<PAGE>
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 28, 2000
Registration No. 333-
---------------------
---------------------
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM S-8
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
ASK JEEVES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 7375 94-3334199
-------- ---- ----------
(State of Incorporation) (Primary Standard Industrial) (I.R.S. Employer
Classification Code Number Identification No.)
5858 HORTON STREET, SUITE 350
EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA 94608
----------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices)
NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC. 1997 STOCK PLAN
----------------------------------------
(Full title of the plan)
ROBERT W. WRUBEL
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
ASK JEEVES, INC.
5858 HORTON STREET, SUITE 350
EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA 94608
(510) 985-7400
--------------
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including
area code, of agent for service)
COPIES TO:
ANDREI M. MANOLIU, ESQ.
MICHAEL WEINER
COOLEY GODWARD LLP
FIVE PALO ALTO SQUARE
3000 EL CAMINO REAL
PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA 94306-2155
(650) 843-5000
<PAGE>
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROPOSED MAXIMUM PROPOSED MAXIMUM
TITLE OF SECURITIES AMOUNT TO BE OFFERING PRICE PER AGGREGATE OFFERING AMOUNT OF
TO BE REGISTERED REGISTERED SHARE(1) PRICE(1) REGISTRATION FEE
---------- -------- -------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common Stock ($.001 par
value ) 497,353 $0.81-$103.00 $5,871,059.40 $1,550
------- ------------- ------------- ---------
------- ------------- ------------- ---------
</TABLE>
(1) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the amount of the
registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(c) and (h)(l). The price per share
and aggregate offering price are based upon the exercise prices of
497,353 outstanding options to purchase Common Stock pursuant to the Net
Effects Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Plan.
FEE CALCULATION TABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OFFERING PRICE AGGREGATE
TITLE OF SHARES NUMBER OF SHARES PER SHARE OFFERING PRICE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
311,320 $0.81 $ 252,169
SHARES 6,766 $1.22 8,255
ISSUABLE PURSUANT 1,849 $1.62 2,995
TO UNISSUED 42,961 $2.03 87,211
STOCK OPTIONS 5,055 $2.43 12,284
PURSUANT TO 1,911 $4.06 7,759
THE NET 21,392 $6.08 130,064
EFFECT SYSTEMS, 58,076 $7.30 423,955
1997 STOCK 48,023 $103.00 4,946,369
PLAN
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL 497,353 $5,871,059
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
The following documents filed by Ask Jeeves, Inc. (the "Company") with the
Securities and Exchange Commission are incorporated by reference into this
Registration Statement:
(a) the Company's prospectus on filed July 1, 1999 pursuant to Rule
424(b)(4) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act");
(b) The Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 1999;
(c) The Company's current report on Form 8-K filed November 18,
1999, as amended on January 20, 2000;
(c) All other reports filed pursuant to Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Exchange Act since the year ended December 31, 1998; and
(d) The description of the Company's Common Stock which is contained
in the registration statement on Form 8-A filed under the Exchange
Act on June 28, 1999, including any amendment or report filed for
the purpose of updating such description.
All reports and other documents subsequently filed by the Company pursuant to
Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act prior to the filing of a
post-effective amendment which indicates that all securities offered have been
sold or which deregisters all securities then remaining unsold, shall be deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein and to be a part of this registration
statement from the date of the filing of such reports and documents.
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Under Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law the Company has broad
powers to indemnify its directors and officers against liabilities they may
incur in such capacities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. The
Company's Bylaws provide that the Company will indemnify its directors and
executive officers and may indemnify other officers to the fullest extent
permitted by law. Under its Bylaws, indemnified parties are entitled to
indemnification for negligence, gross negligence and otherwise to the fullest
extent permitted by law. The Bylaws also require the Company to advance
litigation expenses in the case of stockholder derivative actions or other
actions, against an undertaking by the indemnified party to repay such advances
if it is ultimately determined that the indemnified party is not entitled to
indemnification.
In addition, the Company's Certificate of Incorporation provides that, pursuant
to Delaware law, its directors shall not be liable for monetary damages for
breach of the directors' fiduciary duty of care to the Company and its
stockholders. This provision in the Certificate of Incorporation does not
eliminate the duty of care, and in appropriate circumstances equitable remedies
such as injunctive or other forms of non-monetary relief will remain available
under Delaware law. In addition, each director will continue to be subject to
liability for breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the Company for acts
or omissions not in good faith or involving intentional misconduct, for knowing
violation of law, for actions leading to improper personal benefit to the
director, and for payment of dividends or approval of stock repurchases or
redemptions that are unlawful under Delaware law. The provision also does not
affect a director's responsibilities under any other law, such as the federal
securities laws or state or federal environmental laws.
The Company has entered into indemnity agreements with each of its directors and
executive officers. Such indemnity agreements contain provisions that are in
some respects broader than the specific indemnification provisions contained in
Delaware law.
The Company maintains a policy providing directors' and officers' liability
insurance, which insures directors and officers of the Company in certain
circumstances with a liability limit of $15,000,000 per claim and in the
aggregate, subject to varying retentions. This coverage is on a claims made
basis.
1
<PAGE>
EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT
5 Opinion of Cooley Godward LLP.
23.1 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors
23.2 Consent of Cooley Godward LLP is contained in Exhibit 5 to
this Registration Statement.
24 Power of Attorney is contained on the signature page II-1.
99.1 Net Effect Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Plan (as amended May 27,
1998)
99.2 Net Effect Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Option Agreement
UNDERTAKINGS
1. The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(a) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:
(i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of
the Securities Act;
(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising
after the effective date of the registration statement (or the
most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which,
individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental
change in the information set forth in the registration
statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or
decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar
value of securities offered would not exceed that which was
registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the
estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form
of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule
424(b) (Section 230.424(b) of this chapter) if, in the
aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more
than a 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set
forth in the "Calculation of Registration Fee" table in the
effective registration statement.
(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of
distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any
material change to such information in the registration statement;
Provided, however, that paragraphs (a)(i) and (a)(ii) do not apply if the
information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those
paragraphs is contained in periodic reports filed by the issuer pursuant to
section 13 or section 15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by
reference herein.
(b) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to
be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered
herein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering.
2. The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the
registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d)
of the Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee
benefit plan's annual report pursuant to section 15(d) of the Exchange
Act) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement
shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the
securities offered herein, and the offering of such securities at that
time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
2
<PAGE>
3. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against
public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore,
unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses
incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the
registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling
person in connection with the securities being registered, the
registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has
been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of
appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by
it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and
will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
3
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the
Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all
of the requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in the City of Emeryville, State of California, on January 28, 2000.
ASK JEEVES, INC.
BY: /s/ Christine M. Davis
----------------------
Christine M. Davis
Vice President and Corporate
Controller
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears
below constitutes and appoints Robert W. Wrubel, Christine M. Davis and
Amy Slater, and each or any one of them, his or her true and lawful
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in
any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to this Registration Statement, and to file the
same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith,
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said
attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to
do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be
done in connection therewith, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or
she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that
said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, or their or his or her
substitutes or substitute, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue
hereof.
II-1
<PAGE>
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement
has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates
indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Robert W. Wrubel President, Chief Executive January 28, 2000
---------------- -------------------------- -----------------
Robert W. Wrubel Officer and Director
--------------------
(Principal Executive Officer)
/S/ M. Bruce Nakao Chief Financial Officer (Principal January 28, 2000
-------------- ----------------------- -----------------
M. Bruce Nakao Financial Officer)
/S/ Christine M. Davis Vice President and January 28, 2000
------------------ Corporate Controller
Christine M. Davis (Principal Accounting Officer)
/S/ Roger A. Strauch Chairman of the Board January 28, 2000
---------------- --------------------- -----------------
Roger A. Strauch
/S/ A. George ("Skip") Battle Director January 28, 2000
------------------------- -------- -----------------
A. George ("Skip")Battle
/S/ Garrett Gruener Director January 28, 2000
--------------- -------- -----------------
Garrett Gruener
/S/ Daniel J. Nova Director January 28, 2000
-------------- -------- -----------------
Daniel J. Nova
/S/ Benjamin M. Rosen Director January 28, 2000
----------------- -------- -----------------
Benjamin M. Rosen
/S/ Geoffrey Y. Yang Director January 28, 2000
---------------- -------- -----------------
Geoffrey Y. Yang
</TABLE>
II-2
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT
5 Opinion of Cooley Godward LLP.
23.1 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors
23.2 Consent of Cooley Godward LLP is contained in Exhibit 5 to
this Registration Statement.
25 Power of Attorney is contained on the signature page II-1.
99.1 Net Effect Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Plan (as amended May 27,
1998)
99.2 Net Effect Systems, Inc. 1997 Stock Option Agreement
<PAGE>
January 28, 2000 Exhibit 5
ASK JEEVES, INC.
5858 HORTON STREET, SUITE 350
EMERYVILLE, CA 94608
Ladies and Gentlemen:
You have requested our opinion with respect to certain matters in connection
with the filing by Ask Jeeves, Inc. (the "Company") of a Registration
Statement on Form S-8 (the "Registration Statement") with the Securities and
Exchange Commission covering the offering of up to 497,354 shares of the
Company's Common Stock, $.001 par value, (the "Shares") pursuant to the
assumption of outstanding options under the 1997 Stock Plan of Net Effect
Systems, Inc. (the "Plan").
In connection with this opinion, we have examined the Registration Statement and
related Prospectus, your Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws, as amended,
and such other documents, records, certificates, memoranda and other instruments
as we deem necessary as a basis for this opinion. We have assumed the
genuineness and authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the
conformity to originals of all documents submitted to us as copies thereof, and
the due execution and delivery of all documents where due execution and delivery
are a prerequisite to the effectiveness thereof.
On the basis of the foregoing, and in reliance thereon, we are of the opinion
that the Shares, when sold and issued in accordance with the Plan, the
Registration Statement and related Prospectus, will be validly issued, fully
paid, and nonassessable (except as to shares issued pursuant to certain deferred
payment arrangements, which will be fully paid and nonassessable when such
deferred payments are made in full).
We consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration
Statement.
Very truly yours,
COOLEY GODWARD LLP
By: /s/ Andrei M. Manoliu
---------------------
Andrei M. Manoliu
1.
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8) pertaining to the 1997 Stock Plan of Net Effect Systems, Inc. of
our report dated November 19, 1999 (except for Note 7, as to which the date is
June 28, 1999) with respect to the financial statements of Ask Jeeves, Inc,
as of December 31, 1997 and 1998 and for the period from June 13, 1996
(inception) through December 31, 1996 and for each of the two years ended
December 31, 1997 and 1998 included in the Registration Statement (Form S-1),
as amended, and the related prospectus of Ask Jeeves, Inc, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
Walnut Creek, California
January 28, 2000
<PAGE>
NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.
1997 STOCK PLAN
(AS AMENDED APRIL 13, 1998 AND MAY 27, 1998)
1. PURPOSES OF THE PLAN. The purposes of this Stock Plan are to attract
and retain the best available personnel for positions of substantial
responsibility, to provide additional incentive to Employees, Directors and
Consultants and to promote the success of the Company's business. Options
granted under the Plan may be Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock
Options, as determined by the Administrator at the time of grant. Stock Purchase
Rights may also be granted under the Plan.
2. DEFINITIONS. As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) "ADMINISTRATOR" means the Board or any of its Committees
as shall be administering the Plan in accordance with Section 4 hereof.
(b) "APPLICABLE LAWS" means the requirements relating to the
administration of stock option plans under U.S. state corporate laws, U.S.
federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation
system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of
any other country or jurisdiction where Options or Stock Purchase Rights are
granted under the Plan.
(c) "BOARD" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
(d) "CODE" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended.
(e) "COMMITTEE" means a committee of Directors appointed by
the Board in accordance with Section 4 hereof.
(f) "COMMON STOCK" means the Common Stock of the Company.
(g) "COMPANY" means Net Effect Systems, Inc., a Delaware
corporation.
(h) "CONSULTANT" means any person who is engaged by the
Company or any Parent or Subsidiary to render consulting or advisory services to
such entity.
(i) "DIRECTOR" means a member of the Board of Directors of the
Company.
(j) "DISABILITY" means total and permanent disability as
defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.
(k) "EMPLOYEE" means any person, including Officers and
Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company. A
Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave
of absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers
<PAGE>
between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any
Subsidiary, or any successor. For purposes of Incentive Stock Options, no such
leave may exceed ninety days, unless reemployment upon expiration of such leave
is guaranteed by statute or contract. If reemployment upon expiration of a leave
of absence approved by the Company is not so guaranteed, on the 181st day of
such leave any Incentive Stock Option held by the Optionee shall cease to be
treated as an Incentive Stock Option and shall be treated for tax purposes as a
Nonstatutory Stock Option. Neither service as a Director nor payment of a
director's fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute "employment" by
the Company.
(l) "EXCHANGE ACT" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended.
(m) "FAIR MARKET VALUE" means, as of any date, the value of
Common Stock determined as follows:
(i) If the Common Stock is listed on any established
stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the
Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market,
its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the
closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for
the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL or such other source as the Administrator deems
reliable;
(ii) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a
recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, its Fair
Market Value shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the
Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of determination;
or
(iii) In the absence of an established market for the
Common Stock, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be determined in good faith by
the Administrator.
(n) "INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION" means an Option intended to
qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the
Code.
(o) "NONSTATUTORY STOCK OPTION" means an Option not intended
to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option.
(p) "OFFICER" means a person who is an officer of the Company
within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder.
(q) "OPTION" means a stock option granted pursuant to the
Plan.
(r) "OPTION AGREEMENT" means a written or electronic agreement
between the Company and an Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of an
individual Option grant. The Option Agreement is subject to the terms and
conditions of the Plan.
(s) "OPTION EXCHANGE PROGRAM" means a program whereby
outstanding Options are exchanged for Options with a lower exercise price.
-2-
<PAGE>
(t) "OPTIONED STOCK" means the Common Stock subject to an
Option or a Stock Purchase Right.
(u) "OPTIONEE" means the holder of an outstanding Option or
Stock Purchase Right granted under the Plan.
(v) "PARENT" means a "parent corporation," whether now or
hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.
(w) "PLAN" means this 1997 Stock Plan.
(x) "RESTRICTED STOCK" means shares of Common Stock acquired
pursuant to a grant of a Stock Purchase Right under Section 11 below.
(y) "SECTION 16(b) " means Section 16(b) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
(z) "SERVICE PROVIDER" means an Employee, Director or
Consultant.
(aa) "SHARE" means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in
accordance with Section 12 below.
(bb) "STOCK PURCHASE RIGHT" means a right to purchase Common
Stock pursuant to Section 11 below.
(cc)"SUBSIDIARY" means a "subsidiary corporation," whether now
or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.
3. STOCK SUBJECT TO THE PLAN. Subject to the provisions of Section 12
of the Plan, the maximum aggregate number of Shares which may be subject to
option and sold under the Plan is 4,803,000 Shares. The Shares may be authorized
but unissued, or reacquired Common Stock.
If an Option or Stock Purchase Right expires or becomes unexercisable
without having been exercised in full, or is surrendered pursuant to an Option
Exchange Program, the unpurchased Shares which were subject thereto shall become
available for future grant or sale under the Plan (unless the Plan has
terminated). However, Shares that have actually been issued under the Plan, upon
exercise of either an Option or Stock Purchase Right, shall not be returned to
the Plan and shall not become available for future distribution under the Plan,
except that if Shares of Restricted Stock are repurchased by the Company at
their original purchase price, such Shares shall become available for future
grant under the Plan.
4. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN.
(a) ADMINISTRATOR. The Plan shall be administered by the Board
or a Committee appointed by the Board, which Committee shall be constituted to
comply with Applicable Laws.
-3-
<PAGE>
(b) POWERS OF THE ADMINISTRATOR. Subject to the provisions of
the Plan and, in the case of a Committee, the specific duties delegated by the
Board to such Committee, and subject to the approval of any relevant
authorities, the Administrator shall have the authority in its discretion:
(i) to determine the Fair Market Value;
(ii) to select the Service Providers to whom Options
and Stock Purchase Rights may from time to time be granted hereunder;
(iii) to determine the number of Shares to be covered
by each such award granted hereunder;
(iv) to approve forms of agreement for use under the
Plan;
(v) to determine the terms and conditions, of any
Option or Stock Purchase Right granted hereunder. Such terms and conditions
include, but are not limited to, the exercise price, the time or times when
Options or Stock Purchase Rights may be exercised (which may be based on
performance criteria), any vesting acceleration or waiver of forfeiture
restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any Option or Stock
Purchase Right or the Common Stock relating thereto, based in each case on such
factors as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine;
(vi) to determine whether and under what
circumstances an Option may be settled in cash under subsection 9(e) instead of
Common Stock;
(vii) to reduce the exercise price of any Option to
the then current Fair Market Value if the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock
covered by such Option has declined since the date the Option was granted;
(viii) to initiate an Option Exchange Program;
(ix) to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and
regulations relating to the Plan, including rules and regulations relating to
sub-plans established for the purpose of qualifying for preferred tax treatment
under foreign tax laws;
(x) to allow Optionees to satisfy withholding tax
obligations by electing to have the Company withhold from the Shares to be
issued upon exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right that number of Shares
having a Fair Market Value equal to the amount required to be withheld. The Fair
Market Value of the Shares to be withheld shall be determined on the date that
the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined. All elections by Optionees
to have Shares withheld for this purpose shall be made in such form and under
such conditions as the Administrator may deem necessary or advisable; and
(xi) to construe and interpret the terms of the Plan
and awards granted pursuant to the Plan.
-4-
<PAGE>
(c) EFFECT OF ADMINISTRATOR'S DECISION. All decisions,
determinations and interpretations of the Administrator shall be final and
binding on all Optionees.
5. ELIGIBILITY.
(a) Nonstatutory Stock Options and Stock Purchase Rights may
be granted to Service Providers. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to
Employees.
(b) Each Option shall be designated in the Option Agreement as
either an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option. However,
notwithstanding such designation, to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market
Value of the Shares with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are
exercisable for the first time by the Optionee during any calendar year (under
all plans of the Company and any Parent or Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such
Options shall be treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options. For purposes of this
Section 5(b), Incentive Stock Options shall be taken into account in the order
in which they were granted. The Fair Market Value of the Shares shall be
determined as of the time the Option with respect to such Shares is granted.
(c) Neither the Plan nor any Option or Stock Purchase Right
shall confer upon any Optionee any right with respect to continuing the
Optionee's relationship as a Service Provider with the Company, nor shall it
interfere in any way with his or her right or the Company's right to terminate
such relationship at any time, with or without cause.
6. TERM OF PLAN. The Plan shall become effective upon its adoption by
the Board. It shall continue in effect for a term of ten (10) years unless
sooner terminated under Section 14 of the Plan.
7. TERM OF OPTION. The term of each Option shall be stated in the
Option Agreement; provided, however, that the term shall be no more than ten
(10) years from the date of grant thereof. In the case of an Incentive Stock
Option granted to an Optionee who, at the time the Option is granted, owns stock
representing more than ten percent (10%) of the voting power of all classes of
stock of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary, the term of the Option shall
be five (5) years from the date of grant or such shorter term as may be provided
in the Option Agreement.
8. OPTION EXERCISE PRICE AND CONSIDERATION.
(a) The per share exercise price for the Shares to be issued
upon exercise of an Option shall be such price as is determined by the
Administrator, but shall be subject to the following:
(i) In the case of an Incentive Stock Option
(A) granted to an Employee who, at the time
of grant of such Option, owns stock representing more than ten percent (10%) of
the voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent or
Subsidiary, the exercise price shall be no less than 110% of the Fair Market
Value per Share on the date of grant.
-5-
<PAGE>
(B) granted to any other Employee, the per
Share exercise price shall be no less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per
Share on the date of grant.
(ii) In the case of a Nonstatutory Stock Option
(A) granted to a Service Provider who, at
the time of grant of such Option, owns stock representing more than ten percent
(10%) of the voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent
or Subsidiary, the exercise price shall be no less than 110% of the Fair Market
Value per Share on the date of grant.
(B) granted to any other Service Provider,
the per Share exercise price shall be no less than 85% of the Fair Market Value
per Share on the date of grant.
(iii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, Options may be
granted with a per Share exercise price other than as required above pursuant to
a merger or other corporate transaction.
(b) The consideration to be paid for the Shares to be issued
upon exercise of an Option, including the method of payment, shall be determined
by the Administrator (and, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option, shall be
determined at the time of grant). Such consideration may consist of (1) cash,
(2) check, (3) promissory note, (4) other Shares which (x) in the case of Shares
acquired upon exercise of an Option, have been owned by the Optionee for more
than six months on the date of surrender, and (y) have a Fair Market Value on
the date of surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to
which such Option shall be exercised, (5) consideration received by the Company
under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company in connection with
the Plan, or (6) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment. In making
its determination as to the type of consideration to accept, the Administrator
shall consider if acceptance of such consideration may be reasonably expected to
benefit the Company.
9. EXERCISE OF OPTION.
(a) PROCEDURE FOR EXERCISE; RIGHTS AS A SHAREHOLDER. Any
Option granted hereunder shall be exercisable according to the terms hereof at
such times and under such conditions as determined by the Administrator and set
forth in the Option Agreement. Except in the case of Options granted to
Officers, Directors and Consultants, Options shall become exercisable at a rate
of no less than 20% per year over five (5) years from the date the Options are
granted. Unless the Administrator provides otherwise, vesting of Options granted
hereunder shall be tolled during any unpaid leave of absence. An Option may not
be exercised for a fraction of a Share.
An Option shall be deemed exercised when the Company
receives: (i) written or electronic notice of exercise (in accordance with the
Option Agreement) from the person entitled to exercise the Option, and (ii) full
payment for the Shares with respect to which the Option is exercised. Full
payment may consist of any consideration and method of payment authorized by the
Administrator and permitted by the Option Agreement and the Plan. Shares issued
upon exercise of an Option shall be issued in the name of the Optionee or, if
requested by the Optionee, in the name of the Optionee and his or her spouse.
Until the Shares are issued (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books
of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company), no right
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<PAGE>
to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a shareholder shall exist
with respect to the Shares, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option. The
Company shall issue (or cause to be issued) such Shares promptly after the
Option is exercised. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right
for which the record date is prior to the date the Shares are issued, except as
provided in Section 12 of the Plan.
Exercise of an Option in any manner shall result in a
decrease in the number of Shares thereafter available, both for purposes of the
Plan and for sale under the Option, by the number of Shares as to which the
Option is exercised.
(b) TERMINATION OF RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER. If an
Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider, such Optionee may exercise his or her
Option within such period of time as is specified in the Option Agreement (of at
least thirty (30) days) to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of
termination (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of the Option
as set forth in the Option Agreement). In the absence of a specified time in the
Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for thirty (30) days
following the Optionee's termination. If, on the date of termination, the
Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the
unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. If, after termination,
the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified by
the Administrator, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such
Option shall revert to the Plan.
(c) DISABILITY OF OPTIONEE. If an Optionee ceases to be a
Service Provider as a result of the Optionee's Disability, the Optionee may
exercise his or her Option within such period of time as is specified in the
Option Agreement (of at least six (6) months) to the extent the Option is vested
on the date of termination (but in no event later than the expiration of the
term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement). In the absence of a
specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for
twelve (12) months following the Optionee's termination. If, on the date of
termination, the Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the
Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan.
If, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within
the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by
such Option shall revert to the Plan.
(d) DEATH OF OPTIONEE. If an Optionee dies while a Service
Provider, the Option may be exercised within such period of time as is specified
in the Option Agreement (of at least six (6) months) to the extent that the
Option is vested on the date of death (but in no event later than the expiration
of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement) by the
Optionee's estate or by a person who acquires the right to exercise the Option
by bequest or inheritance. In the absence of a specified time in the Option
Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following
the Optionee's termination. If, at the time of death, the Optionee is not vested
as to the entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the
Option shall immediately revert to the Plan. If the Option is not so exercised
within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares
covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.
(e) BUYOUT PROVISIONS. The Administrator may at any time offer
to buy out for a payment in cash or Shares, an Option previously granted, based
on such terms and conditions as the Administrator shall establish and
communicate to the Optionee at the time that such offer is made.
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<PAGE>
10. NON-TRANSFERABILITY OF OPTIONS AND STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS. The
Options and Stock Purchase Rights may not be sold, pledged, assigned,
hypothecated, transferred, or disposed of in any manner other than by will or by
the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised, during the lifetime of
the Optionee, only by the Optionee.
11. STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS.
(a) RIGHTS TO PURCHASE. Stock Purchase Rights may be issued
either alone, in addition to, or in tandem with other awards granted under the
Plan and/or cash awards made outside of the Plan. After the Administrator
determines that it will offer Stock Purchase Rights under the Plan, it shall
advise the offeree in writing or electronically of the terms, conditions and
restrictions related to the offer, including the number of Shares that such
person shall be entitled to purchase, the price to be paid, and the time within
which such person must accept such offer. The terms of the offer shall comply in
all respects with applicable state law. The offer shall be accepted by execution
of a Restricted Stock purchase agreement in the form determined by the
Administrator.
(b) REPURCHASE OPTION. Unless the Administrator determines
otherwise, the Restricted Stock purchase agreement shall grant the Company a
repurchase option exercisable upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of
the purchaser's service with the Company for any reason (including death or
disability). The purchase price for Shares repurchased pursuant to the
Restricted Stock purchase agreement shall be the original price paid by the
purchaser and may be paid by cancellation of any indebtedness of the purchaser
to the Company. The repurchase option shall lapse at such rate as the
Administrator may determine. Except with respect to Shares purchased by
Officers, Directors and Consultants, the repurchase option shall in no case
lapse at a rate of less than 20% per year over five (5) years from the date of
purchase.
(c) OTHER PROVISIONS. The Restricted Stock purchase agreement
shall contain such other terms, provisions and conditions not inconsistent with
the Plan as may be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion.
(d) RIGHTS AS A SHAREHOLDER. Once the Stock Purchase Right is
exercised, the purchaser shall have rights equivalent to those of a shareholder
and shall be a shareholder when his or her purchase is entered upon the records
of the duly authorized transfer agent of the Company. No adjustment shall be
made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the
date the Stock Purchase Right is exercised, except as provided in Section 12 of
the Plan.
12. ADJUSTMENTS UPON CHANGES IN CAPITALIZATION, MERGER OR ASSET SALE.
(a) CHANGES IN CAPITALIZATION. Subject to any required action
by the shareholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered
by each outstanding Option or Stock Purchase Right, and the number of shares of
Common Stock which have been authorized for issuance under the Plan but as to
which no Options or Stock Purchase Rights have yet been granted or which have
been returned to the Plan upon cancellation or expiration of an Option or Stock
Purchase Right, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by each
such outstanding Option or Stock Purchase Right, shall be proportionately
adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common
Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock
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<PAGE>
dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other
increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected
without receipt of consideration by the Company. The conversion of any
convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been "effected
without receipt of consideration." Such adjustment shall be made by the Board,
whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.
Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of
stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class,
shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to,
the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to an Option or Stock
Purchase Right.
(b) DISSOLUTION OR LIQUIDATION. In the event of the proposed
dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Administrator shall notify each
Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed
transaction. The Administrator in its discretion may provide for an Optionee to
have the right to exercise his or her Option or Stock Purchase Right until
fifteen (15) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock
covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option or Stock Purchase Right
would not otherwise be exercisable. In addition, the Administrator may provide
that any Company repurchase option applicable to any Shares purchased upon
exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right shall lapse as to all such Shares,
provided the proposed dissolution or liquidation takes place at the time and in
the manner contemplated. To the extent it has not been previously exercised, an
Option or Stock Purchase Right will terminate immediately prior to the
consummation of such proposed action.
(c) MERGER OR ASSET SALE. In the event of a merger of the
Company with or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of
the assets of the Company, each outstanding Option and Stock Purchase Right
shall be assumed or an equivalent option or right substituted by the successor
corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation. In the event
that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option or
Stock Purchase Right, such Option or Stock Purchase Right shall become fully
exercisable immediately prior to the closing of the merger, and the Optionee
shall have the right to exercise the Option or Stock Purchase Right as to all of
the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be
vested or exercisable in the absence of such event. If an Option or Stock
Purchase Right becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or
substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Administrator shall
notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option or Stock
Purchase Right shall be fully exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from
the date of such notice, and the Option or Stock Purchase Right shall terminate
upon the expiration of such period. For the purposes of this paragraph, the
Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be considered assumed if, following the
merger or sale of assets, the option or right confers the right to purchase or
receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option or Stock
Purchase Right immediately prior to the merger or sale of assets, the
consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in
the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on
the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of
consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of
the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received
in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common stock of the successor
corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the
successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the
exercise of the Option or Stock Purchase Right, for each Share of Optioned Stock
subject to the Option or Stock Purchase Right, to be solely common stock of the
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<PAGE>
successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share
consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or sale of
assets.
13. TIME OF GRANTING OPTIONS AND STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS. The date of
grant of an Option or Stock Purchase Right shall, for all purposes, be the date
on which the Administrator makes the determination granting such Option or Stock
Purchase Right, or such other date as is determined by the Administrator. Notice
of the determination shall be given to each Employee to whom an Option or Stock
Purchase Right is so granted within a reasonable time after the date of such
grant.
14. AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION OF THE PLAN.
(a) AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION. The Board may at any time
amend, alter, suspend or terminate the Plan.
(b) SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. The Board shall obtain shareholder
approval of any Plan amendment to the extent necessary and desirable to comply
with Applicable Laws.
(c) EFFECT OF AMENDMENT OR TERMINATION. No amendment,
alteration, suspension or termination of the Plan shall impair the rights of any
Optionee, unless mutually agreed otherwise between the Optionee and the
Administrator, which agreement must be in writing and signed by the Optionee and
the Company. Termination of the Plan shall not affect the Administrator's
ability to exercise the powers granted to it hereunder with respect to Options
granted under the Plan prior to the date of such termination.
15. CONDITIONS UPON ISSUANCE OF SHARES.
(a) LEGAL COMPLIANCE. Shares shall not be issued pursuant to
the exercise of an Option unless the exercise of such Option and the issuance
and delivery of such Shares shall comply with Applicable Laws and shall be
further subject to the approval of counsel for the Company with respect to such
compliance.
(b) INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIONS. As a condition to the exercise
of an Option, the Administrator may require the person exercising such Option to
represent and warrant at the time of any such exercise that the Shares are being
purchased only for investment and without any present intention to sell or
distribute such Shares if, in the opinion of counsel for the Company, such a
representation is required.
16. INABILITY TO OBTAIN AUTHORITY. The inability of the Company to
obtain authority from any regulatory body having jurisdiction, which authority
is deemed by the Company's counsel to be necessary to the lawful issuance and
sale of any Shares hereunder, shall relieve the Company of any liability in
respect of the failure to issue or sell such Shares as to which such requisite
authority shall not have been obtained.
17. RESERVATION OF SHARES. The Company, during the term of this Plan,
shall at all times reserve and keep available such number of Shares as shall be
sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the Plan.
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<PAGE>
18. SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. The Plan shall be subject to approval by the
shareholders of the Company within twelve (12) months after the date the Plan is
adopted. Such shareholder approval shall be obtained in the degree and manner
required under Applicable Laws.
19. INFORMATION TO OPTIONEES AND PURCHASERS. The Company shall provide
to each Optionee and to each individual who acquires Shares pursuant to the
Plan, not less frequently than annually during the period such Optionee or
purchaser has one or more Options or Stock Purchase Rights outstanding, and, in
the case of an individual who acquires Shares pursuant to the Plan, during the
period such individual owns such Shares, copies of annual financial statements.
The Company shall not be required to provide such statements to key employees
whose duties in connection with the Company assure their access to equivalent
information.
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<PAGE>
NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.
1997 STOCK PLAN
STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall
have the same defined meanings in this Option Agreement.
I. NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT
< < NAME> >
< < ADDRESS> >
The undersigned Optionee has been granted an Option to purchase Common
Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and this
Option Agreement, as follows:
Date of Grant < < Date_of_Grant> >
Vesting Commencement Date < < Vesting_Commencement_Date> >
Exercise Price per Share $ < < Exercise_Price_per_Share> >
Total Number of Shares Granted < < Total_Number_of_Shares_Granted> >
Total Exercise Price $ < < Total_Exercise_Price> >
Type of Option: X Incentive Stock Option
---
Nonstatutory Stock Option
---
Term/Expiration Date: < < TermExpiration_Date> >
VESTING SCHEDULE:
This Option shall be exercisable, in whole or in part, according to the
following vesting schedule:
25% of the Shares subject to the Option shall vest twelve months after
the Vesting Commencement Date, and 1/48 of the Shares subject to the Option
shall vest each month thereafter, subject to Optionee's continuing to be a
Service Provider on such dates. In the event of a Change of Control, as defined
on ATTACHMENT A hereto, the vesting of the Shares will accelerate in accordance
with the terms stated therein.
<PAGE>
TERMINATION PERIOD:
This Option shall be exercisable for three months after Optionee ceases
to be a Service Provider. Upon Optionee's death or Disability, this Option may
be exercised for one year after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider. In no
event may Optionee exercise this Option after the Term/Expiration Date as
provided above.
II. AGREEMENT
1 GRANT OF OPTION. The Plan Administrator of the Company hereby
grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant (the "Optionee"), an option
(the "Option") to purchase the number of Shares set forth in the Notice of
Grant, at the exercise price per Share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the
"Exercise Price"), and subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, which is
incorporated herein by reference. Subject to Section 14(c) of the Plan, in the
event of a conflict between the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option
Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall prevail.
If designated in the Notice of Grant as an Incentive Stock
Option ("ISO"), this Option is intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option
as defined in Section 422 of the Code. Nevertheless, to the extent that it
exceeds the $100,000 rule of Code Section 422(d), this Option shall be treated
as a Nonstatutory Stock Option ("NSO").
2 EXERCISE OF OPTION.
(a) RIGHT TO EXERCISE. This Option shall be exercisable
during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of
Grant and with the applicable provisions of the Plan and this Option Agreement.
(b) METHOD OF EXERCISE. This Option shall be exercisable
by delivery of an exercise notice in the form attached as EXHIBIT A (the
"Exercise Notice") which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the
number of Shares with respect to which the Option is being exercised, and such
other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company. The
Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price
as to all Exercised Shares. This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon
receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by the
aggregate Exercise Price.
No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of an
Option unless such issuance and such exercise complies with Applicable laws.
Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Shares shall be considered
transferred to the Optionee on the date on which the Option is exercised with
respect to such Shares.
3 OPTIONEE'S REPRESENTATIONS. In the event the Shares have not
been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, at the time this
Option is exercised, the Optionee shall, if required by the Company,
concurrently with the exercise of all or any portion of this Option, deliver to
the Company his or her Investment Representation Statement in the form attached
hereto as
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<PAGE>
EXHIBIT B [and shall read the applicable rules of the Commissioner of
Corporations attached to such Investment Representation Statement].
4 LOCK-UP PERIOD. Optionee hereby agrees that, if so requested
by the Company or any representative of the underwriters (the "Managing
Underwriter") in connection with any registration of the offering of any
securities of the Company under the Securities Act, Optionee shall not sell or
otherwise transfer any Shares or other securities of the Company during the
180-day period (or such other period as may be requested in writing by the
Managing Underwriter and agreed to in writing by the Company) (the "Market
Standoff Period") following the effective date of a registration statement of
the Company filed under the Securities Act. Such restriction shall apply only to
the first registration statement of the Company to become effective under the
Securities Act that includes securities to be sold on behalf of the Company to
the public in an underwritten public offering under the Securities Act. The
Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to securities subject
to the foregoing restrictions until the end of such Market Standoff Period.
5 METHOD OF PAYMENT. Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price
shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of
the Optionee:
(a) cash or check;
(b) consideration received by the Company under a formal
cashless exercise program adopted by the Company in connection with the Plan; or
(c) surrender of other Shares which, (i) in the case of
Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for
more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (ii) have a Fair Market
Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate Exercise Price of the
Exercised Shares.
6 RESTRICTIONS ON EXERCISE. This Option may not be exercised
until such time as the Plan has been approved by the shareholders of the
Company, or if the issuance of such Shares upon such exercise or the method of
payment of consideration for such shares would constitute a violation of any
Applicable Law.
7 NON-TRANSFERABILITY OF OPTION. This Option may not be
transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or
distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by
Optionee. The terms of the Plan and this Option Agreement shall be binding upon
the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.
8 TERM OF OPTION. This Option may be exercised only within the
term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only
in accordance with the Plan and the terms of this Option.
9 TAX CONSEQUENCES. Set forth below is a brief summary as of the
date of this Option of some of the federal tax consequences of exercise of this
Option and disposition of the Shares.
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<PAGE>
THIS SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE
SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE EXERCISING
THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.
(a) EXERCISE OF ISO. If this Option qualifies as an ISO,
there will be no regular federal income tax liability upon the exercise of the
Option, although the excess, if any, of the Fair Market Value of the Shares on
the date of exercise over the Exercise Price will be treated as an adjustment to
the alternative minimum tax for federal tax purposes and may subject the
Optionee to the alternative minimum tax in the year of exercise.
(b) EXERCISE OF NONSTATUTORY STOCK OPTION. There may be a
regular federal income tax liability upon the exercise of a Nonstatutory Stock
Option. The Optionee will be treated as having received compensation income
(taxable at ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if any, of the Fair
Market Value of the Shares on the date of exercise over the Exercise Price. If
Optionee is an Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be required to
withhold from Optionee's compensation or collect from Optionee and pay to the
applicable taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a percentage of this
compensation income at the time of exercise, and may refuse to honor the
exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not
delivered at the time of exercise.
(c) DISPOSITION OF SHARES. In the case of an NSO, if
Shares are held for at least one year, any gain realized on disposition of the
Shares will be treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax
purposes. In the case of an ISO, if Shares transferred pursuant to the Option
are held for at least one year after exercise and of at least two years after
the Date of Grant, any gain realized on disposition of the Shares will also be
treated as long-term capital gain for federal income tax purposes. If Shares
purchased under an ISO are disposed of within one year after exercise or two
years after the Date of Grant, any gain realized on such disposition will be
treated as compensation income (taxable at ordinary income rates) to the extent
of the difference between the Exercise Price and the lesser of (1) the Fair
Market Value of the Shares on the date of exercise, or (2) the sale price of the
Shares. Any additional gain will be taxed as capital gain, short-term or
long-term depending on the period that the ISO Shares were held.
(d) NOTICE OF DISQUALIFYING DISPOSITION OF ISO SHARES. If
the Option granted to Optionee herein is an ISO, and if Optionee sells or
otherwise disposes of any of the Shares acquired pursuant to the ISO on or
before the later of (1) the date two years after the Date of Grant, or (2) the
date one year after the date of exercise, the Optionee shall immediately notify
the Company in writing of such disposition. Optionee agrees that Optionee may be
subject to income tax withholding by the Company on the compensation income
recognized by the Optionee.
10 ENTIRE AGREEMENT; Governing Law. The Plan is incorporated
herein by reference. The Plan and this Option Agreement constitute the entire
agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede
in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and
Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified
adversely to the Optionee's interest except by means of a writing signed by the
Company and Optionee. This agreement is governed by the internal substantive
laws but not the choice of law rules of California.
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<PAGE>
11 NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE. OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND
AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS
EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (NOT
THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED THIS OPTION OR ACQUIRING SHARES
HEREUNDER). OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO
NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT AS A
SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL
NOT INTERFERE IN ANY WAY WITH OPTIONEE'S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY'S RIGHT TO
TERMINATE OPTIONEE'S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR
WITHOUT CAUSE.
Optionee acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Plan and represents that
he or she is familiar with the terms and provisions thereof, and hereby accepts
this Option subject to all of the terms and provisions thereof. Optionee has
reviewed the Plan and this Option in their entirety, has had an opportunity to
obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Option and fully
understands all provisions of the Option. Optionee hereby agrees to accept as
binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the
Administrator upon any questions arising under the Plan or this Option. Optionee
further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address
indicated below.
OPTIONEE: NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.:
- -------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Signature By
< < NAME> >
- -------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Name Title
RESIDENCE ADDRESS:
- ------------------
< < Address> >
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<PAGE>
EXHIBIT A
1997 STOCK PLAN
EXERCISE NOTICE
NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.
4146 Lankershim Blvd., Suite 302
North Hollywood, CA 91602
Attention: Secretary
1. EXERCISE OF OPTION. Effective as of today, ___________, 19__,
the undersigned ("Optionee") hereby elects to exercise Optionee's option to
purchase _________ shares of the Common Stock (the "Shares") of NET EFFECT
SYSTEMS, INC. (the "Company") under and pursuant to the 1997 Stock Plan (the
"Plan") and the Stock Option Agreement dated ________, 19 (the "Option
Agreement").
2. DELIVERY OF PAYMENT. Purchaser herewith delivers to the
Company the full purchase price of the Shares, as set forth in the Option
Agreement.
3. REPRESENTATIONS OF OPTIONEE. Optionee acknowledges that
Optionee has received, read and understood the Plan and the Option Agreement and
agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.
4. RIGHTS AS SHAREHOLDER. Until the issuance of the Shares (as
evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly
authorized transfer agent of the Company), no right to vote or receive dividends
or any other rights as a shareholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned
Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option. The Shares shall be issued to
the Optionee as soon as practicable after the Option is exercised. No adjustment
shall be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior
to the date of issuance except as provided in Section 12 of the Plan.
5. COMPANY'S RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL. Before any Shares held by
Optionee or any transferee (either being sometimes referred to herein as the
"Holder") may be sold or otherwise transferred (including transfer by gift or
operation of law), the Company or its assignee(s) shall have a right of first
refusal to purchase the Shares on the terms and conditions set forth in this
Section (the "Right of First Refusal").
(a) NOTICE OF PROPOSED TRANSFER. The Holder of the Shares
shall deliver to the Company a written notice (the "Notice") stating: (i) the
Holder's bona fide intention to sell or otherwise transfer such Shares; (ii) the
name of each proposed purchaser or other transferee ("Proposed Transferee");
(iii) the number of Shares to be transferred to each Proposed Transferee; and
(iv) the bona fide cash price or other consideration for which the Holder
proposes to transfer the Shares (the "Offered Price"), and the Holder shall
offer the Shares at the Offered Price to the Company or its assignee(s).
<PAGE>
(b) EXERCISE OF RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL. At any time
within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Notice, the Company and/or its
assignee(s) may, by giving written notice to the Holder, elect to purchase all,
but not less than all, of the Shares proposed to be transferred to any one or
more of the Proposed Transferees, at the purchase price determined in accordance
with subsection (c) below.
(c) PURCHASE PRICE. The purchase price ("Purchase Price")
for the Shares purchased by the Company or its assignee(s) under this Section
shall be the Offered Price. If the Offered Price includes consideration other
than cash, the cash equivalent value of the non-cash consideration shall be
determined by the Board of Directors of the Company in good faith.
(d) PAYMENT. Payment of the Purchase Price shall be made,
at the option of the Company or its assignee(s), in cash (by check), by
cancellation of all or a portion of any outstanding indebtedness of the Holder
to the Company (or, in the case of repurchase by an assignee, to the assignee),
or by any combination thereof within 30 days after receipt of the Notice or in
the manner and at the times set forth in the Notice.
(e) HOLDER'S RIGHT TO TRANSFER. If all of the Shares
proposed in the Notice to be transferred to a given Proposed Transferee are not
purchased by the Company and/or its assignee(s) as provided in this Section,
then the Holder may sell or otherwise transfer such Shares to that Proposed
Transferee at the Offered Price or at a higher price, provided that such sale or
other transfer is consummated within 120 days after the date of the Notice, that
any such sale or other transfer is effected in accordance with any applicable
securities laws and that the Proposed Transferee agrees in writing that the
provisions of this Section shall continue to apply to the Shares in the hands of
such Proposed Transferee. If the Shares described in the Notice are not
transferred to the Proposed Transferee within such period, a new Notice shall be
given to the Company, and the Company and/or its assignees shall again be
offered the Right of First Refusal before any Shares held by the Holder may be
sold or otherwise transferred.
(f) EXCEPTION FOR CERTAIN FAMILY TRANSFERS. Anything to
the contrary contained in this Section notwithstanding, the transfer of any or
all of the Shares during the Optionee's lifetime or on the Optionee's death by
will or intestacy to the Optionee's immediate family or a trust for the benefit
of the Optionee's immediate family shall be exempt from the provisions of this
Section. "Immediate Family" as used herein shall mean spouse, lineal descendant
or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister. In such case, the transferee
or other recipient shall receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to
the provisions of this Section, and there shall be no further transfer of such
Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section.
(g) TERMINATION OF RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL. The Right of
First Refusal shall terminate as to any Shares upon the first sale of Common
Stock of the Company to the general public pursuant to a registration statement
filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
6. TAX CONSULTATION. Optionee understands that Optionee may
suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Optionee's purchase or
disposition of the Shares. Optionee represents that Optionee has consulted with
any tax consultants Optionee deems advisable in connection with
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<PAGE>
the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Optionee is not relying on
the Company for any tax advice.
7. RESTRICTIVE LEGENDS AND STOP-TRANSFER ORDERS.
(a) LEGENDS. Optionee understands and agrees that the
Company shall cause the legends set forth below or legends substantially
equivalent thereto, to be placed upon any certificate(s) evidencing ownership of
the Shares together with any other legends that may be required by the Company
or by state or federal securities laws:
THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED
UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE "ACT") AND MAY NOT BE
OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED OR
HYPOTHECATED UNLESS AND UNTIL REGISTERED UNDER THE ACT OR, IN
THE OPINION OF COMPANY COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER OF
THESE SECURITIES, SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR
HYPOTHECATION IS IN COMPLIANCE THEREWITH.
THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO
CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL
HELD BY THE ISSUER OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S) AS SET FORTH IN THE
EXERCISE NOTICE BETWEEN THE ISSUER AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF
THESE SHARES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE PRINCIPAL
OFFICE OF THE ISSUER. SUCH TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF
FIRST REFUSAL ARE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.
IT IS UNLAWFUL TO CONSUMMATE A SALE OR TRANSFER OF THIS
SECURITY, OR ANY INTEREST THEREIN, OR TO RECEIVE ANY
CONSIDERATION THEREFOR, WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF
THE COMMISSIONER OF CORPORATIONS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA,
EXCEPT AS PERMITTED IN THE COMMISSIONER'S RULES.
Optionee understands that transfer of the Shares may be
restricted by Section 260.141.11 of the Rules of the California Corporations
Commissioner, a copy of which is attached to EXHIBIT B, the Investment
Representation Statement.
(b) STOP-TRANSFER NOTICES. Optionee agrees that, in order
to ensure compliance with the restrictions referred to herein, the Company may
issue appropriate "stop transfer" instructions to its transfer agent, if any,
and that, if the Company transfers its own securities, it may make appropriate
notations to the same effect in its own records.
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<PAGE>
(c) REFUSAL TO TRANSFER. The Company shall not be
required (i) to transfer on its books any Shares that have been sold or
otherwise transferred in violation of any of the provisions of this Agreement or
(ii) to treat as owner of such Shares or to accord the right to vote or pay
dividends to any purchaser or other transferee to whom such Shares shall have
been so transferred.
8. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. The Company may assign any of its
rights under this Agreement to single or multiple assignees, and this Agreement
shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Company. Subject
to the restrictions on transfer herein set forth, this Agreement shall be
binding upon Optionee and his or her heirs, executors, administrators,
successors and assigns.
9. INTERPRETATION. Any dispute regarding the interpretation of
this Agreement shall be submitted by Optionee or by the Company forthwith to the
Administrator which shall review such dispute at its next regular meeting. The
resolution of such a dispute by the Administrator shall be final and binding on
all parties.
10. GOVERNING LAW; SEVERABILITY. This Agreement is governed by the
internal substantive laws but not the choice of law rules, of California.
11. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. The Plan and Option Agreement are
incorporated herein by reference. This Agreement, the Plan, the Option Agreement
and the Investment Representation Statement constitute the entire agreement of
the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their
entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with
respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the
Optionee's interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and
Optionee.
Submitted by: Accepted by:
OPTIONEE: NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.
- ---------------------------------- -------------------------------------
Signature By
< < NAME> >
- ---------------------------------- -------------------------------------
Name Its
Address: ADDRESS:
< < Address> > 4146 Lankershim Blvd.,
Suite 302
North Hollywood, CA 91602
-------------------------------------
Date Received
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<PAGE>
EXHIBIT B
INVESTMENT REPRESENTATION STATEMENT
OPTIONEE: < < NAME> >
COMPANY: NET EFFECT SYSTEMS, INC.
SECURITY: COMMON STOCK
AMOUNT:
DATE:
In connection with the purchase of the above-listed Securities, the undersigned
Optionee represents to the Company the following:
(a) Optionee is aware of the Company's business affairs
and financial condition and has acquired sufficient information about the
Company to reach an informed and knowledgeable decision to acquire the
Securities. Optionee is acquiring these Securities for investment for Optionee's
own account only and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any
"distribution" thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended (the "Securities Act").
(b) Optionee acknowledges and understands that the
Securities constitute "restricted securities" under the Securities Act and have
not been registered under the Securities Act in reliance upon a specific
exemption therefrom, which exemption depends upon, among other things, the bona
fide nature of Optionee's investment intent as expressed herein. In this
connection, Optionee understands that, in the view of the Securities and
Exchange Commission, the statutory basis for such exemption may be unavailable
if Optionee's representation was predicated solely upon a present intention to
hold these Securities for the minimum capital gains period specified under tax
statutes, for a deferred sale, for or until an increase or decrease in the
market price of the Securities, or for a period of one year or any other fixed
period in the future. Optionee further understands that the Securities must be
held indefinitely unless they are subsequently registered under the Securities
Act or an exemption from such registration is available. Optionee further
acknowledges and understands that the Company is under no obligation to register
the Securities. Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing the
Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of the
Securities unless they are registered or such registration is not required in
the opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company, a legend prohibiting their
transfer without the consent of the Commissioner of Corporations of the State of
California and any other legend required under applicable state securities laws.
(c) Optionee is familiar with the provisions of Rule 701
and Rule 144, each promulgated under the Securities Act, which, in substance,
permit limited public resale of "restricted securities" acquired, directly or
indirectly from the issuer thereof, in a non-public offering subject to the
satisfaction of certain conditions. Rule 701 provides that if the issuer
qualifies under Rule 701 at
<PAGE>
the time of the grant of the Option to the Optionee, the exercise will be exempt
from registration under the Securities Act. In the event the Company becomes
subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, ninety (90) days thereafter (or such longer period as any
market stand-off agreement may require) the Securities exempt under Rule 701 may
be resold, subject to the satisfaction of certain of the conditions specified by
Rule 144, including: (1) the resale being made through a broker in an
unsolicited "broker's transaction" or in transactions directly with a market
maker (as said term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); and,
in the case of an affiliate, (2) the availability of certain public information
about the Company, (3) the amount of Securities being sold during any three
month period not exceeding the limitations specified in Rule 144(e), and (4) the
timely filing of a Form 144, if applicable.
In the event that the Company does not qualify under Rule 701 at the
time of grant of the Option, then the Securities may be resold in certain
limited circumstances subject to the provisions of Rule 144, which requires the
resale to occur not less than one year after the later of the date the
Securities were sold by the Company or the date the Securities were sold by an
affiliate of the Company, within the meaning of Rule 144; and, in the case of
acquisition of the Securities by an affiliate, or by a non-affiliate who
subsequently holds the Securities less than two years, the satisfaction of the
conditions set forth in sections (1), (2), (3) and (4) of the paragraph
immediately above.
(d) Optionee further understands that in the event all of
the applicable requirements of Rule 701 or 144 are not satisfied, registration
under the Securities Act, compliance with Regulation A, or some other
registration exemption will be required; and that, notwithstanding the fact that
Rules 144 and 701 are not exclusive, the Staff of the Securities and Exchange
Commission has expressed its opinion that persons proposing to sell private
placement securities other than in a registered offering and otherwise than
pursuant to Rules 144 or 701 will have a substantial burden of proof in
establishing that an exemption from registration is available for such offers or
sales, and that such persons and their respective brokers who participate in
such transactions do so at their own risk. Optionee understands that no
assurances can be given that any such other registration exemption will be
available in such event.
(e) Optionee understands that the certificate evidencing
the Securities will be imprinted with a legend which prohibits the transfer of
the Securities without the consent of the Commissioner of Corporations of
California. Optionee has read the applicable Commissioner's Rules with respect
to such restriction, a copy of which is attached.
Signature of Optionee:
------------------------------------
Date: , 19
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<PAGE>
ATTACHMENT 1
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
Title 10. Investment - Chapter 3. Commissioner of Corporations
260.141.11: RESTRICTION ON TRANSFER. (a) The issuer of any security
upon which a restriction on transfer has been imposed pursuant to Sections
260.102.6, 260.141.10 or 260.534 shall cause a copy of this section to be
delivered to each issuee or transferee of such security at the time the
certificate evidencing the security is delivered to the issuee or transferee.
(b) It is unlawful for the holder of any such security to
consummate a sale or transfer of such security, or any interest therein, without
the prior written consent of the Commissioner (until this condition is removed
pursuant to Section 260.141.12 of these rules), except:
(1) to the issuer;
(2) pursuant to the order or process of any court;
(3) to any person described in Subdivision (i) of Section
25102 of the Code or Section 260.105.14 of these rules;
(4) to the transferor's ancestors, descendants or spouse,
or any custodian or trustee for the account of the transferor or the
transferor's ancestors, descendants, or spouse; or to a transferee by a
trustee or custodian for the account of the transferee or the
transferee's ancestors, descendants or spouse;
(5) to holders of securities of the same class of the
same issuer;
(6) by way of gift or donation inter vivos or on death;
(7) by or through a broker-dealer licensed under the Code
(either acting as such or as a finder) to a resident of a foreign
state, territory or country who is neither domiciled in this state to
the knowledge of the broker-dealer, nor actually present in this state
if the sale of such securities is not in violation of any securities
law of the foreign state, territory or country concerned;
(8) to a broker-dealer licensed under the Code in a
principal transaction, or as an underwriter or member of an
underwriting syndicate or selling group;
(9) if the interest sold or transferred is a pledge or
other lien given by the purchaser to the seller upon a sale of the
security for which the Commissioner's written consent is obtained or
under this rule not required;
(10) by way of a sale qualified under Sections 25111,
25112, 25113 or 25121 of the Code, of the securities to be transferred,
provided that no order under Section 25140 or subdivision (a) of
Section 25143 is in effect with respect to such qualification;
(11) by a corporation to a wholly owned subsidiary of such
corporation, or by a wholly owned subsidiary of a corporation to such
corporation;
(12) by way of an exchange qualified under Section 25111,
25112 or 25113 of the Code, provided that no order under Section 25140
or subdivision (a) of Section 25143 is in effect with respect to such
qualification;
(13) between residents of foreign states, territories or
countries who are neither domiciled nor actually present in this state;
(14) to the State Controller pursuant to the Unclaimed
Property Law or to the administrator of the unclaimed property law of
another state; or
(15) by the State Controller pursuant to the Unclaimed
Property Law or by the administrator of the unclaimed property law of
another state if, in either such case, such person (i) discloses to
potential purchasers at the sale that transfer of the securities is
restricted under this rule, (ii) delivers to each purchaser a copy of
this rule, and (iii) advises the Commissioner of the name of each
purchaser;
(16) by a trustee to a successor trustee when such
transfer does not involve a change in the beneficial ownership of the
securities;
(17) by way of an offer and sale of outstanding securities
in an issuer transaction that is subject to the qualification
requirement of Section 25110 of the Code but exempt from that
qualification requirement by subdivision (f) of Section 25102; provided
that any such transfer is on the condition that any certificate
evidencing the security issued to such transferee shall contain the
legend required by this section.
(c) The certificates representing all such securities subject to
such a restriction on transfer, whether upon initial issuance or upon any
transfer thereof, shall bear on their face a legend, prominently stamped or
printed thereon in capital letters of not less than 10-point size, reading as
follows:
"IT IS UNLAWFUL TO CONSUMMATE A SALE OR TRANSFER OF THIS SECURITY, OR
ANY INTEREST THEREIN, OR TO RECEIVE ANY CONSIDERATION THEREFOR, WITHOUT
THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF CORPORATIONS OF THE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, EXCEPT AS PERMITTED IN THE COMMISSIONER'S RULES."
