UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q/A
(Mark One)
[x] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended December 31, 1997
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _________________to _______________
Commission file number 0-27803
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 87-0547337
State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization Identification No.)
3280 North Frontage Road, Lehi, Utah 84043
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(801) 768-4481
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No[ ]
APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's
classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class of Stock Amount Outstanding
$.001 par value Common Stock 9,210,575 Shares of Common Stock
at February 12, 1998
1
<PAGE>
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A amends the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarterly period ended December 31, 1997.
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL INFORMATION..................................... 3
Consolidated Balance Sheets - At December 31, 1997 and
September 30, 1997
Consolidated Statements of Operation - For the Three Months
Ended December 31, 1997 and 1996
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow - For the Three Months
Ended December 31, 1997 and 1996
Notes to Financial Statements
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.......................12
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
RISK......................................................17
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.........................................18
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.................18
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES...........................20
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.......20
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION.........................................20
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
EXHIBIT 27.1 FINANCIAL DATA SCHEDULE
Statements in this Form 10-Q, including those concerning the
Registrant's expectations regarding its business, and certain of the
information presented in this report, constitute forward looking
statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act of 1995. As such, actual results may vary materially from
such expectations. For a discussion of the factors which could cause
actual results to differ from expectations, please see the caption
entitled "Forward Looking Statements" in ITEM 2 hereof. There can be no
assurance that the Registrant's results of operations will not be
adversely affected by such factors.
2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
------------------------------
As of As of
September 30, December 31,
1997 1997
----------------- ------------------
ASSETS
Current assets:
<S> <C> <C>
Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,780,301 $ 2,565,563
Receivables 12,595 12,595
Receivable - stock subscriptions 577,500 0
Inventories 1,818,991 2,741,454
Advances on inventories 1,086,964 1,480,960
Notes receivable - related parties, current 275,516 297,399
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 51,865 59,855
----------------- ------------------
Total current assets 8,603,732 7,157,826
----------------- ------------------
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 13,619,271 20,512,871
----------------- ------------------
Other assets:
Cash surrender value of life insurance 184,592 184,592
Note receivable 0 812,250
Notes receivable - related parties, non-current 3,816,604 3,794,721
Deposits and other assets 136,615 138,015
----------------- ------------------
Total other assets 4,137,811 4,929,578
----------------- ------------------
Total assets $ 26,360,814 $ 32,600,275
================= ==================
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of the consolidated financial statements
3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
------------------------------
As of As of
September 30, December 31,
1997 1997
----------------- ------------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
<S> <C> <C>
Accounts payable $ 1,045,147 $ 974,047
Payable for coal briquetting equipment 1,967,686 1,976,564
Due to related party 1,038,667 1,019,029
Accrued liabilities 1,023,126 845,848
Accrued contractor liability 1,477,000 1,400,125
Advance on binder facilities 0 300,000
Notes payable and convertible debentures, current 5,247,526 7,278,812
----------------- ------------------
Total current liabilities 11,799,152 13,794,425
----------------- ------------------
Long-term liabilities:
Accrued interest 204,402 313,098
Notes payable and convertible debentures, non-current 2,900,000 6,334,059
Notes payable - related parties, non-current 489,096 433,237
Deferred revenues from advance licensing fees 1,650,000 1,650,000
Deferred compensation 223,891 226,803
----------------- ------------------
Total long-term liabilities 5,467,389 8,957,197
----------------- ------------------
Total liabilities 17,266,541 22,751,622
----------------- ------------------
Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries 3,165,996 3,080,328
----------------- ------------------
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock: $0.001 par value; authorized: 10,000,000 shares
issued
Issued and outstanding 303,024 shares at September 30, 1997 and
315,882 shares at December 31, 1997 303 316
Common stock: $0.001 par value; authorized: 25,000,000 shares
issued and outstanding 8,627,290 at September 30, 1997 and
9,210,575 at December 31 1997 8,627 9,211
Common stock to be issued: 462,285 shares at September 30, 1997
and 0 at December 31, 1997 462 0
Capital in excess of par value - preferred 5,094,634 5,184,626
Capital in excess of par value - common 41,818,549 47,058,967
Capital in excess of par value - common stock to be issued 3,291,783 0
Accumulated deficit (32,191,556) (33,307,951)
Notes and interest receivable - related parties from issuance of
or collateralized by common stock (net of allowance) (7,411,278) (7,701,088)
Deferred compensation from stock options (4,683,247) (4,475,756)
----------------- ------------------
Total stockholders' equity 5,928,277 6,768,325
----------------- ------------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 26,360,814 $ 32,600,275
================= ==================
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of the consolidated financial statements
4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
-------------------
Three Months Three Months
Ended Ended
December 31, December 31,
1996 1997
----------------- ------------------
Revenues:
<S> <C> <C>
License fees $ 0 $ 1,000,000
Synthetic fuel sales, net 104,147 0
Binder sales - related party 0 7,003
Operation and maintenance fees 0 34,622
----------------- ------------------
Total revenues 104,147 1,041,625
----------------- ------------------
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of coal briquetting operations 364,580 456,947
Research and development 105,067 155,691
Selling, general and administrative 807,314 740,554
Compensation expense on stock options, stock warrants
or issuance of common stock 312,959 207,491
Write-up of note receivable - related parties collateralized
by common stock (725,000) (292,500)
----------------- ------------------
Total operating costs and expenses 864,920 1,268,183
----------------- ------------------
Operating loss (760,773) (226,558)
----------------- ------------------
Other income (expense):
Interest income 127,806 122,003
Interest expense (65,876) (1,112,508)
Minority interest in net losses of consolidated subsidiaries 18,152 85,668
Other income 1,389 15,000
----------------- ------------------
Total other income (expense) 81,471 (889,837)
----------------- ------------------
Net loss $ (679,302) $ (1,116,395)
================= ==================
Basic loss per share (Note 9) $ (0.09) $ (0.13)
================= ==================
Weighted average shares outstanding 7,711,338 9,193,987
================= ==================
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of the consolidated financial statements
5
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
--------------------
Three Months Three Months
Ended Ended
December 31, December 31,
1996 1997
---------------- ------------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
<S> <C> <C>
Net loss $ (679,302) $ (1,116,395)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 51,346 64,540
Write-up of note receivable (725,000) (292,500)
Interest expense based upon issuance of convertible debt and warrants
at a discount 0 1,112,508
Amortization of deferred compensation on stock options 312,959 207,491
Interest earned on notes receivable - related parties,
collateralized by common stock (79,909) (310)
Loss applicable to minority interests in subsidiaries (18,152) (85,668)
Increase (decrease) from changes in assets:
Receivables (9,626) 0
Inventories (54,477) (522,263)
Advances on inventory 0 (393,996)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (6,510) (7,990)
Deposits and other assets (109,358) (1,400)
Accounts payable 410,206 (71,100)
Due to related party 0 (19,638)
Accrued liabilities 127,114 (177,278)
Accrued contractor liability 0 (76,875)
Accrued interest 0 108,696
Advance on binder facilities 0 300,000
Deferred compensation 2,765 2,912
---------------- ------------------
Net cash used in operating activities (777,944) (969,266)
---------------- ------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Cash paid for property, plant and equipment (2,142,344) (4,977,961)
Proceeds for notes receivable 0 (812,250)
Payments on notes receivable - related party 601 0
---------------- ------------------
Net cash used in investing activities (2,141,743) (5,790,211)
---------------- ------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of limited partnership interests in subsidiaries 475,000 0
Proceeds from notes payable 2,100,000 3,094,880
Payments on notes payable (339,440) (1,036)
Payments on notes payable - related parties (65,690) (55,859)
Proceeds from note receivable - related parties, collateralized
by common stock 601,500 3,000
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, (net) 0 90,005
Proceeds from issuance of common stock (net) 560,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock to be issued (net) 47,500 0
Proceeds from receivable - stock subscriptions 0 577,500
---------------- ------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 3,378,870 4,544,739
---------------- ------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash 459,183 (2,214,738)
Total cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 490,106 4,780,301
---------------- ------------------
Total cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 949,289 $ 2,565,563
================ ==================
Supplemental schedule of noncash investing and financing activities:
Payable for briquetting equipment $ 0 $ 8,878
Note payable issued for inventory 0 400,200
Note payable issued for equipment 0 1,971,301
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of the consolidated financial statements
6
<PAGE>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
---------------------------------
1. Management Opinion:
In the opinion of management, the accompanying financial statements present
fairly the financial position of Covol Technologies, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the
"Company") as of September 30, 1997 and December 31, 1997, the results of its
operations for the three months ended December 31, 1996 and December 31, 1997
and its cash flows for the three months ended December 31, 1996 and December 31,
1997. The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily
indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial
statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
have been condensed or omitted. It is suggested that these financial statements
be read in conjunction with the Company's Annual Report included in Form 10-K
for the year ended September 30, 1997.
2. Loss Per Share Calculation
During fiscal 1998 the Company adopted SFAS 128 "Earnings Per Share." Basic loss
per share is computed using only common shares outstanding. The computation of
diluted loss per common share was antidilutive in each period for which a net
loss was presented; therefore, the amounts reported for basic and diluted loss
are the same for those periods.
3. Inventories and Advances on Inventories
Inventories and advances on inventories are stated at the lower of average cost
or market, and consist of synthetic fuel, binder materials, and coal fines.
4. Change in Estimate of Fair Value of Note Receivable
During the three months ended December 31, 1997, the Company decreased the
allowance for impairment on the $5,000,000 face value note receivable from two
stockholders by $292,500 to an adjusted loan value of $1,882,500. The increase
in the allowance was based upon a $1.625 per share increase in the Company's
common stock that collateralizes the note receivable. The estimate is subject to
future fluctuations due to market changes.
5. Note Receivable
On November 14, 1997, the Company entered into a financial agreement with CoBon
Energy, L.L.C., relating to the purchase of equipment for a synthetic fuel
production facility. The original agreement provided that the Company will
purchase up to $1 million worth of equipment for use in the facility.
Subsequently, the maximum amount of the financing was increased to approximately
$1,400,000. As consideration for the loan, the Company will have the right to
receive certain royalties from the sale of the facility is not completed for any
reason, the Company will retain title to the purchased equipment. The Company
has paid or incurred costs totaling $812,250 for equipment as of December 31,
1997.
6. Advance on Binder Facilities
In December 1997, the Company received three advances of $100,000 in December
1997 from PacifiCorp Syn Fuel, L.L.C. for three binder facilities under
construction.
7
<PAGE>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
---------------------------------
7. Notes Payable
A.J.G. Financial Services, Inc.
During October 1997, the Company entered into an agreement with A.J.G. Financial
Services, Inc. to provide financing for the building of a wash plant at an
interest rate of 6%. In addition, the Company granted warrants in an amount
equal to 10% of the amount financed. Half of these warrants have a strike price
of $10 and half have a strike price of $20. During the quarter ended December
31, 1997, the Company borrowed $2,382,900 under this agreement. Based upon the
market price of the Company's stock on the date of the agreement, $398,222 of
interest expense was recognized during the quarter related to the warrants
issued.
PacifiCorp Financial Services, Inc.
During December 1997, the Company executed a Convertible Loan and Security
Agreement with PacifiCorp Financial Services, Inc. ("PFS"). The agreement
modifies an agreement reached on March 20, 1997 which provides funding for
completing construction of the Alabama project and acquiring coal fines and for
other purposes related to the project. The modification increased the amount
available from $5,000,000 to $7,000,000 with a provision that borrowings up to
the greater of actual borrowings or $6,000,000 are convertible into common stock
under the same terms as the original March 20, 1997 agreement (at a price of
$7.00 per share). Based upon the revised terms an expense of $714,286 was
incurred during the quarter for conversion rights issued at a price below
market.
DTE Energy Services, Inc.
In October 1997, the Company entered into a financial agreement with DTE Energy
Services, Inc. (DTE) relating to the purchase of equipment for up to two
synthetic fuel production facilities. The agreement allows the Company to borrow
up to $2,000,000 with interest at LIBOR plus 1.0% (LIBOR was 6.84% on December
31, 1997). The Company has drawn $559,334 under the agreement at December 31,
1997. Amounts are due at the earlier of the closing of alternative financing or
December 31, 1998.
Property Purchase
In October 1997, the Company purchased an 8,000 square-foot site located in
Price, Utah, on which the Company's prototype briquetting plant is located, for
$150,000. Included in the purchase was a 1,400 square-foot office building which
houses equipment. The property is subject to a 10-year $100,000 mortgage held by
the seller. The equity in the property was pledged as part of the collateral for
a $2.9 Million loan to the Company from Gallagher.
8
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
---------------------------------
8. Stockholders' Equity
The table below presents the activity in stockholders' equity from October 1,
1997 through December 31, 1997.
Notes and
interest
receivable-
related
parties from Deferred
Preferred Stock Common Stock Common Stock to be issued issuance of, compen-
Capital in Capital in Capital in Accumu- or collater- sation
excess of excess of excess of lated alized by, on stock
Share Amount par valued Share Amount par valued Share Amount par value Deficit common stock options
----- ------ ---------- ----- ------ ---------- ----- ------ --------- ------- ------------ -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at
October 1, 1997 303,024 $303 $5,094,634 8,627,290 $8,627 $41,818,549 462,285 $462 $3,291,783($32,191,556)($7,411,278)($4,683,247)
Common stock 462,285 462 3,291,783 (462,285)(462)(3,291,783)
issued for
cash received
in the previous
period
Common stock 121,000 122 836,127
issued for
cash including
exercise of
stock options
Preferred stock 12,858 13 89,992
issued for
cash (net)
Cash received in 3,000
payment on
notes receivable
- - - related parties
parties from
issuance of
common stock
Amortization of 207,491
deferred
compensation on
stock options
Interest earned on (310)
notes receivable
- - - related parties
from issuance of or
collateralized by
common stock
Interest expense 1,112,508
based upon issuance
of convertible debt
and warrants at
a discount
Write-up of note (292,500)
receivable - related
parties
Net loss for the (1,116,395)
quarter ended
December 31, 1997
------- ---- ---------- --------- ------ ----------- ---- ---- ---- ----------- ----------- -----------
Balance at 315,882 $316 $5,184,626 9,210,575 $9,211 $47,058,967 0 $0 $0($33,307,951)($7,701,088)($4,475,756)
December 31, 1997
======= ==== ========== ========= ====== =========== ==== ==== ==== =========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
9
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
---------------------------------
9. Computation of Loss Per Share
For the Three Months Ended December 31, 1997
Income Shares Per-Share
(Numerator) (Denominator) Amount
----------------- ------------ ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net Loss $ (1,116,395)
Less: Preferred stock dividends accrued (87,381)
----------------- ------------ ---------------
Loss Per Share
Net loss applicable to common $ (1,203,776) 9,193,987 $ (0.13)
stockholders
================= ============ ===============
</TABLE>
Options to purchase 1,613,500 shares of common stock at prices between $1.50 and
$9.00 per share were outstanding, net of 2,500 options exercised and 2,500
options issued, during the first quarter of fiscal 1998 but were not included in
the computation of diluted EPS because the effect would have been antidilutive.
During the three months ended December 31, 1996, options to purchase 1,366,500
shares of common stock were outstanding at prices between $1.50 and $3.50. These
options were not included in the computation of loss per share because any
effect would have been antidilutive.
Warrants to purchase 2,006,008 shares of common stock at prices between $7.00
and $30.00 per share were issued or outstanding during the first quarter of
fiscal 1998, including 348,360 warrants which were issued during the quarter and
net of 3,000 warrants which were exercised. These shares were not included
because the effect would have been antidilutive. During the three months ended
December 31, 1996, warrants to purchase 840,714 shares of common stock were
issued or outstanding at prices between $1.50 and $35.00, including issuance of
600,000 of warrants related to a stock issuance. These warrants were not
included in the computation of loss per share because any effect would have been
antidilutive.
Convertible debt of $6,712,957 was issued or outstanding during the first
quarter of fiscal 1998. The debt is convertible into 907,046 shares of common
stock. These shares were not included because the effect would be antidilutive.
During the three months ended December 31, 1996, convertible debt totaling
$2,100,000 was issued and convertible into 190,909 shares of common stock. This
convertible debt was not included in the computation of loss per share because
any effect would have been antidilutive.
Preferred stock convertible into 757,328 shares of common stock was issued or
outstanding during the first quarter of fiscal 1998. These shares were not
included because any effect would be antidilutive.
10. Contingencies
During 1996, the Company or its licensees entered into thirty contracts for the
construction of manufacturing facilities that would use the Company's
proprietary Briquetting Technology in the conversion of coal fines into
synthetic fuel. All of these construction contracts contain penalties if the
contracting party fails to proceed with the construction of these facilities.
10
<PAGE>
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
---------------------------------
10. Contingencies, Continued,
Fifteen of these construction contracts were entered into by independent third
parties and Covol Technologies was not a party. Accordingly, no liability for
failing to proceed exists with these contracts. Four contracts were entered into
jointly by Covol and its joint venture partners. The remaining eleven are Covol
contracts. Of the contracts for which Covol has liability or shared liability
there are two joint venture facilities that will not be constructed and there
are four contracts where the Company believes it is probable that the facilities
will not be constructed. As of September 30, 1997, the Company accrued a
liability of $1,477,000 for these potential penalties. During the current
quarter the Company paid penalties in the amount of $76,875. Accordingly, as of
December 31, 1997, the remaining accrued contractor liability is $1,400,125.
In April 1996, the Company entered into a sale and purchase agreement for coal
with Alabama Power Company. Due to delays associated with the financing and
construction of the Alabama Plant, the Company was unable to perform under the
contract and in February 1997 formally terminated the contract with Alabama
Power Company. While Alabama Power Company has not expressly agreed to the
termination, it has not indicated any intent to take actions against the company
as a result of the termination, nor does the Company believe any action will be
taken as a result of the termination.
In December 1996, the Company entered into six indemnification agreements in
connection with six of the construction contracts entered into by independent
third parties. These contracts contain liquidating damages of $750,000 per
contract if construction of the facilities is not completed by June 1, 1998. The
Company has indemnified the contractor for these potential liabilities. The
contracting party has decided not to construct three of these facilities.
Accordingly, the Company believes the maximum contingent liability under these
indemnification agreements is $2,250,000. The Company believes that payment of
this amount is unlikely and have therefor not recorded a liability for these
potential penalties.
The Company entered into a letter of intent with Innovative Technologies
("Innovative") in July of 1995 to apply the Company's Briquetting Technology to
certain metallic ores supplied by Innovative. The Company conducted numerous
tests of the ore through the fall of 1995, and concluded from the results that
the venture was not economically viable. Accordingly, final agreement to process
the ore was never reached. On March 4, 1997, Innovative Holding Company, Inc.,
filed a civil complaint against the Company alleging breach of the letter of
intent in the amount $500,000 plus damages. The Company intends to defend the
suit.
The Company is also involved in other legal proceedings that have arisen out of
the normal course of business. The Company believes that many of these claims
are without merit and in all cases intends to defend its position. Management
does not believe that the outcome of these activities will have a significant
effect upon the statement of operations or the financial position of the
Company.
11. Subsequent Event
On January 29, 1998, the Company entered into a loan and security agreement with
Fun Enterprises, Pty Ltd. ("Fun"), a current holder of the Company's Class B
preferred stock, relating to the development and construction of a mobile,
skid-mounted synthetic fuel production facility at a coal preparation site of an
eastern coal company. The agreement allows the Company to borrow up to
$5,800,000. The interest rate will be 12% per annum until August 31, 1998, and
15% per annum thereafter until paid. Fun will also have the right to receive
certain royalties after the facility is sold. As the date of this filing the
Company has drawn $1,800,000 on the loan. The loan is due in full at the earlier
of the sale of the facility or December 31, 1999. The Company has entered into a
letter of intent with the eastern coal company to provide feedstock for the
plant and operating and synthetic fuel sales services. Construction of the
facility has commenced.
11
<PAGE>
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
Results of Operations
Three months ended December 31, 1997 compared to three months ended December 31,
1996
Revenues. For the quarter ended December 31, 1997, total revenues increased
by $937,478 to $1,041,625 from $104,147 for the quarter ended December 31, 1996.
There were $1,000,000 in license fees recognized for the quarter ended December
31, 1997 as compared to no license fees recognized for the quarter ended
December 31, 1996. The $1 million in license fees received during the quarter
were attributable to advance license fees paid by A.J.G. Financial Services,
Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arthur J. Gallagher & Company ("Gallagher")
and AT Massey ("Massey"). There was no material production and there were no
sales of briquettes in the current period as compared to net proceeds of
$104,147 in briquette sales for the quarter ended December 31, 1996.
Notwithstanding the Utah Plant having been placed in service in early 1997, its
production and sales of synthetic fuel were significantly stopped due to the
lack of adequate quality feed stock for production at the Utah Plant. The
Company did produce approximately 18,000 tons of synthetic fuel during calendar
year 1997; however, due to high levels of ash in the feedstock and hence in the
end product, the synthetic fuel was not marketable. To remedy the problem of ash
content, the Company has constructed a wash plant for the Utah Plant and is
currently going through start-up procedures. The Company believes that as the
wash plant becomes operational, it will be able to supply sufficient quality
coal fines to the Utah Plant to allow the plant to operate at or near capacity.
The Company has had various discussions with potential end-users of the
synthetic fuel product. However, there is currently no contract or obligation in
place for the sale of the synthetic fuel produced at the Utah Plant. The Company
received revenues from related party binder sales in the amount of $7,003 for
the quarter ended December 31, 1997. No sales of binder were made in the quarter
ended December 31, 1996. The Company received revenues from operation and
maintenance fees of $34,622 for the quarter ended December 31, 1997. No revenues
from operation and maintenance fees were earned in the quarter ended December
31, 1996.
Operating Costs and Expenses. Operating costs and expenses increased
$403,263 to $1,268,183 for the quarter ended December 31, 1997 from $864,920 for
the quarter ended December 31, 1996. Operating costs and expenses attributable
to the briquetting operations increased $92,367 to $456,947 for the quarter
ended December 31, 1997 from $364,580 for the quarter ended December 31, 1996.
The costs for briquetting operations for the quarter ended December 31, 1997
were more than for the quarter ended December 31, 1996 costs due to material,
labor and other costs for the continuing refinement and implementation of the
briquetting process and is reflective of the phase of commercialization and
operation the Company was in for the current quarter as compared to the
comparable period last year. A major component of such costs is attributable to
the start-up and operation of the Utah Plant for Coaltech, L.P., a partnership
for which the Company is the general partner. When Utah Synfuel #1, a Delaware
limited partnership ("US #1"), and the Company sold the Utah Plant to Coaltech,
US #1 entered into an agreement to purchase synthetic fuel produced at the Utah
Plant for costs incurred plus $1 per ton. The Utah Plant incurred significant
costs for coal fines, labor, binder materials, repairs and maintenance,
equipment rental and other costs to work through various operational issues.
These costs are included in the synthetic fuel purchase commitment and therefore
are included in the cost of coal briquetting operations. Once the wash plant is
operational and is providing quality coal fines to the Utah Plant, the Company
anticipates that the costs incurred per ton of synthetic fuel produced will be
more in line with the marketable value of the synthetic fuel. See "ITEM 1.
BUSINESS--Business of Company--Utah Plant" of the Company's Form 10-K.
Research and development costs increased $50,624 or 48% during the quarter
ended December 31, 1997 from $105,067 for the quarter ended December 31, 1996.
This increase is due to the Company's focus of resources and efforts on the
commercialization of its synthetic fuel technology through: the construction and
start-up of its first full scale briquetting facilities, the Utah and Alabama
Plants; the licensing of the Briquetting Technology (as defined in the Company's
Form 10-K) to other licensees; and the development of other projects that will
utilize the Briquetting Technology in the manufacture of synthetic fuels. The
majority of the current quarter costs were principally attributable to research
and development efforts related to the Company's synthetic fuels technology.
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Selling, general and administrative expense decreased $66,760 or 8% to
$740,554 for the quarter ended December 31, 1997 from $807,314 for the quarter
ended December 31, 1996. The decrease related principally to reductions in costs
for administrative labor and outside professional services. The reduction in
these expenses is due to the Company's use of personnel, resources and efforts
for the commercialization of the Company's synthetic fuel technology.
Compensation expense on stock options, stock warrants and issuance of
common stock decreased $105,468 or 34% to $207,491 for the quarter ended
December 31, 1997 from $312,959 for the quarter ended December 31, 1996. The
decrease is attributable to reduction in the use of stock options in
compensating employees and consultants of the Company. The reduction is also
reflective of a general change in the Company philosophy regarding the strike
price for options granted. Generally, stock options that are or will be granted
by the Company will not be "in-the-money," thus serving as an incentive to the
recipient of the options to add value to the Company.
In fiscal 1996, the Company was required, under generally accepted
accounting principles, to write down the discounted $5 Million 6% promissory
note (the "Note") from the sale of Industrial Management and Engineering, Inc.,
State Incorporated, Central Industrial Construction, Inc. and Larson Limestone
Company, Inc. (the "Construction Companies") to the ascertainable value of the
Company's common stock collateralizing the Note. This accounting treatment
resulted in a write-down of $2,699,575 in fiscal 1996. For the quarter ended
December 31, 1997, the Company was required to write-up the Note by $292,500
resulting from the change in the value of the Company's common stock
collateralizing the Note, compared to a write-up of $725,000 for the quarter
ended December 31, 1996. The Note is guaranteed by the Buyers of the
Construction Companies and there has been no event of default or past due
payment occur on the Note. The Company has no reason to believe that the
payments under the terms of the Note will not be made.
Total Other Income and Expenses. For the quarter ended December 31, 1997,
the Company had other income totaling $222,671 and other expenses of $1,112,508
for net other expenses of $889,837. For the quarter ended December 31, 1996, the
Company had other income totaling $147,347 and other expenses of $65,876 for net
other income of $81,471. Therefore, there was a net increase in other expenses
in the current quarter over the prior year's corresponding quarter of $971,308.
This difference is made up principally of interest expense of $1,112,508, which
was booked as a result of the transactions the Company entered into with
PacifiCorp and Gallagher as explained below.
During December 1997, the Company executed and amendment to the Convertible
Loan and Security Agreement with PacifiCorp Financial Services, Inc. ("PFS").
The agreement modifies an agreement reached on March 20, 1997 which provides
funding for completing construction of the Alabama project and acquiring coal
fines and for other purposes related to the project. The modification increased
the amount available from $5,000,000 to $7,000,000 with a provision that
borrowings up to the greater of actual borrowings or $6,000,000 are convertible
into common stock under the same terms as the original March 20, 1997 agreement
(at a price of $7.00 per share). Based upon the revised terms an expense of
$714,286 was incurred during the quarter for conversion rights issued at a price
below market.
In October 1997, the Company entered into an agreement with Gallagher,
whereby Gallagher agreed to finance a wash plant being constructed by the
Company to provide washed coal fines to the Utah Plant for the manufacture of
synthetic fuel. The financing consists of a note bearing interest at 6% per
annum with principal and interest due and payable two years from the time the
debt was incurred. As additional consideration to Gallagher for the financing,
the Company agreed to grant warrants to purchase Company common stock in an
amount equal to 10% of the dollar amount financed, with fifty percent of the
shares having a purchase price of $10 per share and fifty percent of the shares
having a purchase price of $20 per share. The warrants are immediately
exercisable and expire in two years. Based upon the issuance of non-detachable
warrants at a price below market, $398,222 in interest expense was recognized in
the current quarter.
Net Loss. For the quarter ended December 31, 1997, the Company had a net
increase of $437,093 in loss from operations. The increase in net loss is
principally attributable to: the increase in interest expense of $1,046,632 due
to the PacifiCorp and Gallagher transactions as explained above, and reduction
in the write-up on the note receivable from related parties of $432,500. These
reductions in income were partially offset by the increase in revenues of
$937,478 which increase was principally attributable to advance license fees
received from Gallagher and Massey totaling $1 million.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
For the quarter ended December 31, 1997, management believes the Company
continued to make significant progress in its movement from a development
company to an operating company. The increase in cash used by the Company in
operating activities from $777,944 for the quarter ended December 31, 1996 to
$969,266 for the quarter ended December 31, 1997 was largely due to expenditures
made by the Company in the commercialization of its Briquetting Technology,
including assistance to licensees of the Company's technology in the development
of projects that will utilize the Briquetting Technology, development of
projects that the Company intends to construct and sell to other entities, and
improvement of the binder and process technology related to production of
synthetic fuel. The Company was able to fund this growth principally through the
issuance of common stock, preferred stock, warrants, debt, convertible debt and
through advance license fees received.
Capital Resources
During the quarter ended December 31, 1997, the Company met its cash flow
requirements principally through issuance of debt and convertible debt, the sale
of equity securities and from advance license fees received. As of December 31,
1997, the Company had a working capital deficit of $6,636,599, compared to a
working capital deficit of $3,195,420 at December 31, 1996. The Company believes
that its current cash on hand, additional advanced license fees to be received,
and, if necessary, available financing will be sufficient to fund the operations
of the Company until cash flows from operations are sufficient to fund the
Company's operations. However, there is no assurance that the Company will be
able to obtain the necessary financing or receive sufficient cash flows from
operations during fiscal year 1998.
The Company anticipates that cash flow from: (i) licensing and royalty fees
from plants utilizing the Briquetting Technology; (ii) cash distributions from
US #1 and Alabama Synfuel #1, a Delaware limited partnership ("AS #1"); (iii)
the sale of chemical binder to plants utilizing the Briquetting Technology; (iv)
operating fees for the operation of facilities owned by third parties; (v)
payments on notes receivable and (vi) proceeds of equity and debt offerings will
be available and used to fund working capital and other operating needs through
fiscal 1998.
In the second and third quarters of the fiscal year ending September 30,
1998, the Company anticipates payments of advance license fees for each site
utilizing the Company's Briquetting Technology, except for the Savage Mojave
project. The timing for and amount of such fees varies and is tied to the
commencement of construction, the completion of construction, the receipt of an
IRS Private Letter Ruling ("PLR") for a particular project, or receipt of
project financing. Since these conditions should be met no later than June 30,
1998, all such advance license fees, if any, should be received by the end of
the third fiscal quarter of 1998.
The Company anticipates license fees from the production and sale of
synthetic fuel from the Utah Plant, Alabama Plant and Savage Mojave project, if
any, after the second quarter of fiscal year 1998. The balance of the
briquetting facilities licensing the Briquetting Technology are expected to be
placed into service late in the second quarter and in the third quarter of 1998.
Accordingly, the Company expects that there will be earned license fees paid
from production and sales from these plants after the third quarter of 1998,
with more significant fees paid after the end of fiscal year 1998.
Advance license fees and ongoing license fees attributable to the Utah
Plant and the Alabama Plant are payable to US #1 and AS #1, respectively. The
Company would receive its share of such license fees, net of partnership
expenses, in the form of cash distributions in proportion to the Company's
interests in the partnerships, 60% for US #1 and 80% for AS #1.
The Company has contracted with its licensees to provide binder materials
on a cost plus basis. The Company expects to make income from the sale of binder
materials to the Utah Plant and the Alabama Plant in the second quarter of
fiscal year 1998. As previously mentioned, the balance of the synthetic fuel
facilities that will be utilizing the Briquetting Technology are expected to be
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placed in service late in the second quarter and in the third quarter of the
fiscal year ending September 30, 1998. The Company expects to earn the gross
profit from the sale of binder to these other plants when they commence
production and in amounts that are proportionate to their production.
Under current contracts, the only facility for which the Company has
operational responsibility is the Utah Plant. The Company will earn a prescribed
amount per ton for production at the Utah Plant. The Company expects that there
will be other plants for which the Company will have operational responsibility
and for which it will earn an operation and maintenance fee. The Company does
not expect that operation and maintenance fees will constitute a material
portion of its income.
During fiscal year 1998, the Company anticipates receiving its
proportionate share (60% for US #1 and 80% for AS #1) of payments made by
Coaltech and BSF (as defined in the Company's Form 10-K) for the purchase of the
Utah and Alabama Plants, respectively.
The Company intends to seek project specific financing for the construction
of certain synthetic coal facilities. That financing may be in the form of
traditional debt financing, convertible debt, debt with an interest in the cash
flow attributable to the facility being financed, or financing by a potential
purchaser of the facility. The Company and AS #1 are financing the construction
of the Alabama Plant through a convertible debt arrangement with PacifiCorp (see
details of arrangement under "Existing Debt Arrangements" below). The Company
has made initial payments for one facility through construction financing
provided by DTE Energy Services, Inc. The Company has made arrangements to
construct a facility the coal preparation site of an eastern coal company
through financing obtained from Fun Enterprises Pty Ltd. (see Notes to Financial
Statements, footnote 11, "Subsequent Event"). The Company has entered into a
conditional letter agreement with Gallagher (as defined below), whereby
financing for up to four facilities, subject to its approval of the facility and
other conditions would be provided in exchange for an interest in the royalties
receivable from the facilities and other fees. The agreement is subject to
several conditions and there is no assurance that the financing will be
provided. Currently, the Company anticipates that it will finance one project in
the amount of approximately $6 million through Gallagher. Facilities being built
by licensees of the Company's technology will generally be financed by such
licensees. There is no assurance that the Company or its licensees will be able
to obtain the necessary financing to construct the synthetic fuel facilities.
Existing Debt Arrangements
In May 1995, the Company secured financing in the form of an $825,000
master equipment lease funded by a commercial bank to equip its initial
briquetting plant at Geneva Steel Company's facilities. The Company has
remaining obligations for lease payments totaling $425,000 through February 2000
at which time the Company has the option to purchase the equipment from the bank
for approximately $124,000.
In November 1996, the Company issued convertible subordinated debentures in
the principal amounts of $300,000, $200,000 and $500,000 to Mr. Douglas M.
Kinney, Mr. Gordon L. Deane and the Douglas M. Kinney 1999 Retained Annuity
Trust, respectively. The convertible subordinated debentures accrue interest at
prime plus two percent (2%) with interest and principal payable in full on June
30, 1998. All or a portion of the unpaid principal due on the debenture is
convertible into Company common stock at $11 per share. Through a separate
subscription agreement, the Company has granted piggy-back registration rights
to the investors for Company common stock issued upon conversion of the
convertible subordinated debentures. The Company has the right to prepay the
principal of the convertible subordinated debentures.
In December 1996, the Company entered into several construction agreements.
In each agreement, the Company agreed to penalty clauses in the aggregate amount
of $3,012,000 if they failed to build the facilities. The Company booked a
liability as of September 30, 1997 in the amount of $1,477,000 of which
$1,400,125 remains accrued as of December 31, 1997 for facilities that will not
or may not be built. See "ITEM 1. BUSINESS--Business of Company-Joint
Ventures-Savage and Other Construction Agreements-Construction Penalties" of the
Company's Form 10-K.
In December 1996, the Company entered into indemnity agreements with
Centerline for contingent liabilities aggregating $4,500,000. The Company
believes the maximum contingent liability as of the filing of this document
under the indemnity agreements is $2,250,000. See "ITEM 1. BUSINESS--Business of
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Company--Other Construction Agreements-- Indemnification to Centerline" of the
Company's Form 10-K.
In December 1996, the Company entered into a Debenture Agreement and
Security Agreement with Gallagher, whereby the Company borrowed $1,100,000,
pursuant to a Convertible Subordinated Debenture accruing interest at 6% per
annum and maturing three years from its date of issuance (the "Subordinated
Debenture") and $2,900,000 pursuant to Senior Debentures accruing interest at
prime plus two percent (2%) and maturing three years from the date of issuance
(the "Senior Debenture"). The Subordinated Debenture (including accrued
interest) was converted to 140,642 shares of the Company's common stock on May
5, 1997. The Company has granted piggy-back and demand registration rights to
Gallagher for the Company common stock issued on conversion of the Subordinated
Debenture. The Senior Debentures are collateralized by all real and personal
property purchased by the Company with the proceeds of the Senior Debenture. The
proceeds of the Subordinated Debenture and the Senior Debenture were used to
satisfy contractual obligations of the Company, for working capital and to
purchase equipment used to construct coal briquetting facilities to be managed
and/or sold by the Company or affiliates of the Company.
The Company is constructing a wash plant to provide washed coal fines to
the Utah Plant for the manufacture of synthetic fuel. The construction is being
financed through Gallagher. The total estimated cost for the wash plant is
approximately $5.5 Million. As of December 31, 1997, the Company had borrowed
$3,440,749. The financing is evidenced by a promissory note executed and
delivered by the Company to Gallagher and is secured by the wash plant. The note
currently bears interest at 6% per annum with principal and interest due and
payable two years from the time the debt was incurred. As additional
consideration to Gallagher for the financing, the Company agreed to grant
warrants to purchase Company common stock in an amount equal to 10% of the
dollar amount financed, with fifty percent of the shares having a purchase price
of $10 per share and fifty percent of the shares having a purchase price of $20
per share. The warrants are immediately exercisable and expire in two years.
Based upon the issuance of these non-detachable warrants at a price below
market, $398,222 in interest expense was recognized in the current quarter.
In October 1997, the Company purchased an 8,000 square-foot site located
in Price, Utah, on which the Company's prototype briquetting plant is located,
for $150,000. Included in the purchase was a 1,400 square-foot office building
which houses equipment. The property is subject to a 10-year $100,000 mortgage
held by the seller. The equity in the property was pledged as part of the
collateral for a $2.9 Million loan to the Company from Gallagher.
On March 20, 1997, the Company entered into a Convertible Loan and Security
Agreement (the "Loan Agreement") with PacifiCorp. On December 12, 1997, the
Company and PacifiCorp amended the Loan Agreement. Under the amended Loan
Agreement terms, the Company may borrow up to $7,000,000 as evidenced by a draw
down promissory note (the "Promissory Note") payable to PacifiCorp. As of
December 31, 1997 the Company had drawn $5,712,917 under the Loan Agreement.
Principal and accrued interest on the Promissory Note are due and payable on
August 31, 1998 (the "Due Date"), unless the Promissory Note is converted into
Company common stock. Interest due on the Promissory Note is calculated based on
a 360 day year and the actual number of days lapsed, and will be compounded
monthly. The interest rate is a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (i) the
highest rate allowed by law, or (ii) the sum of the rate of interest publicly
announced by Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York in New York City from
time to time plus two percent (2%) per annum. The proceeds of the loan (the
"Loan") may be used by the Company to: (i) complete construction of the Alabama
Plant; (ii) finance the purchase of coal fines for the Alabama Plant; (iii) fund
the net working capital needs of the Alabama Plant; (iv) finance the development
and construction of a wash plant for coal fines; and (v) other uses related to
the Alabama Plant approved by PacifiCorp in its sole discretion. The Company's
obligation to repay the Loan is secured by a security interest and lien on
certain property relating to the Alabama Plant. In addition, PacifiCorp has the
right to convert the greater of $6,000,000 or the actual amount borrowed by the
Company up to $7 Million at a conversion price of $7.00 per share, subject to
certain adjustments as provided in the Loan Agreement. On May 5, 1997,
PacifiCorp filed a Schedule 13D with the Securities and Exchange Commission
reporting its beneficial ownership as being in excess of 5% of the shares of
Company common stock should PacifiCorp convert the full amount of the Loan.
Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of March 20, 1997,
between the Company and PacifiCorp, PacifiCorp has been granted certain demand
and piggy-back registration rights with respect to shares of Company common
stock that could be acquired by PacifiCorp pursuant to the Loan Agreement.
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Based upon the revised terms, an expensed of $714,286 was recognized in the
current period for conversion rights issued at a price below market.
In the quarter ended December 31, 1997, the Company entered into an interim
construction financing agreement with DTE Energy Services, Inc. to finance up to
$2 Million for the Company's purchase of equipment and payment of other project
development costs relating to certain facilities. As of the filing of this
report, approximately $560,000 has been advanced under this financing agreement.
The Company's obligation to repay the amounts borrowed is secured by the
collateral purchased with the proceeds of the financing. Interest accrues on the
amount advanced at a per annum rate equal to the LIBOR rate plus 1% adjusted
monthly commencing December 1, 1997. The principal amount of the financing is
payable upon the closing of a take-out construction loan or December 31, 1998,
whichever occurs first. See "ITEM 1. BUSINESS--Business of Company--Other
Construction Agreements--Major Utility" of the Company's Form 10-K.
On January 29, 1998, the Company entered into a loan and security agreement
with Fun Enterprises, Pty Ltd. ("Fun"), a current holder of the Company's Class
B preferred stock, relating to the development and construction of a mobile,
skid-mounted synthetic fuel production facility at a coal preparation site of an
eastern coal company. The agreement allows the Company to borrow up to
$5,800,000, The interest rate will be 12% per annum until August 31, 1998, and
15% per annum thereafter until paid. Fun will also have the right to receive
certain royalties after the facility is sold. As of the date of this filing the
company has drawn $1,800,000 on the loan. The loan is due in full at the earlier
of the sale of the facility or December 31, 1999. The Company has entered into a
letter of intent with the eastern coal company to provide feedstock for the
plant and operating and synthetic fuel sales services. Construction of the
facility has commenced.
Forward Looking Statements
Statements regarding the Company's expectations as to the financing,
development and construction of facilities utilizing its Briquetting Technology,
the receipt of licensing fees, operating revenues and other information
presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not purely historical
by nature, including those statements regarding the Company's future business
plans, the construction and estimated completion of facilities, the estimated
capacity of facilities, the availability of coal fines, the marketability of the
synthetic fuel and other briquettes and the financial viability of the proposed
facilities, constitute forward looking statements within the meaning of the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Although the Company believes
that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of
its knowledge of its business and operations, there can be no assurance that
actual results will not differ materially from its expectations. In addition to
matters affecting the Company's industry or the coal industry or the economy
generally, factors which could cause actual results to differ from expectations
set forth in the above-identified forward looking statements include, but are
not limited to, the following:
(i) The commercial success of the Briquetting Technology.
(ii) Procurement of necessary equipment to place facilities into
operation.
(iii) Securing of necessary sites, including permits and raw materials,
for facilities to be constructed and operated.
(iv) Timely construction and completion of synthetic fuel facilities, by
the placed-in-service date June 30, 1998.
(v) Ability to obtain needed additional capital on terms acceptable
to the Company.
(vi) Changes in governmental regulation or failure to comply with
existing regulation which may result in operational shutdowns of its
facilities.
(vii) The availability of tax credits under Section 29 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Section 29").
(viii) The commercial feasibility of the Briquetting Technology upon the
expiration of Section 29 tax credits.
(ix) Ability to meet financial commitments under existing contractual
arrangements.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Not applicable.
PART II- OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On June 26, 1997, Kirby Cochran, former President of the Company
during the period from September 1995 through May 1996, filed a complaint
against the Company in the Fourth Judicial District for Utah County, State of
Utah (Civil No. 970400507). The complaint alleged that Mr. Cochran was entitled
to a declaratory judgment awarding him options to purchase 600,000 shares of the
Company's stock and $50,000 as repayment of a purported loan. The complaint
further alleged claims of conversion, fraud, and breach of contract related to
the stock options and loan. Finally, the complaint alleged a claim for punitive
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damages and other unspecified special or general damages. The Company filed a
petition to remove the action to the United States District Court for the
District of Utah (Civil No. 2:97CV0587G). On November 13, 1997, the parties
entered into a Settlement Agreement whereby Kirby Cochran agreed to release the
Company from all claims made by the lawsuit in exchange for payment on the
purported loan of $50,000.
In January 1996, a manager of the Company entered property owned by
NEICO, a subsidiary of Nevada Power Corporation, in connection with an offer by
the Company to purchase the property, and with certain other employees of the
Company, removed and contained over a two-day period some asbestos. The manager
allegedly failed to follow federal guidelines governing the handling and removal
of asbestos. This action was reported to the Division of Environmental Quality
for the State of Utah. An investigation followed in which the Company was fined
approximately $11,000 and was required by the State of Utah to properly dispose
of the asbestos using a qualified asbestos removal company. In the fall of 1997,
the Environmental Protection Agency began a review of the case and is currently
looking into the advisability of further claims or fines against the manager
and/or against the Company.
The Company entered into a letter of intent with Innovative
Technologies ("Innovative") in July of 1995 to apply the Company's Briquetting
Technology to certain metallic ores supplied by Innovative. The Company
conducted numerous tests of the ore through the fall of 1995, and concluded from
the results that the venture was not economically viable. Accordingly, final
agreement to process the ore was never reached. On March 4, 1997, Innovative
Holding Company, Inc., a California corporation, and ORO Limited, a California
limited partnership, filed a civil complaint against the Company alleging breach
of the letter of intent in the amount of $500,000 plus damages. The complaint
was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Orange (Case No.
776083). The Company intends to defend the suit.
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
The following sets forth all securities issued by the Company
within the past fiscal quarter without registering the securities under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended. No underwriters were involved in any stock
issuances nor were any commissions or similar fees paid in connection therewith.
However, the Company did pay finders fees in the form of cash, stock or warrants
in connection with various securities issuances.
The issuance of qualified options is required to be based on market
value. Accordingly, the exercise price is set based on the market price of the
Company's common stock, even though the options convert into restricted stock.
The Company believes that the following issuances of shares of
common stock, notes, debentures and other securities were exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, pursuant to
the exemption set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the certificate for each
security bears a restricted legend.
In September 1997, the Company entered into an agreement to
purchase all the outstanding shares in Covol Australia, Pty Ltd, an Australian
entity licensed to use the Briquetting Technology in revert applications in
Australia. Pursuant to the agreement, in October 1997, the Company issued 30,000
shares of Company common stock to six individuals as consideration for the
purchase. These shares were shown as "to be issued" at September 30, 1997.
As of September 18, 1997, the Company privately sold 104,294 units
to three accredited investors for an aggregate purchase price of approximately
$2,200,000. Of the 104,294 units, 100,008 were issued during September 1997, and
4,286 were issued during October 1997. Each unit consisted of (i) three shares
of the Company's Series B Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $.001 per share
(the "Series B Preferred Stock"), and (ii) a warrant to acquire one share of
Company common stock, at a price of $8.00 per share. The purchase price for each
unit was $21.00. The warrants are exercisable at any time on or before September
30, 1999. The Series B Preferred Stock sold as part of a unit was issued
pursuant to the terms of a Certificate of Designation filed with the Delaware
Secretary of State (the "Series B Certificate of Designation"). Under the Series
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B Certificate of Designation, the Series B Preferred Stock (i) accrues dividends
on a daily basis at a rate equal to the 2-year treasury bond rate plus one and
one-half percent (initially 7.29% per annum but subject to a one-time adjustment
on March 18, 1998) on the liquidation value of each share from the date of
issuance until paid or converted (with no compounding of dividends being
authorized) payable semi-annually in the discretion of the Company, (ii) is
redeemable by the Company at any time after 30 days' written notice at the
liquidation value plus accrued and unpaid dividends, (iii) has no voting rights
unless specifically authorized by the Delaware General Corporate Law, (iv) is
convertible by the Company at any time after September 30, 1998 at a conversion
price of $7.00 per share. The units were privately placed pursuant to
subscription agreements between the Company and the accredited investors. In
connection with the sale of the Series B Preferred Stock, the Company issued, as
a finders fee to two accredited investors, warrants to acquire an aggregate of
62,576 shares of the Company's common stock at a price of $8.00 per share at any
time prior to September 30, 1999. Of the total number of warrants and shares of
common stock issued in this private placement, 12,858 shares and 4,286 warrants
were issued during the current quarter.
As of September 30, 1997 and October 13, 1997, the Company accepted
subscriptions from 49 accredited investors for the purchase of 119,557 units
pursuant to a Confidential Private Placement Memorandum, dated August 28, 1997
(the "Memorandum"), at a price of $35.00 per unit with an aggregate purchase
price of approximately $4,200,000. Each unit consisted of five shares of common
stock of the Company together with a warrant to purchase one additional share of
common stock. The exercise price of the warrant is $8.00 per share and the
warrant must be exercised by April 30, 1998. Pursuant to the terms of the
Memorandum, the Company has granted to purchasers of the units piggyback
registration rights on the shares of common stock underlying the units and the
shares of common stock which have or may become issuable from the exercise of
the warrants. In connection with the sale of the units under the Memorandum, the
Company has agreed to issue to three accredited investors finder fees in the
form of warrants to acquire an aggregate of up to 199,262 shares of the
Company's common stock at a purchase price of $8.00 per share at any time prior
to October 31, 1999. As of December 31, 1997, 597,785 shares had been issued, of
which 547,785 shares were issued in the current quarter.
In October 1997, the Company granted options to acquire 2,500
shares to John P. Hill, Jr., a Director of the Company, as director
compensation. The exercise price is $11.50 per share.
In October 1997, the Company issued 2,500 shares in exercise of
options at $1.50 per share. The consideration was paid in cash. The options were
issued in fiscal 1995.
In October 1997, the Company entered into an agreement with
Gallagher, whereby Gallagher agreed to finance the wash plant being constructed
by the Company to provide washed coal fines to the Utah Plant for the
manufacture of synthetic fuel. The financing consists of a note bearing interest
at 6% per annum with principal and interest due and payable two years from the
time the debt was incurred. As additional consideration to Gallagher for the
financing, the Company agreed to grant warrants to purchase common stock in an
amount equal to 10% of the dollar amount financed, with fifty percent of the
shares having a purchase price of $10 per share and fifty percent of the shares
having a purchase price of $20 per share. The warrants are immediately
exercisable and expire in two years.
In October 1997, the Company entered into a financial agreement
with DTE Energy Services, Inc. relating to the purchase of equipment for up to
two synthetic fuel production facilities. The agreement allows the Company to
borrow up to $2,000,000 with interest at LIBOR plus 1.0% (LIBOR was 6.84% on
December 31, 1997). The Company has drawn $559,334 under the agreement as of
December 31, 1997. Amounts are due at the earlier of the closing of alternative
financing or December 31, 1998.
On November 25, 1997, the Company issued 1,500 shares of Company
common stock to an accredited investor in exercise of warrants at $8.00 per
share. The consideration was paid in cash. The warrants were originally issued
with units privately placed on September 30, 1997 and October 13, 1997.
On December 8, 1997, the Company issued 1,500 shares of Company
common stock to an accredited investor in exercise of warrants at $8.00 per
share. The consideration was paid in cash. The warrants were originally issued
with units privately placed on September 30, 1997 and October 13, 1997.
19
<PAGE>
During December 1997, the Company executed an amendment to the
Convertible Loan and Security Agreement with PacifiCorp Financial Services, Inc.
("PFS"). The agreement modifies an agreement reached on March 20, 1997 which
provides funding for completing construction of the Alabama project and
acquiring coal fines and for other purposes related to the project. The
modification increased the amount available from $5,000,000 to $7,000,000 with a
provision that borrowings up to the greater of actual borrowings or $6,000,000
are convertible into common stock under the same terms as the original March 20,
1997 agreement, at a price of $7.00 per share.
On January 29, 1998, the Company entered into a loan and security
agreement with Fun Enterprises, Pty Ltd. ("Fun"), a current holder of the
Company's Class B preferred stock, relating to the development and construction
of a mobile, skid-mounted synthetic fuel production facility at a coal
preparation site of an eastern coal company. The agreement allows the Company to
borrow up to $5,800,000. The interest rate will be 12% per annum until August
31, 1998, and 15% per annum thereafter until paid. Fun will also have the right
to receive certain royalties after the facility is sold. As of the date of this
filing the Company has drawn $1,800,000 on the loan. The loan is due in full as
the earlier of the sale of the facility or December 31, 1999. The Company has
entered into a letter of intent with the eastern coal company to provide
feedstock for the plant and operating and synthetic fuel sales services.
construction of the facility has commenced.
The Company used the proceeds of the above-listed issuances to
finance Company operations and to pay related finder's fees.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
Those exhibits previously filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission as required by Item 601 of
Regulation S-K, are incorporated herein by reference
in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-32.
Exhibit 27.1 Financial Data Schedule
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
A Report on Form 8-K was filed on October 28, 1997.
20
<PAGE>
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Date: March 18, 1999
COVOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
By: /s/ Brent M. Cook
--------------------
Brent M. Cook, Chief Executive Officer and
Principal Executive Officer
By: /s/ Steven G. Stewart
------------------------
Steven G. Stewart, Chief Financial Officer
21
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND
UNAUDITED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE QUARTER ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997,
AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 3-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1998
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1997
<CASH> 2,565,563
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 12,595
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 2,741,454
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 7,157,826
<PP&E> 21,173,908
<DEPRECIATION> 661,037
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 32,600,275
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 13,794,425
<BONDS> 0
0
316
<COMMON> 9,211
<OTHER-SE> 6,758,798
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 32,600,275
<SALES> 0
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 1,041,625
<CGS> 456,947
<TOTAL-COSTS> 1,268,132
<OTHER-EXPENSES> (222,671)
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 1,112,508
<INCOME-PRETAX> (1,116,395)
<INCOME-TAX> 0
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (1,116,395)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (1,116,395)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (0.13)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.13)
</TABLE>
