as Interim Chief Executive Officer but will continue to serve as Chief Marketing Officer and Director. The Company and Mr. Davis entered into an Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2018 pursuant to which Mr. Davis agreed to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer in consideration of an annual salary of $120,000. The Company also issued Mr. Davis 300,000 shares of common stock subject to a lock-up/leakout provision. The employment of Mr. Davis is for a period of six months and may be terminated at any time, with or without formal cause, on ten days’ notice.
On January 1, 2019, the Company and Douglas Davis entered into an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Davis was retained as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Davis has served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since July 2018. The term of Mr. Davis’ employment is for two years through January 1, 2021. Mr. Davis will be entitled to an annual base salary of $250,000, which shall be increased to $400,000 upon the Company uplisting to a national exchange. Mr. Davis is also be entitled to the issuance of Stock Options to acquire an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company, exercisable for five years, subject to vesting. The options will be earned and vested (i) with respect to 2,000,000 shares of common stock on the date hereof, (ii) 500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful dual list of the Company on an international exchange such as SIX Zurich Stock Exchange or Euronext, (iii) 1,500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful up listing to a national exchange such as the Nasdaq, NYSE Euronext, TSX, AMEX or other, and (iv) with respect to 500,000 shares of common stock at each of the six (6) month anniversaries (July 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020). The exercise price of such options shall be the closing price of the Company on the date prior to such event.
On July 31, 2018, Mitchell K. Tavera was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Mr. Tavera entered into an agreement pursuant to which he will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that he will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Mr. Tavera will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Tavera $5,000 per quarter.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, requires our directors and executive officers and persons who own more than 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of our common stock to file reports of initial ownership of common stock and other equity securities and subsequent changes in that ownership with the SEC. Officers, directors and greater than ten percent stockholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. To our knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies of such reports furnished to us and written representations that no other reports were required, during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than 10% beneficial owners were complied with.
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Code of Ethics
We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all officers, directors and employees. The Company will provide to any person without charge a copy of such code of ethics upon written request to the Company at its registered offices.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following tables set forth all compensation paid to our officers for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.
Summary Compensation Table
| Name and principal Position | Year | Salary | Bonus | Stock Awards | Option Awards | Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation | Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings | All Other Compensation | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Douglas Davis | 2018 | $ | 72,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 610,500 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 682,500 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Chief Executive Officer | 2017 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Danny Rittman | 2018 | $ | 183,500 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 183,500 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Chief Technology Officer | 2017 | $ | 144,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 144,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Michael Murray | 2018 | $ | 50,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 50,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
| President | 2017 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 1,471,475 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 1,471,475 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Mansour Khatib | 2018 | $ | 145,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 145,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Chief Marketing Officer | 2017 | $ | 60,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 60,000 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Kevin Pickard | 2018 | $ | 85,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 732,500 | $ | 215,965 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 1,033,465 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Chief Financial Officer | 2017 | $ | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Greg Bauer (1) | 2018 | $ | 203,333 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 203,333 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Former Chief Executive Officer | 2017 | $ | 83,333 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 83,333 | ||||||||||||||||||
The compensation discussed herein addresses all compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to our named executive officer.
There are no other stock option plans, retirement, pension, or profit sharing plans for the benefit of our sole officer and director other than as described herein.
| (1) | Resigned as the Chief Executive Officer in May 2018, but remained as a consultant to the Company through the end of the year at a cost of $15,000 per month. |
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Director Compensation
The following table sets forth all compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to the non-employee directors in 2018 and 2017 for their service as directors:
| Name | Year | Fees Earned or Paid | Stock Awards | Option Awards | Non- Equity Incentive | All Other Compensation | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Robert Yaspan | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 762,500 | $ | 750,430 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,522,930 | ||||||||||||||
| Chairman of the Board | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Judit Nagypal | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 305,000 | $ | 300,172 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 615,172 | ||||||||||||||
| Director | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Ned L. Siegel | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 305,000 | $ | 300,172 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 615,172 | ||||||||||||||
| Director | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Eva Bitter | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 199,000 | $ | 195,079 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 404,079 | ||||||||||||||
| Director | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Mitchell Tavera | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 170,000 | $ | 166,384 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 346,384 | ||||||||||||||
| Director | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
| Muhammed Khilji | 2018 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 310,000 | $ | 305,121 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 625,121 | ||||||||||||||
| Director | 2017 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||||||
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
There are no outstanding equity awards outstanding at December 31, 2018 other than those disclosed above.
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of the Common Stock as of March 27, 2019 by (i) each person known by the Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding Common Stock; (ii) each director of the Company; (iii) each officer of the Company and (iv) all executive officers and directors as a group. Except as otherwise indicated below, each of the entities or persons named in the table has sole voting and investment powers with respect to all shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by it or him as set forth opposite its or his name.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of the Common Stock as of March 29, 2019 by (i) each person known by the Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding Common Stock; (ii) each director of the Company; (iii) each officer of the Company and (iv) all executive officers and directors as a group. Except as otherwise indicated below, each of the entities or persons named in the table has sole voting and investment powers with respect to all shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by it or him as set forth opposite its or his name.
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| Name of Beneficial Owner |
Common
Stock Beneficially Owned (1) |
Percentage
of Common Stock (1) |
||||||
| Michael D. Murray (2,4) | 10,900,000 | 5.16 | % | |||||
| Dr. Danny Rittman (4) | 9,900,000 | 4.77 | % | |||||
| Douglas Davis (5) | 2,300,000 | 1.10 | % | |||||
| Mansour Khatib (4) | 0 | 0.00 | % | |||||
| Kevin Pickard (5) | 350,000 | 0.17 | % | |||||
| Reko Holdings LLC | 69,321,000 | 33.42 | % | |||||
| Guardian Patch (7) | 16,500,000 | 7.62 | % | |||||
| Latinex Casa de Cambio | 20,026,702 | 9.66 | % | |||||
| Robert Yaspan (3) | 500,000 | 0.24 | % | |||||
| Ned Siegel (6) | 200,000 | 0.10 | % | |||||
| Judit Nagypal (6) | 200,000 | 0.10 | % | |||||
| Eva Bitter (6) | 200,000 | 0.10 | % | |||||
| Muhammed Khilji (6) | 200,000 | 0.10 | % | |||||
| Mitchell Tavera (6) | 200,000 | 0.10 | % | |||||
| Mobiquity Technologies, Inc. | 13,388,889 | 6.46 | % | |||||
| All Officers and Directors as a Group | 24,950,000 | 11.64 | % | |||||
| (1) | Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the Rule 13d-3(d)(1) of the Exchange Act, as amended and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, shares of common stock that an individual or group has a right to acquire within 60 days pursuant to the exercise of options or warrants are deemed to be outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of such individual or group, but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person shown in the table. The above is based on 207,409,616 shares of common stock outstanding as of March 27, 2019. |
| (2) | Mr. Murray is President of the company, and a Director. He holds a warrant for 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. |
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| (3) | Mr. Yaspan is the Chairman of the Board of Directors. He has 250,000 shares, and a warrant for 250,000 additional shares at an exercise price of $2.50. |
| (4) | Officer and Director of the Company. |
| (5) | Officer of the Company. |
| (6) | Director of the Company. Each director (except for the Chairman of the Board of Directors) has 100,000 shares, and a warrant on 100,000 shares at an exercise price of $2.50. |
| (7) | Guardian Patch holds 7,500,000 shares of common stock, and a warrant for 9,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. |
No Director, executive officer, affiliate or any owner of record or beneficial owner of more than 5% of any class of voting securities of the Company is a party adversary to the Company or has a material interest adverse to the Company.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
On April 6, 2018, the Company and Danny Rittman, Chief Technology Officer and a Director of the Company, agreed to amend his employment agreement pursuant to which he will receive salary at the rate of $250,000 annually payable in equal increments of $15,000 per month. An additional $70,000 shall be payable within 15 days of the end of the calendar year. On September 14, 2018, the Company and Dr. Rittman entered into a letter agreement confirming that the Company is the owner of all intellectual property developed by Dr. Rittman relating to the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, including a global platform with both mobile and fixed solutions, commencing June 16, 2015 and continuing until Dr. Rittman’s employment agreement is terminated.
On March 29, 2016, Gopher contributed all of its rights relating to its proprietary microchip that is within a sticky patch package (the “Patch”) to Guardian LLC in consideration of 50% of the profit generated by Guardian LLC (the “Joint Venture”). Guardian LLC was responsible for investing all needed funds for the purpose of developing the Patch and related products to the Patch. In addition, Guardian LLC was required to provide short term loans to Gopher on an as needed basis secured by Gopher’s economic interest in the Joint Venture. The Company provided IT services to Guardian LLC for a monthly fee. On August 30, 2018, Guardian Patch converted the 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock into 2,000,000 shares of common stock. On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Interest Purchase Agreement with Guardian, LLC pursuant to which the Company purchased Guardian LLC’s 50% interest in a joint venture (the “JV Interest”) previously entered between the parties in March 2016 covering the Guardian Patch, Puzpix and Epsilon. In consideration for the JV Interest, the Company issued Guardian 12,500,000 shares of common stock. During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company took a charge to earnings of $11,750,000 related to the purchase of Guardian LLC’s 50% JV Interest.
On April 16, 2016 (the “Effective Date”), Mansour Khatib and the Company entered into an Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Mansour Khatib agreed to serve as the Chief Marketing Officer of the Company. Mr. Mansour Khatib was also appointed as a director of the Company on the Effective Date. Pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement, Mr. Khatib will receive an annual salary of $100,000 upon the Company generating $1,000,000 in revenue during any three (3) month period.
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Effective August15, 2016, the Employment Agreement of Mansour Khatib, our CMO, was amended and restated as follows:
Upon the Company generating $1,000,000 in revenue during any three (3) month period (the “Threshold Requirement”), the Executive will receive salary at the rate of $100,000 annually (the “Base Salary”); provided, however, that that Company shall pay to Executive $5,000 per month (the “Monthly Salary Advance”) commencing on August 15, 2016, which such Monthly Salary Advance shall be an advance on the Base Salary and shall continue to be paid to Executive until such time that the Company launches its Guardian Patch technology into the consumer markets. Once the Threshold Requirement is met, the Base Salary will be payable in equal increments not less often than monthly in arrears and in any event consistent with the Company’s payroll policy and practices. The Base Salary of the Executive may from time to time be increased, but not decreased, by the Board, in its absolute discretion, including potential bonuses.”
On or around September 7, 2017, Greg Bauer became Chief Executive Officer of the Company. At the same time, Michael Murray resigned as CEO, although he remains an investor and a Director of the Company. At closing, the Company and Mr. Bauer entered into an Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Bauer was retained as Chief Executive Officer for a term of one year, subject to an automatic extension, unless terminated, in consideration of a base salary of $250,000 and a bonus of 10% of net profit generated by the assets acquired. Mr. Bauer was also appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Bauer is currently an adversary in a lawsuit against the Company in which the Company has answered and cross-sued the plaintiffs.
On April 16, 2018, Kevin F. Pickard was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company (at the same time, Mr. Bauer resigned his position as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company). The Company and Mr. Pickard entered into an Executive Retention Agreement dated April 16, 2018 pursuant to which Mr. Pickard agreed to serve as Chief Financial Officer in consideration of an annual salary of $120,000. The Company also issued Mr. Pickard 250,000 shares of common stock and granted Mr. Pickard a Stock Option to acquire 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $2.80 per share for a period of five years. The Stock Options vest in tranches of 100,000 shares commencing on the one year anniversary and continuing thereafter on an annual basis or in full in the event of a change of control. The Company and Mr. Pickard also entered into an Indemnification Agreement. The employment of Mr. Pickard is at will and may be terminated at any time, with or without formal cause.
On April 25, 2018, Muhammad Khilji was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Mr. Khilji entered into an agreement pursuant to which he will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that he will one tine grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Mr. Khilji will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Khilji $5,000 per quarter.
On May 17, 2018, Robert Yaspan, Judit Nagypal and Ambassador Ned L. Siegel were appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as directors of the Company. Mr. Yaspan will also serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Ms. Nagypal and Ambassador Siegel are considered independent directors and entered into agreements pursuant to which each will serve as a director. The director agreements provide that each will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. Mr. Yaspan, in consideration for serving as Chairman of the Board, entered into an agreement providing a one-time grant of 250,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 250,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. Each director will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Yaspan, Ms. Nagypal and Ambassador Siegel $5,000 per quarter.
On May 17, 2018, Mansour Khatib, Chief Marketing Officer and director of the Company, was engaged as Interim Chief Executive Officer to fill the vacancy resulting from Gregory Bauer’s resignation as Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company. In addition, Michael Murray, a director of the Company, was engaged as President of the Company. Around the same time, the Company and Mr. Bauer entered into a Consulting Agreement for a period of one year for compensation of $15,000 per month to provide services associated with prepaid financial services. The Consulting Agreement was terminated on or around December 1, 2018, and ceased at the end of 2018. Mr. Bauer is currently an adversary in a lawsuit against the Company in which the Company has answered and cross-sued the plaintiffs.
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On June 18, 2018, Eva Bitter was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Ms. Bitter entered into an agreement pursuant to which she will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that she will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Ms. Bitter will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Ms. Bitter $5,000 per quarter.
On July 23, 2018, Douglas L. Davis was appointed by the Company to serve as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Mansour Khatib resigned as Interim Chief Executive Officer but will continue to serve as Chief Marketing Officer and Director. The Company and Mr. Davis entered into an Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2018 pursuant to which Mr. Davis agreed to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer in consideration of an annual salary of $120,000. The Company also issued Mr. Davis 300,000 shares of common stock subject to a lock-up/leakout provision. The employment of Mr. Davis is for a period of six months and may be terminated at any time, with or without formal cause, on ten days’ notice.
On January 1, 2019, the Company and Douglas Davis entered into an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Davis was retained as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Davis has served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since July 2018. The term of Mr. Davis’ employment is for two years through January 1, 2021. Mr. Davis will be entitled to an annual base salary of $250,000, which shall be increased to $400,000 upon the Company uplisting to a national exchange. Mr. Davis is also be entitled to the issuance of Stock Options to acquire an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company, exercisable for five years, subject to vesting. The options will be earned and vested (i) with respect to 2,000,000 shares of common stock on the date hereof, (ii) 500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful dual list of the Company on an international exchange such as SIX Zurich Stock Exchange or Euronext, (iii) 1,500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful up listing to a national exchange such as the Nasdaq, NYSE Euronext, TSX, AMEX or other, and (iv) with respect to 500,000 shares of common stock at each of the six (6) month anniversaries (July 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020). The exercise price of such options shall be the closing price of the Company on the date prior to such event.
On July 31, 2018, Mitchell K. Tavera was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company to serve as a director of the Company. Mr. Tavera entered into an agreement pursuant to which he will serve as a director. The director agreement provides that he will receive a one-time grant of 100,000 shares of common stock and a stock option to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at $2.50 per share. In addition, Mr. Tavera will receive 100,000 shares of common stock per year vesting in increments of 25,000 per quarter commencing January 1, 2019. The Company will also pay Mr. Tavera $5,000 per quarter.
Procedures for Approval of Related Party Transactions
Our Board of Directors is charged with reviewing and approving all potential related party transactions. All such related party transactions must then be reported under applicable SEC rules. We have not adopted other procedures for review, or standards for approval, of such transactions, but instead review them on a case-by-case basis.
Director Independence
On or around August 10, 2018, the Board of Directors established committees for governance, compensation and audit. The Audit Committee is being led by Muhammed Khalji, a CPA. The Compensation Committee is being led by Judit Nagypal. The Governance Committee is being led by Ambassador Ned L. Siegel. All three leaders of the committees are independent directors. In addition, each committee has two additional members, all of whom are also independent directors.
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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The following table shows the fees that were billed for the audit and other services provided by BF Borgers CPA PC for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Audit Fees | $ | 84,000 | $ | 64,800 | ||||
| Audit-Related Fees | 103,734 | 5,400 | ||||||
| Tax Fees | — | — | ||||||
| All Other Fees | — | — | ||||||
| Total | $ | 187,734 | $ | 70,200 | ||||
Audit Fees - This category includes the audit of our annual financial statements, review of financial statements included in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and services that are normally provided by the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with engagements for those years. This category also includes advice on audit and accounting matters that arose during, or as a result of, the audit or the review of interim financial statements.
Audit-Related Fees - This category consists of assurance and related services by the independent registered public accounting firm that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and are not reported above under “Audit Fees.” The services for the fees disclosed under this category include consultation regarding our correspondence with the SEC, other accounting consulting and other audit services.
Tax Fees - This category consists of professional services rendered by our independent registered public accounting firm for tax compliance and tax advice. The services for the fees disclosed under this category include tax return preparation and technical tax advice.
All Other Fees - This category consists of fees for other miscellaneous items.
Board of Directors Pre-Approval Process, Policies and Procedures
All audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm must be pre-approved. These services may include audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services. Pre-approval is generally provided for up to one year and any pre-approval is detailed as to the particular service or category of service. The independent registered public accounting firm and management periodically report to the board of directors regarding the extent of services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm. Consistent with the board of directors’ policy, all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm were pre-approved by our board of directors.
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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
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| (1) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 20, 2010 | |
| (2) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 28, 2010 | |
| (3) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 13, 2010 | |
| (4) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 3, 2010 | |
| (5) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 9, 2010 | |
| (6) | Incorporated by reference to the Form S-1 Registration Statement filed with the SEC on September 9, 2009. | |
| (7) | Incorporated by reference to the Form S-1 Registration Statement filed with the SEC on November 2, 2009. | |
| (8) | Incorporated by reference to the Form S-1 Registration Statement filed with the SEC on January 29, 2010. | |
| (9) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 22, 2010 |
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| (10) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 17, 2010 | |
| (11) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 3, 2011 | |
| (12) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 2, 2011 | |
| (13) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2011 | |
| (14) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-K Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 6, 2011 | |
| (15) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 20, 2011 | |
| (16) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2011 | |
| (17) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 9, 2011 | |
| (18) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 12, 2011 | |
| (19) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 16, 2011 | |
| (20) | Incorporated by referenced to the Form 10-K Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 13, 2012 | |
| (21) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 14, 2012 | |
| (22) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 27, 2012. | |
| (23) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 9, 2013. | |
| (24) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-K Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 15, 2013. | |
| (25) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 20, 2012. | |
| (26) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 1, 2013. | |
| (27) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 4, 2013. | |
| (28) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 3, 2014. |
53
| (29) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 20, 2014 | |
| (30) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 27, 2015 | |
| (31) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 18, 2015 |
54
| (32) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 12, 2015 | |
| (33) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 24, 2015 | |
| (34) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 1, 2015 | |
| (35) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 16, 2015 | |
| (36) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 21, 2015 | |
| (37) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 28, 2015 | |
| (38) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 20, 2016 | |
| (39) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 20, 2016 | |
| (40) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 13, 2016 | |
| (41) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 26, 2017 | |
| (42) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 13, 2017 | |
| (43) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 30, 2017 | |
| (44) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 7, 2017 | |
| (45) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 7, 2017 | |
| (46) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 22, 2017 | |
| (47) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 10, 2017 | |
| (48) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 27, 2017 | |
| (49) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 30, 2017 | |
| (50) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 2, 2018 |
55
| (51) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 3, 2018 | |
| (52) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 6, 2018 | |
| (53) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 21, 2018 | |
| (54) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 13, 2018 | |
| (55) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2018 | |
| (56) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 26, 2018. | |
| (57) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 8, 2018. | |
| (58) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 22, 2018. | |
| (59) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 22, 2018. | |
| (60) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 24, 2018. | |
| (61) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 31, 2018. | |
| (62) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 9, 2018. | |
| (63) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K Current Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 18, 2018. | |
| (64) | Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 13, 2018. |
None
56
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
| GOPHER PROTOCOL INC. | ||
| Dated: March 27, 2019 | By: | /s/ Douglas Davis |
| Name: | Douglas Davis | |
| Title: |
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
| Dated: March 27, 2019 | By: | /s/ Kevin Pickard |
| Name: | Kevin Pickard | |
| Title: |
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
|
In accordance with the Exchange Act, this report has been signed below by the following persons on March 27, 2019, on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.
| Signature | Title | Date | ||
| /s/ Douglas Davis | Chief Executive Officer | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Douglas Davis | (Principal Executive Officer) | |||
| /s/ Kevin Pickard | Chief Financial Officer | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Kevin Pickard | (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | |||
| /s/ Dr. Danny Rittman | Chief Technology Officer and Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Dr. Danny Rittman | ||||
| /s/ Michael Murray | President and Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Michael Murray | ||||
| /s/ Mansour Khatib | Chief Marketing Officer and Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Mansour Khatib | ||||
| /s/ Robert Yaspan | Chairman of the Board of Directors | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Robert Yaspan | ||||
| /s/ Judit Nagypal | Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Judit Nagypal | ||||
| /s/ Mitchell Tavera | Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Mitchell Tavera | ||||
| /s/ Muhammed Khilji | Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Muhammed Khilji | ||||
| /s/Eva Bitter | Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Eva Bitter | ||||
| /s/Ned Siegel | Director | March 27, 2019 | ||
| Ned Siegel | ||||
57
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
Consolidated Financial Statements
Contents
F- 1
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the board of directors of Gopher Protocol, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Gopher Protocol, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related statement of operations, stockholders’ equity (deficit), and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ BF Borgers CPA PC
BF Borgers CPA PC
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017
Lakewood, CO
March 27, 2019
F- 2
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
| ASSETS | December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Current Assets: | ||||||||
| Cash | $ | 1,863,510 | $ | 1,305,062 | ||||
| Accounts receivable | 152,118 | 41,947 | ||||||
| Inventory | — | 262,749 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses | 16,000 | — | ||||||
| Marketable equity security | 4,200,000 | — | ||||||
| Total current assets | 6,231,628 | 1,609,758 | ||||||
| Property and equipment, net | 238,438 | 263,082 | ||||||
| Intangible assets, net | 3,149,740 | 6,666,667 | ||||||
| Marketable equity security | 14,000,000 | 1,979 | ||||||
| Goodwill | 925,877 | 950,619 | ||||||
| Total assets | $ | 24,545,683 | $ | 9,492,105 | ||||
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses (including related parties of $460,853 and $51,167) | $ | 2,338,125 | $ | 1,199,215 | ||||
| Unearned revenue | 257,848 | — | ||||||
| Due to Guardian LLC (related party) | 702,483 | 1,350,262 | ||||||
| Convertible notes payable, net of discount of $3,233,124 and $54,377 | 198,076 | 25,623 | ||||||
| Note payable, net of discount of $744 | 2,699,256 | — | ||||||
| Derivative liability | 3,833,506 | 95,164 | ||||||
| Total current liabilities | 10,029,294 | 2,670,264 | ||||||
| Note payable | — | 2,600,000 | ||||||
| Total liabilities | 10,029,294 | 5,270,264 | ||||||
| Contingencies | — | — | ||||||
| Stockholders’ Equity: | ||||||||
| Series B Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; 45,000 and 45,000 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | — | — | ||||||
| Series C Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized; 700 and 700 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | — | — | ||||||
| Series D Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 100,000 shares authorized; 0 and 66,000 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | — | 1 | ||||||
| Series G Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized; 0 and 2,000,000 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | — | 20 | ||||||
| Common stock, $0.00001 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 182,224,264 and 58,215,406 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | 3,822 | 2,582 | ||||||
| Treasury stock, at cost; 1,040 shares at December 31, 2018 and 2017 | (643,059 | ) | (643,059 | ) | ||||
| Additional paid in captial | 81,306,958 | 19,243,959 | ||||||
| Accumulated deficit | (66,151,332 | ) | (14,381,662 | ) | ||||
| Total stockholders’ equity | 14,516,389 | 4,221,841 | ||||||
| Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | $ | 24,545,683 | $ | 9,492,105 | ||||
The accompanying footnotes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F- 3
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Sales: | ||||||||
| Sales | $ | 51,389,605 | $ | 9,012,354 | ||||
| Related party sales | 180,000 | 180,000 | ||||||
| Total sales | 51,569,605 | 9,192,354 | ||||||
| Cost of goods sold | 49,676,764 | 8,651,804 | ||||||
| Gross profit | 1,892,841 | 540,550 | ||||||
| Operating expenses: | ||||||||
| General and administrative expenses | 17,346,725 | 3,574,296 | ||||||
| Marketing expenses | 502,539 | 220,229 | ||||||
| Acquisition costs | 10,966,791 | 4,050,819 | ||||||
| Buyout of joint venture agreement (related party) | 11,750,000 | — | ||||||
| Impairment of assets | 7,132,286 | — | ||||||
| Total operating expenses | 47,698,341 | 7,845,344 | ||||||
| Loss from operations | (45,805,500 | ) | (7,304,794 | ) | ||||
| Other income (expense): | ||||||||
| Amortization of debt discount | (3,740,794 | ) | (1,195,755 | ) | ||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liability | (734,540 | ) | 374,230 | |||||
| Interest expense and financing costs | (5,808,836 | ) | (2,160,971 | ) | ||||
| Unrealized gain on marketable equity security | 6,475,317 | |||||||
| Equity loss on equity investment | (2,155,317 | ) | — | |||||
| Total other income (expense) | (5,964,170 | ) | (2,982,496 | ) | ||||
| Loss before income taxes | (51,769,670 | ) | (10,287,290 | ) | ||||
| Income tax expense | — | — | ||||||
| Net loss | $ | (51,769,670 | ) | $ | (10,287,290 | ) | ||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding: | ||||||||
| Basic and diluted | 130,620,385 | 46,256,807 | ||||||
| Net loss per share: | ||||||||
| Basic and diluted | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.22 | ) | ||
The accompanying footnotes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F- 4
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
| Series B Convertible Preferred Stock | Series C Convertible Preferred Stock | Series D Convertible Preferred Stock | Series G Convertible Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Treasusy Stock |
Additional
Paid-in |
Accumulated |
Total
Stockholders’ Equity/ |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | (Deficit) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2016 | 45,000 | $ | — | 700 | $ | — | 66,000 | $ | 1 | — | $ | — | 41,420,372 | $ | 2,414 | 1,040 | $ | (643,059 | ) | $ | 3,931,986 | $ | (4,094,372 | ) | $ | (803,030 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for debt conversion | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 8,436,700 | 85 | — | — | 156,905 | — | 156,990 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 25,000 | — | 26,500 | 26,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for acquisition | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 5,000,000 | 50 | — | — | 1,849,950 | — | 1,850,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for acquisition services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2,000,000 | 20 | — | — | 739,980 | — | 740,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for cash | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1,333,334 | 13 | — | — | 999,987 | — | 1,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Series G convertible preferred stock issued for debt conversion | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2,000,000 | 20 | — | — | — | — | 700,050 | — | 700,070 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for acquisition | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 3,310,819 | — | 3,310,819 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4,782,297 | — | 4,782,297 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Fair value of beneficial conversion feature of debt repaid/
converted |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2,745,485 | — | 2,745,485 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | (10,287,290 | ) | (10,287,290 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2017 | 45,000 | — | 700 | — | 66,000 | 1 | 2,000,000 | 20 | 58,215,406 | 2,582 | 1,040 | (643,059 | ) | 19,243,959 | (14,381,662 | ) | 4,221,841 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Conversion of Series D to common stock | — | — | — | — | (66,000 | ) | (1 | ) | — | — | 66,000,000 | 660 | — | — | (659 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Conversion of Series G to common stock | — | — | — | — | — | — | (2,000,000 | ) | (20 | ) | 2,000,000 | 20 | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4,143,750 | 41 | 5,338,184 | 5,338,225 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for acquisition | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 750,000 | 7 | — | — | 1,704,993 | — | 1,705,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for acquisition services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 5,250,000 | 53 | — | — | 8,302,947 | — | 8,303,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for equity interest in Mobiquity Technologies, Inc. | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 20,000,000 | 200 | — | — | 13,879,800 | — | 13,880,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued to Guardian LLC for termination of agreement | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 12,500,000 | 125 | — | — | 11,749,875 | — | 11,750,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for price protection | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2,318,583 | 23 | — | — | 883,427 | — | 883,450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for conversion of convertible debt and accrued interest | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 9,823,799 | 98 | — | — | 2,298,594 | — | 2,298,692 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cancellation of common stock for settlement agreement | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | (50,000 | ) | — | — | — | (42,650 | ) | — | (42,650 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock issued for cash | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1,272,726 | 13 | — | — | 1,499,987 | — | 1,500,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for acquisition | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1,675,877 | — | 1,675,877 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 4,219,237 | — | 4,219,237 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrants issued for acqusition services | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 3,661,791 | — | 3,661,791 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair value of beneficial conversion feature of converted/debt repaid | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 2,996,442 | — | 2,996,442 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Relative fair value of warrants issued with convertible debt | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 3,336,783 | — | 3,336,783 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair value of beneficial conversion feature associated with convertible debt | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 558,371 | — | 558,371 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | (51,769,670 | ) | (51,769,670 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2018 | 45,000 | $ | — | 700 | $ | — | — | $ | — | — | $ | — | 182,224,264 | $ | 3,822 | $ | 1,040 | $ | (643,059 | ) | $ | 81,306,958 | $ | (66,151,332 | ) | $ | 14,516,389 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The accompanying footnotes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
.
F- 5
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Cash Flows From Operating Activities: | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (51,769,670 | ) | $ | (10,287,290 | ) | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | ||||||||
| Depreciation of property and equipment | 106,602 | 26,169 | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | 1,150,260 | 333,333 | ||||||
| Amortization of debt discount | 3,740,794 | 1,195,755 | ||||||
| Change in fair value of derivative liability | 734,540 | (374,230 | ) | |||||
| Financing cost | 3,551,057 | 1,964,747 | ||||||
| Shares issued for services | 13,641,225 | 766,500 | ||||||
| Shares issued for buyout of joint venture agreement | 11,750,000 | — | ||||||
| Warrants issued for services | 7,881,028 | 4,782,297 | ||||||
| Impairment of assets | 7,132,286 | — | ||||||
| Unrealized gain on market equity security | (6,475,317 | ) | — | |||||
| Equity loss on equity investment | 2,155,317 | — | ||||||
| Cancellation of common stock per settlement agreement | (42,650 | ) | — | |||||
| Common stock issued for price protection | 883,450 | — | ||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts receivable | (110,171 | ) | (41,947 | ) | ||||
| Inventory | 262,749 | 135,402 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses | (16,000 | ) | 5,248 | |||||
| Other assets | 5,521 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 1,162,602 | 766,944 | ||||||
| Unearned revenue | 257,848 | — | ||||||
| Due to Guardian, LLC | (647,779 | ) | 950,262 | |||||
| Accrued interest on convertible notes payable | — | — | ||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | (4,651,829 | ) | 228,711 | |||||
| Cash Flows From Investing Activities: | ||||||||
| Purchase of property and equipment | (16,958 | ) | (78,352 | ) | ||||
| Cash paid for acquisitions | (200,000 | ) | — | |||||
| Cash paid for investment in Spare | (265,000 | ) | — | |||||
| Other | 1,979 | — | ||||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (479,979 | ) | (78,352 | ) | ||||
| Cash Flows From Financing Activities: | ||||||||
| Issuance of convertible notes | 6,356,000 | 440,000 | ||||||
| Repayment of convertible notes | (1,305,000 | ) | (290,393 | ) | ||||
| Payment on acquisition note | (860,744 | ) | ||||||
| Issuance of common stock | 1,500,000 | 1,000,000 | ||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 5,690,256 | 1,149,607 | ||||||
| Net increase in cash | 558,448 | 1,299,966 | ||||||
| Cash, beginning of period | 1,305,062 | 5,096 | ||||||
| Cash, end of period | $ | 1,863,510 | $ | 1,305,062 | ||||
| Cash paid for: | ||||||||
| Interest | $ | 1,264,256 | $ | — | ||||
| Income taxes | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
| Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities | ||||||||
| Debt discount | $ | 6,000,244 | $ | 1,250,132 | ||||
| Transfer of derivative liability to equity | $ | 2,996,442 | $ | 2,745,485 | ||||
| Shares issued to reduce notes payable and accrued interest | $ | — | $ | 857,060 | ||||
| Reclassification of a payable to Guardian LLC to a convertible note payable | $ | — | $ | 660,132 | ||||
| Accrued interest to convertible note payable | $ | — | $ | 1,756 | ||||
| Shares issued for equity interest in Mobiquity Technologies, Inc. | $ | 13,880,000 | $ | — | ||||
The accompanying footnotes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F- 6
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Note 1 - Organization and Basis of Presentation
Organization and Line of Business
Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”, “Gopher”, “Gopher Protocol” or “GOPH”) was incorporated on July 22, 2009 under the laws of the State of Nevada. Gopher is an emerging growth company that is creating and patenting innovative mobile microchip (ICs) and software technologies based on the GopherInsight ™ technology platform. The Company also offers prepaid cellular phone minutes for both domestic and international carriers. In addition, the Company offers cellular activation (activating SIM cards with wireless carriers) to create additional users (consumers) on those networks and provides check processing, verification and recovery solutions for small to medium sized businesses. The Company derived revenues from (i) the provision of IT services to Guardian Patch LLC, a related party (“Guardian LLC”); (ii) from the operations of the assets it acquired in the third quarter of 2017 and the first and second quarters of 2018 that include the sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation and (iii) from the licensing of its technology.
GopherInsight ™ is a patented (with additional patents pending), real time, heuristic (self-learning/artificial intelligence based) global mesh network and asset tracking IoT technology. GopherInsight ™ chip and software technologies, if successfully fully developed, are designed to be installed in mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.), autonomous vehicles, robots, drones, consumer products, as well as other fixed and mobile stand-alone products. It is intended that GopherInsight ™ software applications will work in conjunction with GopherInsight ™ microchips across mobile operating systems, providing computing power, advanced database management/sharing functionalities and more. The technology under development consists of a smart microchip, mobile application software and supporting software. The system contemplates the creation of a global mesh network.
On March 29, 2016, the Company contributed all of its rights relating to its proprietary microchip that is within a sticky patch package (the “Patch”) to Guardian LLC in consideration of 50% of the profit generated by Guardian LLC and a commitment from Guardian LLC that it is responsible for investing all needed funds for the purpose of developing the Patch and related products to the Patch, as well as funding the working capital needs of the Company. On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement with Guardian LLC pursuant to which the Company purchased Guardian LLC’s 50% interest previously entered between the parties in March 2016 covering the Guardian Patch, Puzpix and Epsilon. In consideration, the Company issued Guardian 12,500,000 shares of common stock.
On September 1, 2017, the Company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with a third party, RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, a Georgia corporation. The Company entered into this Asset Purchase Agreement to acquire terminals in approximately 15,000 locations by which the Company will deploy its technology. The operations consist primarily of the sale of phones and phone card products, including PINS for cell minutes, SIM cards for cell minutes, as well as gift cards. The Company incorporated a wholly-owned subsidiary, UGopherServices Corp., to operate the acquired assets (See Note 13).
On March 16, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement dated March 1, 2018 with ECS Prepaid LLC (“ECS”), a Missouri limited liability company, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from ECS, including, but not limited to, the processing prepaid platform, servers, POS terminals, customer list, and a processing software program.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with Electronic Check Services Inc. (“Electronic Check”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from Electronic Check, including, but not limited to, assets associated with software that validates written check authenticity.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with Central State Legal Services Inc. (“CSLS”), a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from CSLS, including, but not limited to, assets associated with a system to recover funds from returned checks.
F- 7
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Use of Estimates
The preparation of 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 consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company regularly evaluates estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates and assumptions on current facts, historical experience and various other factors that it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and the accrual of costs and expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. The actual results experienced by the Company may differ materially and adversely from the Company’s estimates. To the extent there are material differences between the estimates and the actual results, future results of operations will be affected. Significant estimates in the accompanying financial statements include useful lives of property and equipment, useful lives of intangible assets, valuation of beneficial conversion feature, debt discounts, valuation of derivatives, and the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets.
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, UGopherServices Corp, since the date of acquisition (September 1, 2017) and the accounts of ECS, Electronic Check and CSLS since their respective dates of acquisition (March 1, 2018, April 2, 2018 and April 2, 2018). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Cash Equivalents
For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash equivalents include time deposits, certificate of deposits, and all highly-liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less.
Accounts Receivable
The Company grants credit to establishments (such as convenience stores) that sell the Company’s products under credit terms that it believes are customary in the industry and do not require collateral to support customer receivables. The accounts receivable balances are generally collected within 10 days of the product sale and the Company has minimal bad debts. The Company currently does not provide an allowance for doubtful collections, which is based upon a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information, and existing economic conditions. Normal receivable terms vary from 7-30 days after the issuance of the invoice and typically would be considered past due when the term expires. Delinquent receivables are written off based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer. The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts was $0 and $0 at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Inventory
Inventory is valued at the lower of the inventory’s cost (first in, first out basis) or the current market price of the inventory. Management compares the cost of inventory with its market value and an allowance is made to write down inventory to market value, if lower. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, all of the Company’s inventory was finished goods inventory which consisted principally of phones and phone card products, including PINS for cell minutes, SIM cards for cell minutes, as well as gift cards.
F- 8
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to earnings as incurred; additions, renewals and betterments are capitalized. When property and equipment are retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective accounts, and any gain or loss is included in operations. Depreciation of property and equipment is provided using the straight-line method for substantially all assets with estimated lives as follows:
| Furniture | 7 years | |||
| Computers and equipment | 3 years | |||
| POSA machines | 3 years |
Long-Lived Assets
The Company applies the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment , which addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. ASC 360 requires impairment losses to be recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets’ carrying amounts. In that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value of the long-lived assets. Loss on long-lived assets to be disposed of is determined in a similar manner, except that fair values are reduced for the cost of disposal. Based on its review at December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company believes there was no impairment of its long-lived assets.
Intangible Assets
The Company’s intangible assets were acquired with the acquisition of certain RWJ assets in 2017, and the acquisition of certain ECS, Electronic Check and CSLS assets in 2018 are being amortized over 60-120 months. The Company performs a test for impairment annually. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company performed the required impairment analysis. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company determined that the intangible assets associated with the acquisition of certain RWJ assets was impaired and took a charge to earnings of $5,916,667.
Marketable Equity Securities
The Company accounts for marketable equity securities in accordance with ASC Topic 321, Investments – equity securities. Marketable equity securities are reported at fair value based on quotations available on securities exchanges with any unrealized gain or loss being reported as a component of other income (expense) on the statement of operations. The portion of marketable equity security expected to be sold within twelve months of the balance sheet date is reported as a current asset.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the underlying book value of the net assets of the businesses that were acquired. Under accounting requirements, goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to annual impairment tests. The Company recorded goodwill of $950,619 related to its acquisition of certain RWJ assets in 2017, and $646,291, $254,586 and $25,000, respectively, related to its acquisition of certain ECS, Electronic Check and CSLS assets in 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company determined that the goodwill associated with the acquisition of certain RWJ assets was impaired and took a charge to earnings of $950,619.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company evaluates all of its agreements to determine if such instruments have derivatives or contain features that qualify as embedded derivatives. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at its fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported in the statements of operations. For stock-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses a weighted-average Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to value the derivative instruments at inception and on subsequent valuation dates. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is evaluated at the end of each reporting period. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether or not net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s only derivative financial instrument was an embedded conversion feature associated with convertible notes payable due to certain provisions that allow for a change in the conversion price based on a percentage of the Company’s stock price at the date of conversion.
F- 9
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
For certain of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, advances to suppliers, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and short-term debt, the carrying amounts approximate their fair values due to their short maturities.
FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures , requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by the Company. FASB ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments , defines fair value, and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement that enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets for receivables and current liabilities each qualify as financial instruments and are a reasonable estimate of their fair values because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rate of interest. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows:
| ● | Level 1 inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
| ● | Level 2 inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in inactive markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. |
| ● | Level 3 inputs to the valuation methodology us one or more unobservable inputs which are significant to the fair value measurement. |
The Company analyzes all financial instruments with features of both liabilities and equity under FASB ASC Topic 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity , and FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging .
For certain financial instruments, the carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for cash and current liabilities, including convertible notes payable, each qualify as a financial instrument, and are a reasonable estimate of their fair values because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rate of interest.
The Company uses Level 2 inputs for its valuation methodology for derivative liabilities as their fair values were determined by using the Black-Scholes-Merton pricing model based on various assumptions. The Company’s derivative liabilities are adjusted to reflect fair value at each period end, with any increase or decrease in the fair value being recorded in results of operations as adjustments to fair value of derivatives.
At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company identified the following liabilities that are required to be presented on the balance sheet at fair value:
| Fair Value | Fair Value Measurements at | |||||||||||||||
| As of | December 31, 2018 | |||||||||||||||
| Description | December 31, 2018 | Using Fair Value Hierarchy | ||||||||||||||
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||||||
| Marketable equity security - Mobiquity Technologies, Inc. | $ | 18,200,000 | $ | — | $ | 18,200,000 | $ | — | ||||||||
| Conversion feature on convertible notes | $ | 3,833,506 | $ | — | $ | 3,833,506 | $ | — | ||||||||
F- 10
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
| Fair Value | Fair Value Measurements at | |||||||||||||||
| As of | December 31, 2017 | |||||||||||||||
| Description | December 31, 2017 | Using Fair Value Hierarchy | ||||||||||||||
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||||||
| Conversion feature on convertible notes | $ | 95,164 | $ | — | $ | 95,164 | $ | — | ||||||||
Treasury Stock
Treasury stock is recorded at cost. The re-issuance of treasury shares is accounted for on a first in, first-out basis and any difference between the cost of treasury shares and the re-issuance proceeds are charged or credited to additional paid-in capital.
Revenue Recognition
Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ Topic 606 ”), became effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The Company’s revenue recognition disclosure reflects its updated accounting policies that are affected by this new standard. The Company applied the “modified retrospective” transition method for open contracts for the implementation of Topic 606. As sales are and have been primarily from IT services, sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation, and the Company has no significant post-delivery obligations, this new standard did not result in a material recognition of revenue on the Company’s accompanying consolidated financial statements for the cumulative impact of applying this new standard. The Company made no adjustments to its previously-reported total revenues, as those periods continue to be presented in accordance with its historical accounting practices under Topic 605, Revenue Recognition .
Revenue from providing IT services, sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation services are recognized under Topic 606 in a manner that reasonably reflects the delivery of its services and products to customers in return for expected consideration and includes the following elements:
| ● | executed contracts with the Company’s customers that it believes are legally enforceable; |
| ● | identification of performance obligations in the respective contract; |
| ● | determination of the transaction price for each performance obligation in the respective contract; |
| ● | allocation the transaction price to each performance obligation; and |
| ● | recognition of revenue only when the Company satisfies each performance obligation. |
These five elements, as applied to each of the Company’s revenue category, is summarized below:
| ● | IT services - revenue is recorded on a monthly basis as services are provided; |
| ● | Sale of phones, phone card products, prepaid cellular phone minutes and cellular activation – revenue is recognized at the time of sale to the customer; and |
| ● | License fees and Royalties – revenue is recognized based on the terms of the agreement with its customer. |
Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of goods sold represents the cost of the phone,
phone card products and prepaid cellular phone minutes sold by the Company. Cost of goods sold relates to products sold by the
Company’s newly- acquired acquisitions in September 2017, March 2018 and April 2018.
F- 11
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Unearned revenue
Unearned revenue represents the amount received for the purchase of products that have not seen shipped to the Company’s customers. In 2018, the Company ran a pre-sales campaign for its pet tracker product and received $57,848 in unearned revenue as of December 31, 2018. In addition, as of December 31, 2018, the Company received $200,000 in connection with an intellectual property license and royalty agreement (See Note 13).
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes . ASC 740 requires a company to use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes, whereby deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences, and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion, or all of, the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.
Under ASC 740, a tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded. The Company has no material uncertain tax positions for any of the reporting periods presented.
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share
Earnings per share is calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 260, Earnings Per Share . Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS assumes that all dilutive securities are converted. Dilution is computed by applying the treasury stock method. Under this method, options and warrants are assumed to be exercised at the beginning of the period (or at the time of issuance, if later), and as if funds obtained thereby were used to purchase common stock at the average market price during the period. Due to the net loss incurred potentially dilutive instruments would be anti-dilutive. Accordingly, diluted loss per share is the same as basic loss for all periods presented. The following potentially-dilutive shares were excluded from the shares used to calculate diluted earnings per share as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
| December 31, | December 31, | |||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Series B preferred stock | 3,000 | 3,000 | ||||||
| Series C preferred stock | 770 | 770 | ||||||
| Series D preferred stock | — | 66,000,000 | ||||||
| Series G preferred stock | — | 2,000,000 | ||||||
| Warrants | 41,916,666 | 22,760,416 | ||||||
| Convertible notes | 4,316,607 | 133,824 | ||||||
| Total | 46,237,043 | 90,898,010 | ||||||
Management’s Evaluation of Subsequent Events
The Company evaluates events that have occurred after the balance sheet date of December 31, 2018, through the date which the consolidated financial statements are issued. Based upon the review, other than described in Note 14 – Subsequent Events, the Company did not identify any recognized or non-recognized subsequent events that would have required adjustment or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.
F- 12
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In June 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) ASU 2018-07, Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting , which simplifies the accounting for share-based payments granted to nonemployees for goods and services and aligns most of the guidance on such payments to nonemployees with the requirements for share-based payments granted to employees. ASU 2018-07 is effective on January 1, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU on its financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805) Clarifying the Definition of a Business . The amendments in this update clarify the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions or disposals of assets or businesses. The definition of a business affects many areas of accounting including acquisitions, disposals, goodwill, and consolidation. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and should be applied prospectively on or after the effective date. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on its financial statements.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash, which requires restricted cash to be presented with cash and cash equivalents on the statement of cash flows and disclosure of how the statement of cash flows reconciles to the balance sheet if restricted cash is shown separately from cash and cash equivalents on the balance sheet. ASU 2016-18 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on its financial statements.
In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfer of Assets Other than Inventory , which requires the recognition of the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, when the transfer occurs. ASU 2016-16 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU on its financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15 , Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments . ASU 2016-15 provides guidance for targeted changes with respect to how cash receipts and cash payments are classified in the statements of cash flows, with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. ASU 2016-15 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on its financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) . ASU 2016-02 requires lessees to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and requires expanded disclosures about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU on its financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . ASU 2014-09 is a comprehensive revenue recognition standard that will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under current U.S. GAAP and replace it with a principle-based approach for determining revenue recognition. ASU 2014-09 will require that companies recognize revenue based on the value of transferred goods or services as they occur in the contract. The ASU also will require 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. ASU 2014-09 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted only in annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods therein. Entities will be able to transition to the standard either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. The Company adopted this ASU beginning on January 1, 2018 and used the modified retrospective method of adoption. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements and disclosures.
F- 13
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards could have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements. As new accounting pronouncements are issued, we will adopt those that are applicable under the circumstances.
Note 3 - Acquisitions
On March 16, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement dated March 1, 2018 with ECS, a Missouri limited liability company, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from ECS, including, but not limited to, the processing prepaid platform, servers, POS terminals, customer list, a processing software program and goodwill, in consideration of $1,100,000 of which $100,000 was paid on the Closing Date and the balance is to be paid pursuant to a secured promissory note in the amount of $1,000,000. In addition, the Company issued 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company and warrants to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock that are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $1.85 per share. The note is secured by the assets acquired by the Company from ECS and the Company is required to make ten equal principal payments of $100,000 commencing on April 15, 2018. The Company may prepay the note at any time without penalty.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with Electronic Check, a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from Electronic Check, including, but not limited to, assets associated with software that validates written check authenticity. The purchase price was $75,000 in cash, and the Company issued 250,000 shares of common stock of the Company and warrants to purchase 250,000 shares of common stock that are exercisable for a period of five years at a fixed exercise price of $2.70 per share.
On April 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed an asset purchase agreement with CSLS, a Missouri corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from CSLS, including, but not limited to, assets associated with a system to recover funds from returned checks, for $25,000 in cash.
The Company entered into these asset purchase agreements to acquire the software needed to process transactions for its prepaid business, and to acquire additional terminal locations by which the Company will deploy its technology.
A summary of the purchase price and the purchase price allocations at fair value is shown below.
| Electronic | ||||||||||||||||
| ECS | Check | CSLS | Total | |||||||||||||
| Purchase price | ||||||||||||||||
| Cash | $ | 100,000 | $ | 75,000 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 200,000 | ||||||||
| Shares of common stock | 1,010,000 | a | 695,000 | c | — | 1,705,000 | ||||||||||
| Secured promissory note | 960,000 | — | — | 960,000 | ||||||||||||
| Warrants | 992,958 | b | 682,919 | d | — | 1,675,877 | ||||||||||
| $ | 3,062,958 | $ | 1,452,919 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 4,540,877 | |||||||||
| Allocation of purchase price | ||||||||||||||||
| Property and equipment | $ | 50,000 | $ | 15,000 | $ | — | $ | 65,000 | ||||||||
| Technology | 826,667 | 413,333 | — | 1,240,000 | ||||||||||||
| Tradename | 546,667 | 273,333 | — | 820,000 | ||||||||||||
| Customer relationships | 993,333 | 496,667 | — | 1,490,000 | ||||||||||||
| Goodwill | 646,291 | 254,586 | 25,000 | 925,877 | ||||||||||||
| Purchase price | $ | 3,062,958 | $ | 1,452,919 | $ | 25,000 | $ | 4,540,877 | ||||||||
F- 14
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
a. the fair value of the 500,000 shares of common stock was calculated based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of acquisition.
b. the fair value of the 500,000 warrants was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| ● | Expected life of 5.0 years |
| ● | Volatility of 210%; |
| ● | Dividend yield of 0%; |
| ● | Risk free interest rate of 2.65% |
c. the fair value of the 250,000 shares of common stock was calculated based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of acquisition.
d. the fair value of the 250,000 warrants was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| ● | Expected life of 5.0 years |
| ● | Volatility of 210%; |
| ● | Dividend yield of 0%; |
| ● | Risk free interest rate of 2.65% |
The revenue from the acquisition of assets included in the results of operations from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2018 was $28,280,004.
The unaudited pro forma information below present statement of operations data as if the acquisition of assets had taken place on January 1, 2017.
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Sales | $ | 56,932,467 | $ | 37,102,123 | ||||
| Cost of goods sold | 54,914,959 | 35,694,620 | ||||||
| Gross profit | 2,017,508 | 1,407,503 | ||||||
| Operating expenses | 47,919,958 | 9,190,131 | ||||||
| Loss from operations | (45,902,450 | ) | (7,782,628 | ) | ||||
| Net loss | (57,850,047 | ) | (10,723,216 | ) | ||||
| Loss per share | (0.44 | ) | (0.23 | ) | ||||
Note 4 - Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31, 2018 and 2017:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Furniture | $ | 33,739 | $ | 33,740 | ||||
| Computers and equipment | 48,316 | 22,816 | ||||||
| POSA machines | 310,424 | 253,965 | ||||||
| 392,479 | 310,521 | |||||||
| Less accumulated depreciation | (154,041 | ) | (47,439 | ) | ||||
| Property and equipment, net | $ | 238,438 | $ | 263,082 | ||||
F- 15
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $106,602 and $26,169 respectively.
Note 5 – Intangible Assets, Net
The following are the intangible assets at December 31, 2018 and 2017:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Leased locations | $ | — | $ | 7,000,000 | ||||
| Technology | 1,240,000 | — | ||||||
| Tradename | 820,000 | — | ||||||
| Customer relationships | 1,490,000 | — | ||||||
| 3,550,000 | 7,000,000 | |||||||
| Less accumulated amortization | (400,260 | ) | (333,333 | ) | ||||
| Intangible assets, net | $ | 3,149,740 | $ | 6,666,667 | ||||
Intangible assets are being amortized as follows: Leased locations - 84 months; Technology – 60 months; and Tradename and Customer relationships – 120 months.
Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $1,150,260 and $333,333, respectively.
At December 31, 2018, the Company determined that the intangible assets associated with the acquisition of certain RWJ assets was impaired and took a charge to earnings of $5,916,667.
The estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets is as follows:
| Years ending December 31, | |||||
| 2019 | $ | 479,000 | |||
| 2020 | 479,000 | ||||
| 2021 | 479,000 | ||||
| 2022 | 479,000 | ||||
| 2023 | 479,000 | ||||
| Thereafter | 754,740 | ||||
| $ | 3,149,740 | ||||
Note 6 – Investment in Mobiquity Technologies, Inc.
On September 4, 2018, the Company and Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (“Mobiquity”) entered an agreement pursuant to which the parties exchanged equity interest in each of the companies. In accordance with the agreement, the Company received 1,000 shares of Mobiquity’s restricted Series AAAA Preferred Stock (the “Mobiquity Preferred Stock”) in consideration of Company’s concurrent sale and issuance to Mobiquity of 10,000,000 shares of Company’s common stock. The shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock are convertible into an aggregate of up to 100,000,000 shares of Mobiquity common stock (the “Mobiquity Common Stock”) and 150,000,000 common stock purchase warrants (the “Mobiquity Warrants”). The Mobiquity Warrants shall have a term of 5-years from the date of grant and shall be exercisable at a price of $0.12 per share and the shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall not be convertible into shares of Mobiquity Common Stock and the Mobiquity Warrants shall not be contemporaneously granted until after Mobiquity’s Board of Directors and stockholders shall have increased the authorized number of shares of Mobiquity’s common stock to a number sufficient to accommodate a reserve in the Company’s favor of 250,000,000 shares of Mobiquity’s common stock. The Mobiquity Preferred Stock shall have immediate voting rights equal to the number of shares of Mobiquity Common Stock into which they may be converted, not including the shares of Mobiquity’s common stock underlying the Mobiquity Warrants.
F- 16
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
On November 19, 2018, the Company and Mobiquity entered into an Amendment and Exercise Letter waiving the requirement that Mobiquity’s Board of Directors and stockholders increase the authorized number of shares of Mobiquity’s common stock to a number sufficient to accommodate a reserve in the Company’s favor of 250,000,000 shares of Mobiquity’s common stock prior to the conversion of the Mobiquity Preferred Stock or exercise of the Mobiquity Warrants. In addition, the Company converted 200 shares of Mobiquity Preferred Stock resulting in the issuance to the Company by Mobiquity of 20,000,000 shares of Mobiquity Common Stock and 30,000,000 Mobiquity Warrants. The Company exercised the 30,000,000 Mobiquity Warrants at an exercise price of $0.12 per share of common stock, payable through of the issuance to Mobiquity of 10,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company.
In addition, the Company issued 2,000,000 shares of common stock to Glen Eagles Acquisition LP in consideration of its consulting services associated with the negotiation of the number of shares of common stock to be delivered to Mobiquity upon exercise of the Mobiquity Warrants.
As a result of the transaction on September 4, 2018, the Company had an approximate 21% interest in Mobiquity and began to account for its investment in Mobiquity using the equity method of accounting. During the fourth quarter of 2018, Mobiquity issued additional shares of common stock resulting in the Company’s ownership in Mobiquity dropping to approximately 18% at December 31, 2018. The Company determined that during the fourth quarter of 2018 that it did not exercise significant influence over Mobiquity due to its decreased ownership percentage and the Company’s intent to begin selling shares of Mobiquity common stock that will further decrease its ownership percentage. As a result, during the fourth quarter of 2018 the Company began accounting for its investment in Mobiquity as a market equity security.
Note 7 – Convertible Notes Payable
Convertible notes payable at December 31, 2018 and 2017 consist of the following:
| December 31, | December 31, | |||||||
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Convertible notes payable to Power Up | $ | 427,200 | $ | 80,000 | ||||
| Convertible notes payable to Bellridge Capital | — | — | ||||||
| Convertible note payable issued on December 3, 2018 | 3,004,000 | — | ||||||
| Total convertible notes payable | 3,431,200 | 80,000 | ||||||
| Unamortized debt discount | (3,233,125 | ) | (54,377 | ) | ||||
| Convertible notes payable | $ | 198,075 | $ | 25,623 | ||||
Power Up Lending Group Ltd.
On October 2, 2017, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Power Up Lending Group Ltd., an accredited investor (“Power Up”) pursuant to which the Company issued to Power Up a Convertible Promissory Note (the “Power Note No. 1”) in the aggregate principal amount of $80,000. The Power Note No. 1 has a maturity date of July 10, 2018 and the Company has agreed to pay interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Power Note No. 1 at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date on which the Power Note No. 1 is issued until the same becomes due and payable, whether at maturity or upon acceleration or by prepayment or otherwise. The Company shall have the right to prepay the Power Note, provided it makes a payment to Power Up as set forth in the Power Note No. 1.
F- 17
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The outstanding principal amount of the Power Note No. 1 is convertible at any time and from time to time at the election of Power Up during the period beginning on the date that is 180 days following the issue date into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price equal to 61% of the lowest trading price with a 15 day look back immediately preceding the date of conversion. In addition, upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an Event of Default (as defined in the Power Note), the Power Note No. 1 shall become immediately due and payable and the Company shall pay to Power Up, in full satisfaction of its obligations hereunder, additional amounts as set forth in the Power Note No. 1.
Due to the variable conversion price associated with the Power Note No. 1, the Company has determined that the conversion feature is considered a derivative liability. The embedded conversion feature was initially calculated to be $172,282, which is recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance. The derivative liability was first recorded as a debt discount up to the face amount of the Power Note No. 1, with the remainder being charged to financing cost during the period. The debt discount is being amortized over the terms of the Power Note No. 1.
As of March 6, 2018, the Company has paid off in full all principal, interest and penalties with respect to the Power Note No. 1, and there are no further obligations owed with respect to such note.
On September 28, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Power Up pursuant to which the Company issued to Power Up a Convertible Promissory Note (the “Power Note No. 2”) in the aggregate principal amount of $243,600 for a purchase price of $203,000. The Power Note No. 2 has a maturity date of December 24, 2019 and the Company has agreed to pay interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Power Note No. 2 at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum from the date on which the Power Note No. 2 is issued until the same becomes due and payable, whether at maturity or upon acceleration or by prepayment or otherwise. The Company shall have the right to prepay the Power Note No. 2, provided it makes a payment to Power Up as set forth in the Power Note No. 2.
The outstanding principal amount of the Power Note No. 2 may not be converted prior to the period beginning on the date that is 180 days following the issue date. Following the 180 th day, Power Up may convert the Power Note No. 2 into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price equal to 85% of the lowest trading price with a 15 day look back immediately preceding the date of conversion. In addition, upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an Event of Default (as defined in the Power Note No. 2), the Power Note No. 2 shall become immediately due and payable and the Company shall pay to Power Up, in full satisfaction of its obligations hereunder, additional amounts as set forth in the Power Note No. 2.
Due to the variable conversion price associated with the Power Note No. 2, the Company has determined that the conversion feature is considered a derivative liability. The embedded conversion feature was initially calculated to be $337,669, which is recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance. The derivative liability was first recorded as a debt discount up to the face amount of the Power Note No. 2, with the remainder being charged to financing cost during the period. The debt discount is being amortized over the terms of the Power Note No. 2.
At December 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding under the Power Note No. 2 was $243,600.
On November 6, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Power Up pursuant to which the Company issued to Power Up a Convertible Promissory Note (the “Power Note No. 3”) in the aggregate principal amount of $183,600 for a purchase price of $153,000. The Power Note No. 3 has a maturity date of February 6, 2020 and the Company has agreed to pay interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Power Note No. 3 at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum from the date on which the Power Note No. 3 is issued until the same becomes due and payable, whether at maturity or upon acceleration or by prepayment or otherwise. The Company shall have the right to prepay the Power Note No. 3, provided it makes a payment to Power Up as set forth in the Power Note No. 3.
The outstanding principal amount of the Power Note No. 3 may not be converted prior to the period beginning on the date that is 180 days following the issue date. Following the 180 th day, Power Up may convert the Power Note No. 3 into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price equal to 85% of the lowest trading price with a 15 day look back immediately preceding the date of conversion. In addition, upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an Event of Default (as defined in the Power Note No. 3), the Power Note No. 3 shall become immediately due and payable and the Company shall pay to Power Up, in full satisfaction of its obligations hereunder, additional amounts as set forth in the Power Note No.3.
F- 18
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Due to the variable conversion price associated with the Power Note No. 3, the Company has determined that the conversion feature is considered a derivative liability. The embedded conversion feature was initially calculated to be $171,942, which is recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance. The derivative liability was first recorded as a debt discount up to the face amount of the Power Note No. 3, with the remainder being charged to financing cost during the period. The debt discount is being amortized over the terms of the Power Note No. 3.
At December 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding under the Power Note No. 2 was $183,600.
Bellridge Capital LLC
On March 2, 2018, the Company entered into and closed a Securities Purchase Agreement with Bellridge Capital, LLC (“Bellridge”) pursuant to which Bellridge invested $750,000 into the Company in consideration of a 10% Convertible Debenture (the “Bellridge Debenture”) and common stock purchase warrants to acquire an aggregate of 500,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at an exercise price of $2.35 per share. The Bellridge Debenture bears interest of 10% and is payable March 1, 2019. The Bellridge Debenture is convertible into shares of common stock at $0.90 per share subject to antidilution protection. During an event of default, the conversion price in effect on any conversion date means, as of any conversion date or other date of determination, shall be 35% of the lowest trading price for the Company’s common stock during the 20 trading Days immediately preceding the delivery of a notice of conversion. Bellridge has agreed to restrict its ability to convert the Bellridge Debenture or exercise its Common Stock Purchase Warrants and receive shares of common stock such that the number of shares of common stock held by it and its affiliates after such conversion or exercise does not exceed 4.99% of the then issued and outstanding shares of common stock.
On March 2, 2018, the Company delivered 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock to an escrow agent. The 1,000,000 escrow shares are to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the 7 th monthly anniversary of the issuance of the 1,000,000 escrow shares, Bellridge has sold shares issuable upon conversion of the Bellridge Debenture at a sales price of less than $1.10 per share, then that number of shares shall be released from escrow to Bellridge as a limited make whole using the following formula:
(($1.00 – closing price on 1 st day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the 1 st day of the 7 th month (and continuing monthly until all shares are sold) / closing price of the 1 st monthly day in question) * number of shares sold at a price less than $1.10.
As long as the Company is not in default of the Bellridge Debenture or in breach of the Securities Purchase Agreement, at any time during which Bellridge owns the Bellridge Debenture, Bellridge commits to limit in the aggregate all sales of the shares of common stock issued upon conversion of the Bellridge Debenture and the related Common Stock Purchase Warrant to the greater of not more than (i) 10.00% of the daily trading volume for the Company’s common stock as reported for that day or (ii) $35,000. Breach of this leak-out provision will be considered a material breach by Bellridge.
In connection with the Bellridge Debenture, the Company issued 500,000 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $2.35. The Company first determined the value of the convertible note and the fair value of the detachable warrants issued in connection with this transaction. The estimated value of the warrants of $827,428 and was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| ● | Expected life of 5.0 years |
| ● | Volatility of 210%; |
| ● | Dividend yield of 0%; |
| ● | Risk free interest rate of 2.65% |
The face amount of the convertible note of $750,000 was proportionately allocated to the convertible note and the warrant in the amount of $356,593 and $393,407, respectively. The amount allocated to the warrants of $393,407 was recorded as a discount to the convertible note and as additional paid in capital. The value of the convertible note was then allocated between the convertible note and the beneficial conversion feature, which amounted to $0 and $356,593, respectively. The combined total discount is $750,000 and will be amortized over the year life of the convertible note.
F- 19
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
On April 9, 2018, Bellridge elected to exercise the Bellridge Option, and as such the Company and Bellridge closed the second financing as contemplated by the Securities Purchase Agreement entered with Bellridge pursuant to which Bellridge invested an additional $750,000 into the Company in consideration of a 10% Convertible Debenture (the “Second Bellridge Debenture” and together with the First Bellridge Debenture, the “Bellridge Debenture”) and common stock purchase warrants to acquire an aggregate of 500,000 shares of common stock exercisable for a period of five years at an exercise price of $2.35 per share (the “Second Bellridge Warrant” and together with the First Bellridge Warrant, the “Bellridge Warrant”) The Bellridge Debenture bears interest of 10% and is payable one year from issuance. The First Bellridge Debenture and the Second Bellridge Debenture are convertible into shares of common stock at $0.90 per share and $1.00 per share, respectively, subject to limited antidilution protection.
During an event of default, the conversion price for the Bellridge Debenture in effect on any conversion date means, as of any conversion date or other date of determination, shall be 35% of the lowest trading price for the Company’s common stock during the 20 trading Days immediately preceding the delivery of a notice of conversion. Bellridge has agreed to restrict its ability to convert the Bellridge Debenture or exercise the Bellridge Warrant and receive shares of common stock such that the number of shares of common stock held by it and its affiliates after such conversion or exercise does not exceed 4.99% of the then issued and outstanding shares of common stock.
In connection with both closings, the Company delivered 1,000,000 shares of common stock to an escrow agent. The escrow shares are to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the 7 th monthly anniversary of the issuance of the escrow shares, Bellridge has sold shares issuable upon conversion of the Bellridge Debenture at a sales price of less than $1.10 per share, then that number of shares shall be released from escrow to Bellridge as a limited make whole using the following formula:
(($1.00 – closing price on 1 st day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the 1 st day of the 7 th month (and continuing monthly until all shares are sold) / closing price of the 1 st monthly day in question) * number of shares sold at a price less than $1.10.
As long as the Company is not in default of the Bellridge Debenture or in breach of the Securities Purchase Agreement, at any time during which Bellridge owns the Bellridge Debenture, Bellridge commits to limit in the aggregate all sales of the shares of common stock issued upon conversion of the Bellridge Debenture and the related Common Stock Purchase Warrant to the greater of not more than (i) 10.00% of the daily trading volume for the Company’s common stock as reported for that day or (ii) $35,000. Breach of this leak-out provision will be considered a material breach by Bellridge.
In connection with the Second Bellridge Debenture, the Company issued 500,000 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $2.35. The Company first determined the value of the convertible note and the fair value of the detachable warrants issued in connection with this transaction. The estimated value of the warrants of $2,037,713 and was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| ● | Expected life of 5.0 years |
| ● | Volatility of 210%; |
| ● | Dividend yield of 0%; |
| ● | Risk free interest rate of 2.60% |
The face amount of the convertible note of $750,000 was proportionately allocated to the convertible note and the warrant in the amount of $201,778 and $548,222, respectively. The amount allocated to the warrants of $548,222 was recorded as a discount to the convertible note and as additional paid in capital. The value of the convertible note was then allocated between the convertible note and the beneficial conversion feature, which amounted to $0 and $201,778, respectively. The combined total discount is $750,000 and will be amortized over the year life of the convertible note.
F- 20
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
In October 2018, Bellridge converted $275,000 in principal and $17,075 in accrued interest into 324,528 shares of common stock. In addition, in November 2018, Bellridge was issued an additional 318,583 shares of common stock pursuant to the limited price protection described above.
On November 28, 2018, the Company entered into a letter agreement with Bellridge acknowledging that no event of default exists under the Bellridge Debentures as a result of the issuance of certain convertible securities, that the Company may prepay the Bellridge Debentures in the full amount by making a payment in the amount of $2,450,000 by December 17, 2018 (the “Repayment Date”) and Bellridge will not submit further conversion notices until after the Repayment Date. In the event the Bellridge Debentures are not paid off as of the Repayment Date (i) the outstanding principal amount (principal balance) of the First Bellridge Debenture shall be increased to $1,022,510 and the outstanding principal amount (principal balance) of the Second Bellridge Debenture shall be increased to $1,427,490 and (ii) the Conversion Price of the Bellridge Debentures shall be adjusted to equal 35% of the lowest trading price for the Company’s common stock during the twenty trading days immediately preceding the delivery by Bellridge of a Notice of Conversion. On December 17, 2018, the Bellridge Debentures were repaid in full, and there are no further obligations owed with respect to the Bellridge Debentures.
$8,340,000 Senior Secured Redeemable Convertible Debenture
On December 3, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) with an otherwise unaffiliated third-party institutional investor, pursuant to which the Company issued a Senior Secured Redeemable Convertible Debenture (the “Debenture”) in the aggregate face value of $8,340,000. The Debenture has a maturity date two years from the issuance date and the Company has agreed to pay compounded interest on the unpaid principal balance of the Debenture at the rate equal to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus 2% per annum (Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus 12% per annum upon the occurrence of a Triggering Event). Interest is payable on the date the applicable principal is converted or on maturity. The interest must be paid in cash and, in certain circumstances, may be paid in shares of common stock. In connection with the issuance of the Debenture and pursuant to the terms of the SPA, the Company issued a Common Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire up to 22,500,000 shares of common stock for a term of three years (the “Warrant”) on a cash-only basis at an exercise price of $1.00 per share with respect to 5,000,000 warrant shares, $0.75 with respect to 7,500,000 warrant shares and $0.50 with respect to 10,000,000 warrant shares. Pursuant to the terms of the SPA, the investor agreed to tender to the Company the sum of $7,500,000, of which the Company received the sum of $4,500,000 as of the closing and is to receive three additional tranches of $1,000,000 on the first, second, and third monthly anniversaries of the closing. As of the closing, the face value of the Debenture was $5,004,000.00; as of the first month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $6,116,000.00; as of the second month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $7,228,000.00; and as of the third month’s anniversary of the closing, the face value of the Debenture is to increase to $8,340,000.00. As of the closing, the number of warrant shares was 13,500,000; as of the first month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of warrant shares is to increase to 16,500,000; as of the second month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of Warrant Shares is to increase to 19,500,000; as of the third month’s anniversary of the closing, the number of Warrant Shares is to increase to 22,500,000. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had issued a Debenture for $5,004,000 and had issued 13,500,000 Warrant Shares. Subsequent to December 31, 2018, the issued Debentures pursuant to the additional three tranches described above and issued 9,000,000 additional Warrant Shares.
The outstanding principal amount may be converted at any time into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price equal to 95% of the Market Price less $0.05 (85% of the Market Price less $0.05 upon the occurrence of a Triggering Event). The Market Price is the average of the 5 lowest individual daily volume weighted average prices during the period the Debenture is outstanding.
In connection with the Debenture, the Company issued 13,500,000 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise prices ranging from $0.50 to $1.00. The Company first determined the value of the convertible note and the fair value of the detachable warrants issued in connection with this transaction. The estimated value of the warrants of $4,594,120 and was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| ● | Expected life of 3.0 years |
| ● | Volatility of 190%; |
F- 21
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
| ● | Dividend yield of 0%; |
| ● | Risk free interest rate of 2.84% |
The face amount of the convertible note of $5,004,000 was proportionately allocated to the convertible note and the warrant in the amount of $2,608,846 and $2,395,154, respectively. The amount allocated to the warrants of $2,395,154 was recorded as a discount to the convertible note and as additional paid in capital. The value of the convertible note was then allocated between the convertible note and the beneficial conversion feature. Due to the variable conversion price associated with the Debenture, the Company has determined that the conversion feature is considered derivative liabilities. The embedded conversion feature was initially calculated to be $5,490,633, which is recorded as a derivative liability as of the date of issuance. The derivative liability was first recorded as a debt discount up to value allocated to the convertible note, with the remainder being charged to financing cost during the period. The combined total discount is $5,004,000 and will be amortized over the year life of the convertible note.
In December 2018, the investor converted $2,000,000 in principal and $6,616 in accrued interest into 9,499,271 shares of common stock. At December 31, 2018, the principal amount outstanding under the Debenture was $3,004,000
Discounts on convertible notes
The Company recognized interest expense of $3,740,794 and $1,195,755 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, related to the amortization of the debt discount. The unamortized debt discount at December 31, 2018 is $3,233,124.
A roll-forward of the convertible note from December 31, 2016 to December 31, 2018 is below:
| Convertible notes, December 31, 2016 | $ | 53,852 | ||
| Issued for cash | 440,000 | |||
| Issued for accounts payable and accrued expenses | 660,132 | |||
| Increase due to accrued interest | 1,756 | |||
| Conversion to common stock | (125,215 | ) | ||
| Conversion to Series G preferred stock | (660,132 | ) | ||
| Repayment in cash | (290,393 | ) | ||
| Debt discount related to new convertible notes | (1,250,132 | ) | ||
| Amortization of debt discounts | 1,195,755 | |||
| Convertible notes, December 31, 2017 | 25,623 | |||
| Issued for cash | 6,356,000 | |||
| Original issue discount | 575,200 | |||
| Repayment in cash | (1,305,000 | ) | ||
| Conversion to common stock | (2,275,000 | ) | ||
| Debt discount related to new convertible notes | (6,919,542 | ) | ||
| Amortization of debt discounts | 3,740,794 | |||
| Convertible notes, December 31, 2018 | $ | 198,075 |
Note 8 - Derivative Liability
Certain of the convertible notes payable discussed in Note 7 have a conversion price that can be adjusted based on the Company’s stock price which results in the conversion feature being recorded as a derivative liability.
The fair value of the derivative liability is recorded and shown separately under current liabilities. Changes in the fair value of the derivative liability is recorded in the statement of operations under other income (expense).
F- 22
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The Company uses a weighted average Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions to measure the fair value of derivative liability at December 31, 2018 and 2017:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Stock price | $ | 0.32 | $ | 1.12 | ||||
| Risk free rate | 2.63 | % | 1.76 | % | ||||
| Volatility | 150 | % | 175 | % | ||||
| Conversion/ Exercise price | $ | 0.24 | $ | 0.60 | ||||
| Dividend rate | 0 | % | 0 | % | ||||
The following table represents the Company’s derivative liability activity for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018:
| Derivative liability balance, December 31, 2016 | $ | — | ||
| Issuance of derivative liability during the period | 3,214,879 | |||
| Fair value of beneficial conversion feature of debt repaid/converted | (2,745,485 | ) | ||
| Change in derivative liability during the period | (374,230 | ) | ||
| Derivative liability balance, December 31, 2017 | 95,164 | |||
| Issuance of derivative liability during the period | 6,000,244 | |||
| Fair value of beneficial conversion feature of debt repaid/converted | (2,996,442 | ) | ||
| Change in derivative liability during the period | 734,540 | |||
| Derivative liability balance, December 31, 2018 | $ | 3,833,506 |
Note 9- Note Payable
In connection with the acquisition RWJ in September 2017, the Company issued a note payable. The note accrues interest at 3.5% per annum is due on December 31, 2019 and is secured by the assets purchased in the acquisition. This note payable of $2,600,000 is classified as short-term in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet (See Note 13).
In connection with the acquisition of ECS as discussed in Note 3, the Company issued a note payable. The note is to be repaid in monthly installment payments of $100,000 with the final payment due on January 15, 2019. As of December 31, 2018, ten such payments have occurred. This note with a remaining balance of $99,256 at December 31, 2018 is secured by the assets purchased in the acquisition and is classified as short-term in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The balance of this note was paid in full in January 2019.
Note 10- Stockholders’ Equity
Common Stock
During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company had the following transactions in its common stock:
| ● | issued 66,000,000 shares in connection with the conversion of 66,000 shares of Series D Preferred Stock; |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares in connection with the conversion of 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock; |
| ● | issued 250,000 shares to a consultant for professional services rendered valued at $123,725. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the dates that the shares earned based on the agreement; |
| ● | issued 1,800,000 shares to employees and board members as part of their agreements with the Company. The value of the common stock of $4,404,500 was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of the respective agreements; |
F- 23
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
| ● | issued 3,000,000 to a consultant for services related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the RWJ assets. The 3,000,000 shares were earned when the operations of the RWJ assets produced revenue in excess of $10,000,000. The value of the common stock of $4,590,000 was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of the shares were earned. |
| ● | issued aggregate of 1,250,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered valued at $2,715,000. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the ECS and Electronic Check assets (see Note 3). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of acquisition of ECS and Electronic Check; |
| ● | issued 500,000 shares for the acquisition of the ECS assets valued at $1,010,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; |
| ● | issued 250,000 shares for the acquisition of the Electronic Check valued at $695,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; |
| ● | issued 10,000,000 shares in connection with its equity interest in Mobiquity valued at $9,980,000 (See Note 6). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of the Mobiquity transaction; |
| ● | issued an additional 10,000,000 shares to Mobiquity valued at $3,90,000 for payment of the exercise price for 20,000,000 warrants previously granted to the Company. (See Note 6). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 1,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered valued at $998,000. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of its equity interest in Mobiquity. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of Mobiquity transaction; |
| ● | issued 12,500,000 shares to Guardian LLC in connection the termination of its 50% interest in the profits of certain of the Company’s products (See Note 11). The shares were valued at $11,750,000 which was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock at the date of the agreement; |
| ● | issued 324,528 shares to Bellridge for the conversion of $275,000 in convertible notes and $17,075 in accrued interest; |
| ● | issued 9,499,274 shares to an investor for the conversion of $2,000,000 in convertible notes and $6,521 in accrued interest; |
| ● | issued 318,583 shares to Bellridge pursuant to the limited price protection. The shares were valued at $213,451 which was charged to financing cost was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered in connection with the issuance of the Company’s common stock as payment of the exercise price for the Mobiquity warrants valued at $780,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
F- 24
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to a consultant for services rendered in connection with the issuance of the Company’s common stock as payment of the exercise price for the Mobiquity warrants valued at $780,000. |
| ● | issued 2,000,000 shares to Eagle Equities LLC as a result of the Company issuing shares of common stock for less than $0.30 pursuant to an agreement with Eagle Equities. (see below). The shares were valued at $670,000 which was charged to financing cost was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date the Company issued shares for less than $0.30; |
| ● | a consultant for services rendered valued at $30,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance; |
| ● | issued 1,272,726 shares of common stock to an investor for cash proceeds of $1,500,000 (See discussion below); and |
| ● | canceled 50,000 shares pursuant to the settlement of a legal matter. |
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had the following transactions in its common stock:
| ● | issued 7,571,334 shares to the PTPI note holder upon the conversion of convertible note and accrued interest of $56,990; |
| ● | issued 865,366 shares to convertible note holders upon the conversion of convertible note of $100,000; |
| ● | issued an aggregate of 2,025,000 shares to two consultants for services rendered valued at $766,500. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the RWJ assets (see Note 3). The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant; |
| ● | issued 5,000,000 shares for the acquisition of the RWJ assets valued at $1,850,000. The value of the common stock was determined based on the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the acquisition date; and |
| ● | issued 1,333,334 shares of common stock to an investor for cash proceeds of $1,000,000 (See discussion below). |
Eagle Equities, LLC
On December 29, 2017, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Eagle Equities, LLC (“Eagle”) pursuant to which Eagle agreed to purchase up to 2,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for a purchase price of $1,500,000 or $0.75 per share. The closing occurred on December 29, 2017 with respect to the funding of $1,000,000 resulting in the issuance of 1,333,334 shares of common stock (the “First Closing Shares”). Eagle agreed to potentially purchase an additional 666,666 shares of common stock (the “Second Closing Shares”) on or before March 31, 2018 for a purchase price of $500,000 subject to various closing conditions. On March 21, 2018, Eagle purchased an additional 666,666 shares of common stock for a purchase price of $500,000.
The Company placed an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of common stock (the “Escrow Shares”) in escrow to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the seventh month anniversary of the issuance of the First Closing Shares and Second Closing Shares, Eagle has sold any of the First Closing Shares or the Second Closing Shares at a sales price of less than $0.72 per share, then that number of Escrow Shares shall be released from escrow to Eagle as a limited make whole which shall be determined by using the following formula:
($0.72 – Closing Price) / Closing Price) * number of shares sold at a price less than $0.72.
F- 25
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Closing Price is price on the first day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the first day of the 7th month (and continuing monthly until the earlier of January 31, 2019 or until all shares are sold).
The Company shall deposit an additional 2,000,000 shares of common stock into escrow which shares shall only be released to Eagle, if, prior to January 31, 2019 (while Eagle continues to hold shares), the Company issues shares at an issue price of less than $0.30 per share.
The Company also issued Eagle a Common Stock Purchase Warrant to acquire 666,666 shares of common stock exercisable for three years at an exercise price of $2.00 per share (the “Eagle Warrant”). Unless otherwise agreed in writing by both the Company and Eagle, at no time will Eagle exercise any amount of the Eagle Warrant to purchase common stock that would result in Eagle owning more than 9.9% of the common stock outstanding of the Company. The Eagle Warrant contains standard anti-dilution protections.
On May 4, 2018, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Eagle pursuant to which Eagle agreed to purchase up to 1,212,120 shares of the Company’s common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $2,000,000 or $1.65 per share. The closing occurred on May 4, 2018 with respect to the funding of $500,000 resulting in the issuance of 303,030 shares of common stock and on May 25, 2018 with respect to the funding of $500,000 resulting in the issuance of an additional 303,030 shares of common stock. Additional closings of $500,000 for 303,030 shares are scheduled to close on June 15, 2018 and July 5, 2018 each. The additional closings on June 15, 2018 and July 5, 2018 have not occurred.
The Company agreed to place 303,030 shares of common stock each tranche (the “Escrow Shares”) in escrow to be utilized for the purpose of limited price protection. If, beginning on the seventh month anniversary of the closing of each tranche, Eagle has sold any of its shares of common stock at a sales price of less than $1.65 per share, then that number of Escrow Shares shall be released from escrow to Eagle as a limited make whole which shall be determined by using the following formula:
($1.65 – Closing Price) / Closing Price) * number of shares sold at a price less than $1.65.
Closing Price is price on the first day of each monthly anniversary beginning on the first day of the 7th month (and continuing monthly until the earlier of June 4, 2019 or until all shares are sold.
Series B Preferred Shares
On November 1, 2011, the Company and certain creditors entered into a Settlement Agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) whereby without admitting any wrongdoing on either part, the parties settled all previous agreements and resolved any existing disputes. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, the Company agreed to issue the creditors 45,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock of the Company on a pro-rata basis. Following the issuance and delivery of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock to said creditors, as well as surrendering the undelivered shares, the Settlement Agreement resulted in the settlement of all debts, liabilities and obligations between the parties.
The Series B Preferred Stock has a stated value of $100 per share and is convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.30 per share representing 3,000 posts split (15,000,000 pre-split) common shares. Furthermore, the Series B Preferred Stock votes on an as converted basis and carries standard anti-dilution rights. These rights were subsequently removed, except in cases of stock dividends or splits.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there were 45,000 Series B Preferred Shares outstanding.
Series C Preferred Shares
On April 29, 2011, GV Global Communications, Inc. (“GV”) provided funding to the Company in the aggregate principal amount of $111,000 (the “Loan”). On September 25, 2012, the Company and GV entered into a Conversion Agreement pursuant to which the Company agreed to convert the Loan into 10,000 shares of Series C Preferred Stock of the Company, which was approved by the Board of Directors.
F- 26
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Each share of Series C Preferred Stock is convertible, at the option of GV, into such number of shares of common stock of the Company as determined by dividing the Stated Value (as defined below) by the Conversion Price (as defined below). The Conversion Price for each share is equal to a 50% discount to the average of the lowest three lowest closing bid prices of the Company’s common stock during the 10-day trading period prior to the conversion with a minimum conversion price of $0.002. The stated value is $11.00 per share (the “Stated Value”). The Series C Preferred Stock has no liquidation preference, does not pay dividends and the holder of Series C Preferred Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each share of common stock that the Series C Preferred Stock shall be convertible into. GV has contractually agreed to restrict its ability to convert the Series C Preferred Stock and receive shares of the Company’s common stock such that the number of shares of the Company’s common stock held by it and its affiliates after such conversion does not exceed 4.9% of the then issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock.
During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, GV Global Communications, Inc. converted 7,770 of its Series C Preferred Stock into 12,010 post-split (64,551,667 common shares pre-split). During the third quarter of 2014, the Company received 4,204 post-split (21,021,900 pre-split) common shares to adjust the shares issued to reflect the amount that both they and the Company believed that they were owed. At December 31, 2016, and at December 31, 2015, GV owns 700 Series C Preferred Shares.
The issuance of the Series C Preferred Stock was made in reliance upon exemptions from registration pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 506 promulgated under Regulation D thereunder. GV is an accredited investor as defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there were 700 Series C Preferred Shares outstanding.
Series D Preferred Shares
Per the terms of the Exclusive License Agreement and in consideration of the licensing agreement signed between the Company and Hermes Roll LLC, the Company issued 100,000 shares of Series D Preferred Stock of the Company (the “Preferred Shares”). The preferred stock has a value of $ 1,000 based upon the cost of the license; due to the holder of license is the related party of the Company. The Preferred Shares have no liquidation rights. The Holder of the Preferred Shares will be entitled to vote on all matters submitted to shareholders of the Company on an as-converted basis. The Preferred Shares have a conversion price of $0.01 (the “Conversion Price”) and a stated value of $10.00 per share (the “Stated Value”). Each Preferred Share is convertible, at the option of the Holder, into such number of shares of common stock of the Company as determined by dividing the Stated Value by the Conversion Price.
On January 23, 2018, Reko Holdings, LLC converted 66,000 shares of its Series D Preferred Stock into 66,000,000 restricted common shares.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there are 0 and 66,000 shares of Series D Preferred Shares outstanding, respectively.
Series G Preferred Shares
On December 29, 2017, Guardian LLC converted all of the principal and interest of the Note, into 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock. The Series G Preferred Stock is entitled to vote on an as-converted basis, automatically converts to common stock upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up and the Company may not declare a dividend until the Series G Preferred Stock has received a dividend. Each share of Series G Preferred Stock is convertible into one shares of common stock of the Company and contain standard anti-dilution rights.
On August 30, 2018, Guardian LLC converted the 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Stock into 2,000,000 shares of common stock.
As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, there are 0 and 2,000,000 shares of Series G Preferred Shares outstanding, respectively.
F- 27
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Warrants
The following is a summary of warrant activity.
| Weighted | |||||||||||||||||
| Weighted | Average | ||||||||||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | |||||||||||||||
| Warrants | Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | ||||||||||||||
| Outstanding | Price | Life | Value | ||||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2016 | 93,750 | $ | $ | — | |||||||||||||
| Granted | 22,666,666 | 0.54 | |||||||||||||||
| Forfeited | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2017 | 22,760,416 | $ | 0.55 | 4.67 | $ | 13,640,000 | |||||||||||
| Granted | 19,250,000 | 0.69 | |||||||||||||||
| Forfeited | (93,750 | ) | 2.25 | ||||||||||||||
| Exercised | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Outstanding, December 31, 2018 | 41,916,666 | $ | 0.61 | 3.48 | $ | — | |||||||||||
| Exercisable, December 31, 2018 | 41,416,666 | $ | 0.61 | 3.47 | $ | — | |||||||||||
The exercise price for warrant outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2018:
| Outstanding | Exercisable | |||||||||||||
| Number of | Exercise | Number of | Exercise | |||||||||||
| Warrants | Price | Warrants | Price | |||||||||||
| 28,000,000 | $ | 0.50 | 28,000,000 | $ | 0.50 | |||||||||
| 4,500,000 | 0.75 | 4,500,000 | 0.75 | |||||||||||
| 3,000,000 | 1.00 | 3,000,000 | 1.00 | |||||||||||
| 3,000,000 | 1.85 | 3,000,000 | 1.85 | |||||||||||
| 666,666 | 2.00 | 666,666 | 2.00 | |||||||||||
| 1,000,000 | 2.35 | 1,000,000 | 2.35 | |||||||||||
| 750,000 | 2.50 | 750,000 | 2.50 | |||||||||||
| 500,000 | 2.70 | 500,000 | 2.70 | |||||||||||
| 500,000 | 2.80 | — | 2.80 | |||||||||||
| 41,916,666 | 41,416,666 | |||||||||||||
During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company issued:
| ● | 1,000,000 warrants in connection with two convertible notes payable; |
| ● | 500,000 warrants as consideration for the acquisition of the ECS assets (see Note 3) valued at $992,958; |
| ● | 250,000 warrants as consideration for the acquisition of the Electronic Check assets (see Note 3) valued at $682,919; |
| ● | 2,250,000 warrants to shares to employees and board members as part of their agreements with the Company valued at $5,443,039; |
F- 28
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
| ● | 1,750,000 warrants to a consultant for services rendered. The services, which include business development, analysis, and interaction with professionals, were principally related to assisting the Company with the acquisition of the ECS and Electronic Check assets (see Note 3) valued at $3,661,791; |
| ● | 13,500,000 warrants in connection with a convertible note issued to investor; and |
| ● | canceled 93,750 warrants pursuant to the settlement of a legal matter. |
The fair value of the warrants listed above was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Risk-free interest rate | 2.65 | % | 1.73 | % | ||||
| Expected life of the options | 5 years | 5 years | ||||||
| Expected volatility | 210 | % | 250 | % | ||||
| Expected dividend yield | 0 | % | 0 | % | ||||
Note 12 - Income Taxes
At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the significant components of the deferred tax assets are summarized below:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Deferred income tax asset | ||||||||
| Net operation loss carryforwards | $ | 5,753,319 | $ | 2,329,554 | ||||
| Book to tax differences in intangible assets | 64,600 | 74,100 | ||||||
| Total deferred income tax asset | 5,817,920 | 2,403,654 | ||||||
| Less: valuation allowance | (5,817,920 | ) | (2,403,654 | ) | ||||
| Total deferred income tax asset | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
The valuation allowance increased by $3,414,266 in 2018 of which $4,030,588 was a result of the Company generating additional net operating losses offset by $616,322 as a result of the change in the corporate tax rate from 34% to 21%. The valuation allowance increased by $760,976 in 2017 as a result of the Company generating additional net operating losses. The Company’s net operating loss carryforward of approximately $19,800,000 begin to expire in 2024.
Income tax expense reflected in the consolidated statements of income consist of the following for 2018 and 2017:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||
| Current | ||||||||
| Federal | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
| State | — | — | ||||||
| — | — | |||||||
| Deferred | ||||||||
| Federal | — | — | ||||||
| State | — | — | ||||||
| — | — | |||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
F- 29
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The reconciliation of the effective income tax rate to the federal statutory rate for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 is as follows:
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||||||||||||
| Amount | Percent | Amount | Percent | |||||||||||||
| Federal statutory rates | $ | (10,871,631 | ) | 21.0 | % | $ | (3,497,679 | ) | 34.0 | % | ||||||
| State income taxes | (4,141,574 | ) | 8.0 | % | (514,365 | ) | 5.0 | % | ||||||||
| Permanent differences | 10,982,617 | -21.2 | % | 3,251,067 | -31.6 | % | ||||||||||
| Valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets | 4,030,587 | -7.8 | % | 760,976 | -7.4 | % | ||||||||||
| Effective rate | $ | — | 0.0 | % | $ | — | 0.0 | % | ||||||||
The Company periodically evaluates the likelihood of the realization of deferred tax assets, and adjusts the carrying amount of the deferred tax assets by the valuation allowance to the extent the future realization of the deferred tax assets is not judged to be more likely than not. The Company considers many factors when assessing the likelihood of future realization of its deferred tax assets, including its recent cumulative earnings experience by taxing jurisdiction, expectations of future taxable income or loss, the carryforward periods available to the Company for tax reporting purposes, and other relevant factors.
Future changes in the unrecognized tax benefit will have no impact on the effective tax rate due to the existence of the valuation allowance. The Company estimates that the unrecognized tax benefit will not change significantly within the next twelve months. The Company will continue to classify income tax penalties and interest as part of general and administrative expense in its consolidated statements of operations. There were no interest or penalties accrued as of December 31, 2018 and 2017.
Note 12 - Related Parties
Related parties are natural persons or other entities that have the ability, directly or indirectly, to control another party or exercise significant influence over the party in making financial and operating decisions. Related parties include other parties that are subject to common control or that are subject to common significant influences. All of the Company’s revenue for the years ended December 31, 2017 and $180,000 of the Company’s revenue for the years ended December 31, 2018 is from IT services delivered to a single customer, Guardian LLC, which is a related party to the Company. The revenue generated from Guardian LLC was paid to the Company via a reduction in the amount that the Company owes Guardian LLC that is classified as Due to Guardian LLC in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. All expenses in the Company’s operations were incurred as a consequence of delivering Company’s obligations under the joint venture agreement between the parties to commercialize the technology that is being developed by the LLC.
On April 22, 2015, Michael Murray was appointed by the Company as the Chairman of the Board, CEO, and President of the Company. Mr. Murray resigned as an executive officer on September 1, 2017. On March 4, 2015, the Company entered into a Territorial License Agreement with Hermes Roll, LLC (“Hermes”), which is the basis for the Company’s current operations. Mr. Murray was the owner of 9,900 shares of Series D Preferred Stock of the Company that was convertible at Mr. Murray’s election into 9,900,000 shares of common stock. To date, Mr. Murray has converted all of his Series D Preferred Stock into common shares of the Company.
On June 30, 2015, the Company appointed Dr. Danny Rittman as Chief Technical Officer and a board member. On August 20, 2015, the Company entered into an agreement with Dr. Rittman pursuant to which the parties agreed that (i) all inventions, improvements and developments made or conceived by Dr. Rittman, either solely or in collaboration with others pertaining to Company’s business, will be the property of Company, and (ii) Dr. Rittman will assign to the Company any and all intellectual property related to the Company’s consumer heuristic technology platform. The agreement with Dr. Rittman was contingent upon the Company funding its commitments per the June 16, 2015 - Amended and Restated Territorial License Agreement. Failure of the Company providing this funding, in full, or partially, will automatically terminate any GOPH ownership of the intellectual properties. Dr. Rittman is the Chief Technology Officer and a director of the Company as well as the Chairman of the Company’s Advisory Board, which is in formation. Dr. Rittman and Mr. Murray jointly own 9,900 shares of Series D Preferred Stock of the Company that is convertible at Dr. Rittman’s or Mr. Murray’s election into 9,900,000 shares of common stock. To date, Mr. Rittman has converted all of his Series D Preferred Stock into common shares of the Company.
F- 30
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
On August 20, 2015, the Company entered into an agreement with Dr. Rittman pursuant to which the parties agreed that (i) all inventions, improvements and developments made or conceived by Dr. Rittman, either solely or in collaboration with others pertaining to Company’s business, will be the property of Company, and (ii) Dr. Rittman agreed to assign to the Company any and all intellectual property related to the Company’s consumer heuristic technology platform, subject to certain conditions. The Company has expensed the stated value of that intellectual property in these financial statements.
On or around March 18, 2016 the Company and Dr. Danny Rittman entered into an agreement intended to clarify the relationship between Dr. Rittman and the Company and the ownership of certain technology in connection with certain agreements previously entered into between Company and Dr. Rittman and with third parties. Specifically, the Company entered into that certain Territorial License Agreement with Hermes dated March 4, 2015, which such agreement was amended to expand the related territorial license to a worldwide license pursuant to that certain Amended and Restated Territorial License Agreement dated June 16, 2015 (the “Amended and Restated Territorial License Agreement”), and that certain Letter Agreement (the “Letter Agreement”) entered into between Dr. Rittman and the Company dated August 20, 2015. The aforementioned agreements were tied to the funding of the Company in the minimum amount of $5,000,000 (the “Required Funding”) and the assignment to the Company and/or ownership by the Company of all past, present and future technology in the form of intellectual property, including, but not limited to patents, trademarks, domains, applications, social media pages (e.g. Twitter, LinkedIn and landing pages) (collectively, the “IP”), which such IP was paid for exclusively by Dr. Rittman and/or his affiliated companies, was contingent upon the Company obtaining the Required Funding by no later than October 30, 2015 (the “Contingency”). Accordingly, it was agreed to by the parties that all inventions, improvements and developments made or conceived by the Dr. Rittman, either solely or in collaboration with others pertaining to Company’s business, would be the property of the Company subject to the Contingency. In the event the Contingency was not met, the Letter Agreement would be cancelled and rendered null and void. The Company acknowledged that the Company did not meet the Contingency, technically resulting in the cancellation of the Letter Agreement and rendering the Letter Agreement null and void. Moreover, the Company failed to meet its obligations under the Amended and Restated Territorial License Agreement, including the further development of the consumer heuristic technology platform, thereby creating a vacuum in its development in all aspects, including the ability to obtain funding, resulting in the need for Dr. Rittman’s partners to perform the necessary development work related to the above agreements.
In March 2016, the Company and Dr. Danny Rittman, Co-Chairman, CTO and a shareholder, entered into an agreement intended to clarify the relationship between Dr. Rittman and the Company and the ownership of certain technology in connection with certain agreements previously entered into between Company and Dr. Rittman and with third parties. Prior to these agreements, the Company is the exclusive license holder for certain intellectual property relating to Hermes’ system and method for scheduling categorized deliverables, according to demand, at the customer’s location based on smartphone application and/or via the internet. As a result of these agreements, the Company shall remain an exclusive licensee per the terms of the original License Agreement and will develop the first products with Dr. Rittman and his partners.
On April 6, 2018, the Company and Danny Rittman, Chief Technology Officer and a Director of the Company, agreed to amend his employment agreement pursuant to which he will receive salary at the rate of $250,000 annually payable in equal increments of $15,000 per month. An additional $70,000 shall be payable within 15 days of the end of the calendar year.
On March 29, 2016, Gopher contributed all of its rights relating to its proprietary microchip that is within a sticky patch package (the “Patch”) to Guardian LLC in consideration of 50% of the profit generated by Guardian LLC (the “Joint Venture”). Guardian LLC is responsible for investing all needed funds for the purpose of developing the Patch and related products to the Patch. In addition, Guardian LLC is required to provide short term loans to Gopher on an as needed basis secured by Gopher’s economic interest in the Joint Venture. The Company will provide IT services to Guardian LLC for a monthly fee. Dr. Rittman has signed an amendment employment agreement with the Company.
F- 31
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The Company is the exclusive license holder for certain intellectual property relating to GopherInsight technology. The Company has assigned all its rights as they relate to the Guardian Patch to Guardian LLC as consideration for the JV. Guardian LLC has commenced development of the products. Certain private investors will provide all initial funding to the Company via the LLC for product development. Guardian LLC will fund the development, and the Company will provide IT services via Dr. Rittman for a monthly fee. Dr. Rittman has signed an amendment employment agreement with the Company. As the Company is not a member of Guardian LLC, the Company and Guardian LLC have formed a Joint Venture (“JV”) for the purposes of developing and marketing the Patch. Guardian LLC will be responsible for funding the development of the Patch. The Company will not need be required to invest funds in said JV. The Company responsibilities will be limited to the marketing of the product, where the marketing budget will be funded by Guardian LLC. Moreover, Guardian LLC has committed to provide the Company with working capital as needed. The Company has assigned and pledged to the LLC all its license derivative rights as they pertain to the Patch only. Dr. Rittman may be offered membership rights at some point in the future with Guardian LLC, with which the Company is a JV partner, but is not equity member. The Company has agreed with Guardian LLC that the same JV principles of the Guardian LLC for the patch will apply for the other two products (Epsilon and Puzpix) which will be vested under designated LLCs that will be incorporated by the LLC members. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, $180,000 and $180,000, respectively, of the Company’s revenue was related to IT service provided to the LLC for Dr. Rittman services, in connection with the development of the Patch.
On July 21, 2016 members of the Guardian LLC, together with Dr. Rittman, incorporated Alpha EDA, LLC (“Alpha”). The members of the LLC appointed Dr. Rittman as the manager of Alpha. The Company, the LLC and Alpha have agreed that all Epsilon Rights, as well as Puzpix rights, will be assigned to Alpha. Alpha and the Company entered into a JV agreement similar to the Patch Joint Venture agreement (as described above), whereby Alpha will fund all of its operational and developmental needs (software development, support, marketing and administrative), and the profits of Alpha will be distributed equally to the two equal Joint venture partners, Guardian LLC and the Company. Alpha will hold all intellectual property rights related to software. Currently, three products will be owned by Alpha – the Epsilon software, the Puzpix social game and the Guardian Pack application. The Company and its technology licensing partners, Guardian LLC and Alpha, are preparing to introduce said new products (Epsilon, Guardian Pack & PuzPix) to the market beginning in 2018, and the Sphere during the second half of fiscal 2017. Certain problems caused by the need to miniaturize both the chip design and the battery caused a delay in the rollout from its planned launch during the first half of the year. The Epsilon product will be presented for time-based license agreements utilizing a designated website on top of customary distributing channels for the product. Epsilon is under confidential evaluation agreement with third party.
On September 25, 2018, the Company entered into a Joint Venture Interest Purchase Agreement with Guardian, LLC pursuant to which the Company purchased Guardian LLC’s 50% interest in a joint venture (the “JV Interest”) previously entered between the parties in March 2016 covering the Guardian Patch, Puzpix and Epsilon. In consideration for the JV Interest, the Company issued Guardian 12,500,000 shares of common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company took a charge to earnings of $11,750,000 related to the purchase of Guardian LLC’s 50% JV Interest.
On September 14, 2018, the Company and Dr. Rittman entered into a letter agreement confirming that the Company is the owner of all intellectual property developed by Dr. Rittman relating to the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, including a global platform with both mobile and fixed solutions, commencing June 16, 2015 and continuing until Dr. Rittman’s employment agreement is terminated.
During 2016, the Company relocated its headquarters to 2500 Broadway, Suite F-125, Santa Monica, California. The Company paid approximately $5,000 per month in rent for this office space, and paid a $1,979 security deposit that is classified in our financial statements contained herein as a prepaid expense. The lease is being paid for by the Guardian LLC via reimbursement. The Company moved into smaller office space during the quarter, and its security deposit was adjusted downward to cover the smaller space in April 2016. The Company believes its current facilities will be adequate for the foreseeable future.
F- 32
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The Company has commenced development, and the Company has completed the Statement of Work (SOW) for the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) survey to deploy the Company’s Guardian Global Tracking Device within the continental US. The Company has also completed their transmitters/transceivers modules feasibility research. Although the Company can use open channels, and therefore is not required to comply with various FCC regulations relevant to the system, the Company has chosen to comply, and is complying with FCC regulations. The FCC regulates the limits of potentially harmful interference to licensed transmitters due to low power unlicensed transmitters. The Guardian Patch/Sphere system consists of advanced security protocols in order to maintain the global, private, fully-secured network. In addition, the Guardian Patch device needs to perform communication tasks across the globe providing breakthrough tracking features. The Company and its technology licensing partner, Guardian LLC, successfully completed thorough research that involved security, performance and FCC regulations compliance. Based on this research, a set of particular frequencies was chosen to be used by Guardian LLC. By the end of this year, the Company completed the design and construction of the Guardian Patch/Sphere circuit prototype device. The Company has completed the construction of 10 prototype units, and performed intensive testing program to be tested as a complete system in designated areas by the Company. On December 1, 2016, Guardian LLC issued Statement of Work for the Placement and Development of Guardian Sphere and its Base System. For this project, Guardian LLC has assembled a team of eight, including a Project Manager, CTO, digital and software engineers, a specialist algorithm mathematician and project leader. This team was assembled by Guardian LLC, and is based in the USA, Europe and Asia. Per the Joint Venture agreement, Guardian LLC is funding the SOW project through its sources, while the Company’s portion of the cost is $67,000 and due to the vendor on August 15, 2017. Guardian took full responsibility for all amounts due to this vendor. The Company intends to enter a new SOW for the purpose of creating fully-commercial products utilizing the manufacturers that it has identified.
On June 20, 2016, two holders (the “Preferred Stock Holders”) of an aggregate of 2,400 shares of Series D Preferred Stock (the “Preferred Shares”) of the Company converted the Preferred Shares into an aggregate of 2,400,000 shares of common stock of the Company at $0.01 per share. The Preferred Stock Holders are executive officers and directors of the Company.
On August 9, 2016, two holders (the “Preferred Stock Holders”) of an aggregate of 17,400 shares of Series D Preferred Stock (the “Preferred Shares”) of the Company executed conversion notices to convert the Preferred Shares into an aggregate of 17,400,000 shares of common stock of the Company at $0.01 per share. The Preferred Stock Holders are executive officers and directors of the Company.
Effective August 15, 2016, the Employment Agreement of Mansour Khatib, our CMO, was amended and restated as follows: Upon the Company generating $1,000,000 in revenue during any three (3) month period (the “Threshold Requirement”), the Executive will receive salary at the rate of $100,000 annually (the “Base Salary”); provided, however, that that Company shall pay to Executive $5,000 per month (the “Monthly Salary Advance”) commencing on August 15, 2016, which such Monthly Salary Advance shall be an advance on the Base Salary and shall continue to be paid to Executive until such time that the Company launches its GopherInsight™ technology into the consumer markets. Once the Threshold Requirement is met, the Base Salary will be payable in equal increments not less often than monthly in arrears and in any event consistent with the Company’s payroll policy and practices. The Base Salary of the Executive may from time to time be increased, but not decreased, by the Board, in its absolute discretion, including potential bonuses.”
Since April 2016, Guardian LLC has provided loans to the Company for the Company’s working capital purposes, outside of its commitment to develop the Patch, in the aggregate amount of $660,132 (the “Loans”). On May 23, 2017, the Company entered into a Conversion Agreement with Guardian LLC pursuant to which the parties agreed to convert the Loans provided by Guardian LLC to the Company into a Convertible Promissory Note in the principal amount of $660,132 (the “Note”).
The Note bears interest at 6%, matures May 30, 2019 and is convertible into the Company’s common stock, at Guardian LLC’s option, at a conversion price equal to 50% of the lowest closing price for the common stock on the principal market during the ten consecutive trading days immediately preceding the conversion date, which, in no event, will be less than $0.01 per share. Guardian LLC has agreed to restrict their ability to convert the Note and receive shares of common stock such that the number of shares of common stock held by them in the aggregate and their affiliates after such conversion or exercise does not exceed 4.9% of the then issued and outstanding shares of common stock.
F- 33
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Guardian LLC (the “Note Holder”) understands that the Company may be seeking additional capital or funding and believes that the lock-up and leak-out restrictions and provisions, as further described herein, will improve the Company’s prospects for obtaining additional financing and thus improving the overall financial condition of the Company. As such on or around June 26, 2017 the Company and the Note Holder entered into a lock-up and leak-out:
| 1. | Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Note Holder agrees that for a period of nine (9) months from the Effective Date of this Agreement (the “Lock-Up Period”), the Note Holder shall not convert the Note into Common Stock for safe keeping or, directly or indirectly, sell, offer to sell, contract to sell, assign, pledge, hypothecate, encumber or otherwise transfer, or enter into any contract, option or other arrangement or understanding with respect to the sale, assignment, pledge or other disposition of (each a “Transfer”) any beneficial rights with respect to the Note. |
| 2. | Leak-Out Provisions. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Note Holder agrees that for a period beginning immediately upon the end of the Lock-Up Period and ending fifteen (15) months from the Effective Date of this Agreement (the “Leak-Out Period”), the Note Holder shall have the right to sell the lessor of (i) five (5%) percent of the previous day’s traded volume of the Company’s Common Stock, or (ii) Five Thousand (5,000) shares of the Common Stock on a per daily basis. |
On December 29, 2017, all the principal and accrued interest were converted into 2,000,000 share of Series G preferred stock.
On September 1, 2017, the Company entered into and closed an Asset Purchase Agreement with a third party, RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC (“RWJ”), a Georgia corporation, pursuant to which the Company purchased certain assets from RWJ, including inventory, terminals, licenses and permits and intangible assets. At closing, the Company and Mr. Greg Bauer entered into an Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Bauer was retained as Chief Executive Officer for a term of one year, subject to an automatic extension, unless terminated, in consideration of a base salary of $250,000 and a bonus of 10% of net profit generated by the assets acquired. Mr. Bauer was also appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company. As of the closing date, Mr. Murray resigned as Chief Executive Officer of the Company but will remain as a director of the Company. Mr. Bauer, since 2004 through present, has served as executive director with W.L. Petrey Wholesale, Inc. where he was in charge of the UGO/Preway operations. Mr. Bauer holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Maryland College Park. Mr. Bauer is veteran of the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1983. He held the title of United States Navy Surface Warfare Qualified. In May 2018, Mr. Bauer’s resigned as Chief Executive Officer and director of the Company (See Note 13).
The Company and Guardian LLC, which assisted structuring and negotiating the Purchase Agreement and related asset purchase, entered into a Consulting Agreement dated September 1, 2017. In consideration for the services, the Company issued Guardian 2,000,000 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 9,000,000 shares of common stock. The warrants contain identical terms to the RJW Warrants. If and when the assets acquired under the Purchase Agreement generate revenues of $10,000,000, the Company shall issue Guardian an additional 3,000,000 shares of common stock. The consulting agreement was effective August 1, 2017 and terminates November 30, 2017. Guardian, pursuant to its existing joint venture agreement, agreed to provide the $400,000 in funding needed for the cash purchase price under the Purchase Agreement. Guardian also agreed to provide the needed $100,000 working capital designated to UGopherServices Corp.
In order to facilitate the transition of the Company, the Company and Michael Murray have agreed to enter into an employment agreement in which Mr. Murray will serve as Executive Vice President in charge of business development. As consideration, the Company issued a warrant to acquire 4,000,000 shares of common stock to Mr. Murray. The warrants contain identical terms to the RJW Warrants.
F- 34
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Regulatory
The Company has commenced development, and the Company has completed the Statement of Work (SOW) for the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) survey to deploy the Company’s Guardian Global Tracking Device within the continental US. The Company has also completed their transmitters/transceivers modules feasibility research. Although the Company can use open channels, and therefore is not required to comply with various FCC regulations relevant to the system, the Company has chosen to comply, and is complying with FCC regulations. The FCC regulates the limits of potentially harmful interference to licensed transmitters due to low power unlicensed transmitters. The Guardian Patch/Sphere system consists of advanced security protocols in order to maintain the global, private, fully-secured network. In addition, the Guardian Patch device needs to perform communication tasks across the globe providing breakthrough tracking features. The Company and its technology licensing partner, Guardian LLC, successfully completed thorough research that involved security, performance and FCC regulations compliance. Based on this research, a set of particular frequencies was chosen to be used by Guardian LLC. By the end of this year, the Company completed the design and construction of the Guardian Patch/Sphere circuit prototype device. The Company has completed the construction of 10 prototype units, and performed intensive testing program to be tested as a complete system in designated areas by the Company. On December 1, 2016, Guardian LLC issued Statement of Work for the Placement and Development of Guardian Sphere and its Base System. For this project, Guardian LLC has assembled a team of eight, including a Project Manager, CTO, digital and software engineers, a specialist algorithm mathematician and project leader. This team was assembled by Guardian LLC, and is based in the USA, Europe and Asia. Per the Joint Venture agreement, Guardian LLC is funding the SOW project through its sources.
Note 13 - Contingencies
Legal Proceedings
From time to time, the Company may be involved in various litigation matters, which arise in the ordinary course of business. There is currently no litigation that management believes will have a material impact on the financial position of the Company.
On June 10, 2016, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Waterford Group LLC (“Waterford”) pursuant to which the Company engaged Waterford to provide sales and marketing consulting and advisory services to the Company in consideration of 100,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company (the “Shares”) and a common stock purchase warrant (the “Warrant”) to acquire 750,000 shares of restricted common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $2.25 per share for a period of five (5) years. 50,000 of the Shares were issued to Waterford upon the execution of the Agreement. The Warrant vested on a quarterly basis in eight (8) equal quarterly installments each in the amount of 93,750 shares each quarter during the term of the Agreement. The first quarterly installment vested upon the execution of the Agreement and each subsequent quarterly installment was to vest each quarter thereafter. The Company believes that Waterford is in default of its agreement, as it failed to perform or provide any services under the agreement. As such, the Company put Waterford on notice in writing that the Company did not issue shares or warrants during the third or fourth fiscal quarters of 2016 due to the default.
On or around January 23, 2017, the Company filed a complaint against Waterford and the Company’s Transfer Agent, in Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside. On February 1, 2017, the Company obtained a temporary restraining order that prohibits Waterford from (x) lifting the restricted legend from the 50,000 shares that it received in connection with signing the Agreement; (y) selling the 50,000 shares to another party; and, (z) from exercising the warrant on 93,750 shares that was issued and vested upon the execution of the Agreement. As ordered by the court, on February 9, 2017, the Company deposited a Corporate Surety Bond in the amount of $42,875 to secure the temporary restraining order. The Company agreed with Waterford to go to binding arbitration, which is currently being scheduled.
On or around February 27, 2017, the Company was issued a stay of the temporary restraining order barring its transfer agent from providing shares in connection with the exercise of the first Waterford warrant on 93,750 shares that was provided to Waterford in connection with the execution of the engagement letter that was executed by the parties on or around June 10, 2016. On October 12, 2018, the Waterford legal matter was settled in favor of the Company that resulted in the cancelation of Waterford’s 93,750 warrants and the cancelation of 50,000 shares of the Company’s common stock owned by Waterford.
F- 35
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
On or around April 10, 2017, the Company was billed by its transfer agent (“TA”) for approximately $11,500 for legal fees (“TA Charges”) in connection with a lawsuit brought by one of the Company’s shareholders against the TA. The Company is not a named party in this litigation. The Company disputes the TA Charges, as the Company’s position is that the TA Charges are not covered under the indemnification section of the Company’s agreement with its TA. As the TA refused to provide further services, the Company paid the fees, and booked it as an expense in 2017. This matter has been resolved amicably, and the Company continues its relationship with the TA.
On or around January 30, 2019, RWJ Advanced Marketing, LLC, Greg Bauer, and Warren Jackson sued the Company in Superior Court of the State of California - County of Los Angeles, General District in connection with the acquisition of UGopherServices in September 2017. The case number is 19STCV03320. The lawsuit alleges breach of contract, among other causes of action. The Company answered the complaint and filed a cross-complaint against the plaintiffs in the case on or around February 15, 2019.
Spare CS, Inc.
On January 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Initial Term Agreement (the “ITA”) with Spare CS Inc. (“Spare”), a Delaware corporation, pursuant to which the Company agreed to acquire 50% of the equity of Spare. Spare is a mobile banking app that allows customers to access cash with no ATM, no debit or credit card, and no purchase required from participating merchants. During the years ended December 31, 2018, the Company terminated the ITA with Spare and wrote off the $265,000 that has been advanced to Spare. The $265,000 in included as part of the impairment of assets in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
GBT Technologies, S.A.
On June 12, 2018, the Company entered into a Letter of Intent (the “LOI”) with Gopher Protocol Costa Rica, S.R.L. (“Gopher CR”), a partially owned subsidiary of the Company, GBT Technologies, S.A., a Costa Rican company (“GBT”) and Tokenize-IT, S.A. (“Tokenize”). The LOI contemplates the acquisition of Tokenize by Gopher CR and the issuance of 20 million shares of common stock of the Company (the “GOPH Shares”) to Tokenize. Concurrent with the acquisition, Tokenize will enter into a joint venture agreement with GBT pursuant to which Tokenize will transfer and assign the GOPH Shares to GBT and issue equity securities of Tokenize providing GBT with 50% equity ownership in Tokenize with the balance owned by Gopher CR in consideration of GBT providing Tokenize with access to its currency trading platform that is a fully licensed and Central Bank regulated “Currency Exchange” in Costa Rica.
No assurance can be given that a definitive agreement will be entered into, that the appropriate governing bodies including the Company’s board of directors will approve such transactions, that the proposed transactions contemplated above will be consummated, or that Tokenize will be able to obtain adequate funds needed to fund its business plan.
On September 14, 2018, the Company entered into an Exclusive Intellectual Property License and Royalty Agreement (the “GBT License Agreement”) with GBT, a fully compliant and regulated cryptocurrency exchange platform that currently operates in Costa Rica as a decentralized cryptocurrency platform, pursuant to which, among other things, the Company granted to GBT an exclusive, royalty-bearing right and license relating intellectual property relating to systems and methods of converting electronic transmissions into digital currency as reflected in that certain patent filed with the United Stated Patent and Trademark Office on or about June 14, 2018 (EFS ID: 32893586; Application Number: 16008069; Type: Utility under 35 USC 111(a); Confirmation Number: 6787)(collectively, the “Digital Currently Technology”). Pursuant to the GBT License Agreement, the Company granted GBT an exclusive worldwide license to use the Digital Currency Technology to make, use, sell, lease or otherwise commercialize and dispose of products and devices utilizing the Digital Currently Technology.
F- 36
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Under the terms of the GBT License Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive a royalty payment of 2% of gross revenue of each licensed product sold by GBT during the period starting in which revenue is first generated using the licensed products and continuing for five years thereafter. Upon signing the GBT License Agreement, GBT paid the Company $300,000 which is nonrefundable. The Company has recognized the $300,000 as revenue during the years ended December 31, 2018. Upon GBT making available for sale (the “Commercial Event”) an ICO (Initial Coin Offering) (the “Coin”), GBT will make a payment to the Company in the amount of $5,000,000. Further, upon the Commercial Event, GBT will grant the Company the ability to acquire 30% of the Coin at a 30% discount of such offering price of the Coin. The GBT License Agreement commenced as of the signing date and, unless terminated in accordance with the termination provisions of the GBT License Agreement, shall remain in force until the expiration of the patent pertaining to the Digital Currency Technology; provided that the right to use trade secrets shall survive the expiration of the GBT License Agreement provided the Company has not terminated. Prior to the signing of the GBT License Agreement, GBT advanced $200,000 to the Company, which the parties have agreed will be applied toward the $5,000,000 fee when it becomes due. The $200,000 is recorded as unearned revenue at December 31, 2018 in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
Note 14 – Concentrations
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk, consist principally of temporary cash investments. There have been no losses in these accounts through December 31, 2018.
In 2017, the Company had one customer that contributed 100% of its revenues. Per the terms of the JV with Guardian LLC, Guardian LLC has committed to fund all Company’s needs, as well as needs of the JV. Failure of Guardian LLC to provide the Company or the JV with said funding would represent a significant Credit Risk. As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 the Company has a payable to Guardian LLC of $702,483 and $1,350,262, respectively.
Note 15 - Subsequent Events
Management has evaluated events that occurred subsequent to the end of the reporting period shown herein:
On January 1, 2019, the Company and Douglas Davis entered into an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Davis was retained as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Davis has served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since July 2018. The term of Mr. Davis’ employment is for two years through January 1, 2021. Mr. Davis will be entitled to an annual base salary of $250,000, which shall be increased to $400,000 upon the Company uplisting to a national exchange. Mr. Davis is also be entitled to the issuance of Stock Options to acquire an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company, exercisable for five years, subject to vesting. The options will be earned and vested (i) with respect to 2,000,000 shares of common stock on the date hereof, (ii) 500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful dual list of the Company on an international exchange such as SIX Zurich Stock Exchange or Euronext, (iii) 1,500,000 shares of common stock upon the successful up listing to a national exchange such as the Nasdaq, NYSE Euronext, TSX, AMEX or other, and (iv) with respect to 500,000 shares of common stock at each of the six (6) month anniversaries (July 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020). The exercise price of such options shall be the closing price of the Company on the date prior to such event.
On January 8, 2019, the Company entered into a Stock Pledge Agreement with Latin American Exchange Latinex Casa de Cambio, S.A., a Costa Rica corporation (“Latinex”). Latinex is a fully licensed and Central Bank regulated “Currency Exchange” in Costa Rica. In order to provide that Latinex may maintain its required regulatory capital as required by various regulators, the Company has pledged restricted shares of its common stock valued at $7.5 million for a term of three years in consideration of an annual payment of $375,000 paid in quarterly installments of $93,750. In lieu of cash payment, Latinex may pay the Company in virtual currency of WISE Network S.A. valued at a 50% discount of its offering price of $10 per token. In the event Latinex’s required capital has decreased below $5,000,000, Latinex is permitted to sell the pledged shares of common stock only in an amount to ensure that Latinex can satisfy the required capital levels. The Company must consent to such sale of the shares of common stock, if at all, which may not be unreasonably withheld. Upon expiration of the agreement, the remaining shares of common stock shall be returned to the Company free and clear of all liens.
F- 37
GOPHER PROTOCOL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
On February 6, 2019, the Company entered into a letter agreement with Gopher Protocol Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsabilidad Limitada, a Costa Rican company (“Gopher CR”) and a 50% owned subsidiary of the Company, pursuant to which the Company sold 30,000,000 shares of Mobiquity Technologies, Inc., a New York corporation (“Mobiquity”) to Gopher CR in the principal amount of $5,000,000 secured by all of the assets of Gopher CR payable with 10% interest on the two year anniversary.
On February 27, 2019, the Company entered into a note purchase agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) with Iliad Research and Trading, L.P. (“Iliad”), pursuant to which the Company issued a promissory note for the original principal amount of $2,325,000 (the “Note”). Iliad gave consideration of $2,025,000 for the Note. The outstanding balance of the Note is to be paid on the one-year anniversary of the issuance of the Note. Interest on the Note accrues at the rate of 10% per annum compounding daily. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Note, the Company may prepay all or any portion of the outstanding balance of the Note at any time in an amount in cash equal to 120% of the amount repaid. In connection with transactions that generate less than $1,000,000 in proceeds, the Company has agreed to not issue any debt instrument or incurrence of any debt other than trade payables in the ordinary course of business, any securities or agreements to sell common stock with anti-dilution or price reset/reduction features or any securities that are or may be become convertible or exercisable into common stock with a price that varies with the market price of the common stock (collectively, “Restricted Issuance Transaction”). The outstanding balance of the Note will be increased by 5% in the event the Company enters into a Restricted Issuance Transaction that is approved by Iliad.
In January and February 2019 an investor converted $930,000 of convertible debentures and $52,253 of accrued interest into 5,158,650 shares of common stock.
F- 38
Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION
OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Douglas Davis, Chief Executive Officer, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Gopher Protocol Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant) and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal controls over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls over financial reporting.
| Date: March 27, 2019 | /s/ Douglas Davis | |
| Douglas Davis, | ||
|
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION
OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
I, Kevin Pickard, Chief Financial Officer, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Gopher Protocol Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant) and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal controls over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls over financial reporting.
| Date: March 27, 2019 | /s/ Kevin Pickard | |
| Kevin Pickard, | ||
|
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION
PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Douglas Davis, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| Date: March 27, 2019 | /s/ Douglas Davis | |
| Douglas Davis, | ||
|
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION
PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of Gopher Protocol Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Kevin Pickard, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| Date: March 27, 2019 | /s/ Kevin Pickard | |
| Kevin Pickard, | ||
|
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |