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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
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FORM 10-K/A
AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED COMMISSION FILE NUMBER
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 0-19674
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SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
DELAWARE 94-2793941
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY, FREMONT,
CALIFORNIA 94538
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE (ZIP CODE)
OFFICES)
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REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (510) 226-4000
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:
None
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:
Common Stock, par value $.0001 per share
(TITLE OF CLASS)
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Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
Indicate by checkmark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to
the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the
registrant, based upon the closing price of Common Stock on December 10, 1997
as reported by NASDAQ, was approximately $215,164,749. Shares of Common Stock
held by each officer and director and by each person who owns 5% or more of
the outstanding Common Stock have been excluded in that such persons may be
deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not
necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes. The number of
outstanding shares of the registrant's Common Stock on December 10, 1997 was
71,721,583.
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DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Specifically identified portions of the Proxy Statement for Registrant's
1997 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Proxy Statement") are incorporated
by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
IN ADDITION TO HISTORICAL INFORMATION, THIS ANNUAL REPORT CONTAINS CERTAIN
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES, SUCH AS
STATEMENTS OF THE COMPANY'S PLANS, BELIEFS, EXPECTATIONS AND INTENTIONS. THE
COMPANY'S ACTUAL RESULTS COULD DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THE RESULTS DISCUSSED IN
THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. FACTORS THAT COULD CAUSE OR CONTRIBUTE TO SUCH
DIFFERENCE INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THOSE DISCUSSED IN THE SECTION
ENTITLED "MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS--FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS." SYQUEST
UNDERTAKES NO OBLIGATION TO PUBLICLY REVISE THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
TO REFLECT EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES THAT ARISE AFTER THE DATE HEREOF. READERS
SHOULD CAREFULLY REVIEW THE RISK FACTORS DESCRIBED IN OTHER DOCUMENTS THE
COMPANY FILES FROM TIME TO TIME WITH THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
INCLUDING THE QUARTERLY REPORTS ON FORM 10-Q TO BE FILED BY THE COMPANY IN
1998 AND ANY CURRENT REPORTS ON FORM 8-K FILED BY THE COMPANY.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
General
The Company designs, develops, manufactures, and markets removable hard disk
cartridges, associated disk drives and free-standing storage systems. The
Company's products combine the advantages of fixed hard disk drives with the
benefits of removability, which include unlimited incremental expansion of
data storage capacity, transfer and sharing of data and software among
personal computers, backup, archival storage, and physical security of data.
The Company's principal products are 3.5 inch and 5.25 inch cartridges, drives
and storage systems used with personal computers and work stations. The
Company's products are typically purchased by distributors, mail order firms,
national retail chains, value added resellers, original equipment
manufacturers ("OEMs") for integration into their equipment, government
contractors and others for resale to the end users.
Industry Background
Today's computer users are constantly confronted with the necessity of
increased storage capacity to accommodate larger software programs and the
electronic storage of data. These increased requirements can be taxing on
fixed disk drives, the computers primary auxiliary storage device, which do
not offer an efficient method of expandability. However, the Company's award
winning line of products provide users with unlimited expandability and
portability at various price points with the quality and performance
associated with the computer's fixed drive. Other competing products currently
in the market place include: removable drives (where the entire drive unit is
removable rather than only the disk), standard and high capacity floppy
diskettes and drives, tapes and tape drives, magneto optical media and drives,
phase change optical media and drives, WORM (Write Once Read Many) optical
media and drives, CD-ROM (Compact Disk--Read Only Memory) optical media and
drives, CD-R (Compact Disk Rewritable) optical media and drives, and flash
memory devices.
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(1) "SyQuest," "Quest," "SyJet," "SparQ," "EZFlyer," "EZ230," "EZ135,"
"SQ555," "SQ400," "SQ5110C," "SQ800," "SQ5200," "SQ2000," "SQ3105,"
"SQ310," "SQ3270," "SQ327," and "SQ3135," "SQ135," "SQ1100" and "SQ110"
are trademarks of the Company. This Annual Report also includes trademarks
of companies other than SyQuest Technology, Inc.
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The Company believes that its removable disk cartridges and disk drives are
a competitive solution for various business and personal applications due to
their combination of interchangeability, performance and cost. SyQuest
solutions offer users an efficient and affordable media to capture their ideas
and creative genius with quality and reliability.
Products
The Company believes that it has developed and continues to refine a
sophisticated and proprietary removable technology relating to its product
designs and manufacturing processes. The Company's principle products are 3.5
inch and 5.25 inch removable Winchester disk drives, associated cartridges and
system products.
5.25 Inch Products
The 5.25 inch product line (including SyQuest branded systems products)
accounted for 43% of the Company's net revenues in fiscal 1997 compared to 44%
in fiscal 1996 and 60% in fiscal 1995. The 5.25 inch product line includes:
SQ555 & SQ400. The 44 megabyte SQ555 drive and associated SQ400
cartridge. The SQ555 was discontinued and phased out of production in the
second quarter of fiscal 1995. However, the Company continues to
manufacture and sell SQ400 cartridges as part of its legacy product lines.
SQ5110C & SQ800. The 88 megabyte SQ5110C drive and SQ800 cartridge. This
drive was phased out of production in the second quarter of 1996, but
cartridges remain in production and are expected to remain in production
into 1998.
SQ5200 & SQ2000. The 200 megabyte SQ5200 drive and SQ2000 cartridge. The
SQ5200 and SQ2000 products are still in production and are expected to
remain in production into 1998.
Additionally, the Company's recently introduced 4.7 gigabyte Quest drive
utilizes a 5.25 inch platform. There were no sales of this product in fiscal
1997.
3.5 Inch Products
The 3.5 inch product line (including SyQuest branded systems products)
accounted for 57% of the Company's net revenues in fiscal 1997 compared to 56%
in fiscal 1996 and 40% in fiscal 1995. The 3.5 inch product line includes:
SyJet 1.5 gigabyte and SQ15000. The Company's award winning SyJet product
line and associated cartridges.
SparQ and SQ10000. The Company's newly introduced SparQ 1.0 gigabyte
product line and associated cartridges.
EZFlyer 230 and SQ230. The Company's award winning 230 megabyte EZFlyer
230 and associated SQ230 Cartridge.
EZ3135 and SQ135. The 135 megabyte drive and SQ135 cartridge. Production
of this drive was discontinued in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996, but,
the SQ135 cartridges will continue in production to serve the current
installed base.
SQ3270 and SQ327. The 270 megabyte SQ3270 drive and associated SQ327
Cartridge. The SQ3270 family of drives was discontinued in the fourth
quarter of fiscal 1996, but, the SQ327 cartridges will continue in
production to serve the existing installed base.
Systems Products
SyQuest also designs, develops, manufactures and markets storage systems
which incorporate the Company's 3.5 inch and 5.25 inch drives and cartridges.
A system generally consists of a drive, a cartridge and additional components
necessary for a user to attach and operate the system to his computer. These
products, which include the award winning SyJet 1.5 gigabyte, SparQ 1.0
gigabyte, the award winning EZFlyer 230, and 200SS subsystems, are marketed
under the SyQuest brand name to national retail chains, commercial
distributors, computer mail order houses, through the world wide web, and
others.
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Markets and Customers
The Company markets and sells its products through manufacturer
representatives and SyQuest's direct sales force to VADs (Value Added
Distributors), commercial and industrial distributors, systems integrators,
retail sales channels (computer specialty retailers, computer superstores,
computer mail order outlets, etc.) and OEMs. As the market for the Company's
products has become increasingly segmented, diverse sales channels have
developed. While the market for the majority of the Company's products has
been focused on distributors, VADs and systems integrators, the Company's
sales to retailers and superstores have increased from nearly zero in 1994 to
over 16% of the total net revenue in fiscal 1997. The Company believes this
trend will continue into the near future.
The Company believes that continuing advancements and increased end user
accessibility to applications with heavy storage demands such as multimedia,
digital audio and music, digital video and photography, the Internet, computer
graphics, and large software programs such as Windows 95, will benefit the
Company's market by continuing to create a need for more storage. The Company
believe that its various award winning product lines are ideally suited for
these increasing storage requirements.
The Company plans to continue developing aggressive marketing strategies
(channel marketing programs, national and consumer advertising campaigns,
aggressive merchandising, etc.) and commit additional financial resources for
these market strategies in an attempt to capture additional market share and
presence. Additionally, with the new generation of products introduced in
1997, the Company has been working to increase its level of business in the
OEM market. There can be no assurance, however, that these efforts will result
in increases to the Company's sales.
The majority of SyQuest's business is done through commercial distributors
throughout the world. The largest single distributor of SyQuest products is
Ingram Micro, which accounted for approximately 16% of the Company's net
revenue in fiscal 1997 and 10% of net revenue in fiscal 1996.
Recently, the Company and Legend Group ("Legend"), the largest computer
systems manufacturer and distributor in the People's Republic of China,
executed a distribution agreement whereby Legend has become the exclusive
distributor of the Company's products in the developing Chinese market.
A growing segment of the Company's business is the retail/superstore
channel, which now accounts for approximately 16% of the Company's worldwide
revenues. The largest superstore reseller of SyQuest products in fiscal 1997
was CompUSA, which accounted for 3% of the Company's total net revenue. In the
mail order retail channel, MAC/Micro Warehouse continued to be the largest
reseller as it represented nearly 4% of SyQuest's net revenue for fiscal 1997.
Manufacturing
The Company manufactures high volume, mature products in Malaysia. In
addition, the Company assembles system products and manufactures initial
production quantities of new products in Fremont, California.
The Company and Legend have announced that they are in discussions to form a
joint venture company for the manufacture and distribution of the Company's
removable cartridge hard drives and products in China. The Company would
provide the proposed joint venture company with training and manufacturing
know-how to insure that the joint venture had the requisite skills to
manufacture the Company's removable cartridge hard drives and products. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations--Factors That May Affect Future Results--Reliance on Manufacturing
Relationships."
The Company's drive manufacturing operations consist of incoming quality
inspection of components, assembly and test of subassemblies, final assembly
of drives, pretest, burn-in of drives and customer simulation tests. The
cartridge production lines involve extensive media parametric and tribology
testing, assembly of the disk onto a hub, balancing of the cartridge, mapping
of media defects, servowriting and formatting of each cartridge.
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The manufacture of removable cartridge disk drives and disk cartridges is
complicated and difficult. In the past, the Company experienced manufacturing
difficulties, including quality problems, resulting in low yields impacting
the Company's ability to meet sales demand. While the Company is not currently
experiencing any quality problems of a material nature in the manufacturing
process, there can be no assurance that the Company will not experience
manufacturing problems in the future. Any disruption of the Company's
manufacturing could adversely affect the Company's business and results of
operations. Foreign manufacturing is subject to various risks, including
changes of governmental policies, transportation delays and interruptions,
fluctuations in foreign currency and the imposition of tariffs and
import/export controls.
The Company obtains almost all subassemblies and components from outside
sources located principally in the United States and Asia. Several of these
components are available through limited or single sources. In the past, the
failure to obtain sufficient quantities of certain key components or to obtain
components of satisfactory quality has caused production delays. Prolonged
disruptions in the supply of any key components used in the Company's
manufacturing processes could adversely affect the Company's operating results
and damage customer relationships. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Factors That May Affect
Future Results--Shortages of Critical Components; Absence of Supply Contracts;
Suppier Workouts" and "--Reliance on Manufacturing Relationships."
Research and Development
SyQuest's strategy is to focus its research and development efforts on
advancing its proprietary removability technology. At the same time, the
Company takes advantage of developments in the fixed Winchester disk drive
industry by purchasing standard components from vendors that sell to
manufacturers of fixed Winchester disk drives. SyQuest's removability
technology includes both product designs and manufacturing processes and is
built upon expertise in mechanical, electrical and firmware engineering as
well as in tribology.
The Company's current product development efforts are directed toward both
high performance drives and cartridges. SyQuest makes extensive use of
computer-aided design tools in mechanical, electrical, firmware and circuit
board design areas.
In fiscal 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company's research and development
expenses were $17.9 million, $25.9 million and $23.9 million, respectively.
The data storage industry is subject to rapid technological change and short
product life cycles. Data storage manufacturers continually strive for larger
data storage capacities, higher performance and lower costs. Meeting these
demands is more difficult and complicated for manufacturers of removable
cartridge drives such as SyQuest than for fixed drive manufacturers. In order
to remain competitive, the Company must continue to design, develop,
manufacture, market and sell new products in a timely manner. To this end, the
Company has incurred and expects to continue to incur significant product
research and development expenditures. However, there can be no assurance that
SyQuest will be able to introduce cost effective and competitive new products
in a timely manner. If the Company is unable to do so, its future operating
results will be adversely affected. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Factors That May Affect
Future Results--Technological Change and New Products."
Competition
The removable data storage industry is intensely competitive and is
characterized by rapid technological change which can cause substantial shifts
in pricing and product capabilities. The principle competitive factors in the
industry include price, performance, storage capacity, ease of use, customer
consumption, state of the personal computer market, customer service and time-
to-volume production. In addition, smaller form factors, aesthetic appeal,
ruggedness, compatibility and interfaces are important factors. Many of the
Company's competitors have greater financial, marketing and technological
resources than the Company, and there can be no assurance that the Company
will be able to compete effectively. In particular, several of the Company's
competitors have significantly greater cash reserves than the Company which
may enable them to better withstand intense price competition and/or develop
technology over the long term.
5
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The Company believes that its products compete most directly with other
removable media data storage devices, such as disk drives offered by Iomega
Corporation and magneto optical disk drives. While the Company pioneered the
technology used in the Winchester removable cartridge hard disk drive and for
many years enjoyed a unique position in the industry having little direct
competition, the competitive environment changed primarily due to the
activities of two companies. The Company's most direct competition comes from
Iomega, whose Winchester-based Jaz drive competes directly with the Company's
3.5-inch products and is considered by the Company as similar in price and
performance to the Company's SyJet drive.
Although the Company believes that its products offer performance and
certain other advantages over most other removable media storage devices
available today, the Company believes that the price/performance levels of
existing removable media products will improve and that other companies will
introduce new removable media storage devices. Accordingly, the Company
believes that its products will face intense competition from makers of
removable storage products based on other technologies. These technologies and
some of their respective developers include: (optical) Panasonic, Pinnacle
Micro, Maxoptics, Fujitsu; (rewritable CD) Toshiba, Sony, Phillips, Panasonic,
MKE; and LS-120 MKE, OR Technology, Compaq and Swan Instruments. In addition,
the Company may face increased competition in the future from alternative data
storage and retrieval technologies such as high-capacity floppy disk drives,
rewritable CD drives and DVD devices. In particular, a consortium comprising
Compaq Computer, 3M, Insite and Matsushita-Kotobuki Electronics Industries
Ltd. has announced and is selling the LS120, a high-capacity floptical drive
that is compatible with conventional floppy disks. Both Mitsubishi Electric
Corp. and Mitsumi have also announced that they plan to manufacture a high
capacity, floppy drive that is downwardly compatible with existing floppy
diskettes. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations--Factors That May Affect Future Results--
Competition."
Backlog
The Company's sales are primarily for delivery of standard products
according to standard purchase orders, which may be subject to change or
cancellation by the customer without significant penalties. The quantity
actually purchased, as well as the shipment schedules, are frequently revised
to reflect changes in the customer's needs. The Company historically has not
carried a significant backlog of customer orders. Its customers tend to order
product for immediate shipment and, as such, the Company does not have
visibility on order rates and demand for its products generally beyond thirty
days.
Patents and Licenses
Since its inception, the Company has been issued more than 61 U.S. and
foreign patents relating to certain features or components of its disk drive
and cartridge products. Many of these patents, however, do not pertain to the
Company's recent product generation. The Company has approximately 31 pending
U.S. and foreign patent applications, although there can be no assurances that
such applications will mature into patents. No assurance can be given that any
patents issued to the Company will not be challenged, invalidated or
circumvented. In addition to potential patent protection, the Company relies
on the laws of unfair competition, copyright, trademark and trade secrets to
protect its proprietary rights. The Company also utilizes nondisclosure
agreements and internal secrecy procedures. No assurance can be given that the
protective measures taken by the Company will be sufficient to preclude
competitors from developing competing or similar technologies or products.
The Company has been and may in the future be notified that it may be
infringing patent or other proprietary rights. If infringement is established,
the Company could be required to pay damages and be enjoined from selling the
infringing products or practicing the infringing processes. Moreover, if the
Company were unable to alter its products or processes to avoid the
infringement claim, it might be required to obtain licenses and there can be
no assurance that necessary licenses could be obtained on satisfactory terms,
if at all. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations--Factors That May Affect Future Results--Dependence
on Proprietary Technology; Intellectual Property Litigation."
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Employees
As of November 28, 1997, the Company had a total of 1107 full time employees
of which 85 were in research and development, 906 were in manufacturing, 66
were in marketing, sales and support, and 50 were in finance and
administration. Of the total number of employees, the Company has 293
employees located in North America and 814 employees located throughout the
world, principally in Malaysia. The Company makes use of temporary employees,
primarily in manufacturing, who are hired on an as-needed basis. None of the
Company's employees are represented by a labor union. The Company has
experienced no material work stoppages and believes that its employee
relations are good.
Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales
See Note 2 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in
Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for financial information concerning
SyQuest's foreign and domestic operations and export sales, which information
is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's corporate offices, including research and development,
domestic manufacturing, quality assurance, marketing, sales and support, and
finance and administration are located in Fremont, California. The Company
owns its manufacturing facility in Penang, Malaysia; the building is 100,000
square feet and the total land area leased by the Company at such site is
193,432 square feet. The lease on the Penang land area expires in 2050.
SyQuest or one of its subsidiaries leases the facilities described in the
following table:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIZE EXPIRATION OF
LOCATION (SQ. FT.) LEASE PRINCIPAL USE
-------- --------- -------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Fremont, California..... 139,311/1/ April 1999 Administration, Manufacturing and
Research and Development
Berkshire, UK........... 825 June 1998 Administration
Boulder, Colorado....... 13,896 November 1999 Research and Development
Weingarten, Germany..... 4,600 September 1998 Unoccupied
Ismaning, Germany....... 56,000 September 1999 Administration
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Total................... 214,632
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</TABLE>
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/1/ Consists of two adjacent buildings.
The Company also leases or rents office space for sales in the greater
metropolitan areas of Norwalk, Ohio; Fairport, New York; Wauconda, Illinois;
Eden Prairie, Minnesota; Raleigh, North Carolina; Newport Beach and Fremont,
California; Singapore; Paris, France; London and Edinburgh, United Kingdom;
and Tokyo, Japan.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On December 3, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a lawsuit in the United
States District Court in and for the Northern District of California against
the Company. The lawsuit alleges that the Company's use of the trademark SparQ
in connection with its recently introduced SparQ removable cartridge hard
drive product constitutes an infringement of the SPARC trademark owned by
SPARC International, Inc. The complaint requests money damages and a
preliminary and permanent injunction enjoining the Company from further
infringement. On December 19, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a motion
seeking a preliminary injunction enjoining the Company from using the SparQ
trademark on its removable cartridge hard drive products and requesting a
hearing on January 26, 1998. The Company filed a motion requesting a later
hearing date, and a hearing date has been scheduled for March 23, 1998. The
Company believes that it does not infringe any valid trademarks of SPARC
International, Inc. and intends to defend itself vigorously against this
action.
On July 29, 1997, Iomega Corporation ("Iomega") initiated an action for
patent and trademark infringement against SyQuest in the United States
District Court for the District of Delaware. The suit alleges that SyQuest's
SyJet and EZFlyer 230 products infringe United States Utility Patent No.
5,644,444, entitled
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"Read/Write Protect Scheme for a Disk Cartridge and Drive", and that the
cartridges sold by SyQuest for use with its SyJet and EZFlyer 230 products
infringe United States Design Patent No. Des. 378,518, entitled "Computer
Storage Disk Cartridge." The suit further alleges that SyQuest has infringed
Iomega's claimed "Jet" trademark and engaged in unfair competition through the
use of the "SyJet" name for one of it products. Iomega seeks a judgment of
infringement, monetary damages, injunctive relief, disgorgement of profits,
trebled actual damages on the disputed products, and attorneys' fees. Iomega
also seeks exemplary damages and attorneys' fees based on SyQuest's alleged
willful infringement of Iomega's claimed trademark. SyQuest has filed an
answer and counterclaim denying infringement and requesting a declaratory
judgment that the patents-in-suit are invalid and not infringed. The case is
in the early stages of discovery. In interrogatory responses served December
3, 1997, Iomega asserted that SyQuest's recently introduced SparQ product and
not yet introduced Quest product infringe Iomega's design patent and that it
is investigating whether it believes that the SparQ or Quest products infringe
Iomega's utility patent. The Court has set a trial date of January 11, 1999.
SyQuest believes it has meritorious defenses to Iomega's allegations and
intends to defend the case vigorously.
On or about June 10, 1997, the Company initiated litigation against
Castlewood Systems, Inc. and eleven (11) former Company employees in Santa
Clara Superior Court, No. 766757 asserting ten (10) causes of action,
including claims for misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition,
and breach of fiduciary duty. On or about July 16, 1997, Castlewood filed a
Cross-Complaint against the Company, alleging three (3) causes of action
(interference with prospective economic advantage; unfair competition; trade
libel). The Company seeks money damages and an injunction from engaging in
such conduct. Since that time, the parties have engaged exclusively in
hearings before Thomas E. Schatzel, Esq., the Court-appointed discovery
referee, to finalize the Company's identification of trade secrets in
accordance with the requirements of the California Code of Civil Procedure (S)
2019 (d). The Company's Seconded Amended Identification of Trade Secrets was
deemed acceptable by the Discovery Referee on October 20, 1997. Discovery has
only recently begun, and there can be no assurance as to what impact this
litigation may have on the Company.
In 1996, the Company filed suit against Nomai, S.A. (Nomai) and Maxell in
France for copyright and patent infringement. The Company initiated an
arbitration proceeding against Nomai seeking payment of outstanding royalties
of approximately $1 million. On January 27, 1997, the Company filed a
Complaint in the United States District Court in Northern District of
California against Nomai, S.A., Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin, Herve Frouin,
Electronique d2, and La Cie Ltd., entitled SyQuest Technology, Inc. v. Nomai,
S.A. et al. (Case No. C97-0271 FMS) (the "Nomai Action") alleging patent and
trademark infringement, misrepresentation, breach of contract and other
claims. During April through June 1997, Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin and Herve
Frouin (collectively the "Nomai Parties") filed certain Cross-Complaints
against the Company. The parties have engaged in discussions concerning the
terms of a potential resolution to the Nomai Action. The Company and the Nomai
Parties have resolved the claims alleged in the Nomai action on December 16,
1997, pursuant to a Settlement Agreement, ("Settlement Agreement"). In
accordance with the Settlement Agreement a stipulation to dismiss the
Company's complaint and the Nomai's Parties' cross-complaint with prejudice
was filed. The Nomai Action remains pending against defendants Electronique d2
and La Cie Ltd.
On, March 7, 1997, RKS Design, Inc. filed suit against the Company alleging
that the Company failed to pay $48,394.21 of interest charges on fees charged
for design services rendered with respect to its EZ Flyer and SyJet products.
The suit requests damages including profits associated with these products,
interest and attorneys' fees. The Company has filed a counterclaim asserting,
inter alia, that no amount is owing to RKS, and that the Company is entitled
to a refund of certain overpayments made to RKS. The Company does not believe
that this claim will have a material adverse affect on the Company or its
financial position or its results of operations.
The Company has been named as a defendant in four putative class action
lawsuits. Two of the actions, Ravens, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed April
2, 1996) and Belleza, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed May 24, 1996) have been
brought in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
California and have been assigned to the Honorable Vaughn Walker
(collectively, the "Federal Lawsuit"). Certain current and former officers and
directors also have been named as defendants in the Federal Lawsuit. The
plaintiffs in the Federal Lawsuit purport to represent a class of all persons
who purchased the Company's Common Stock between October 21,
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1994 and February 1, 1996. The Federal Lawsuit alleges that the defendants
violated the federal securities laws through certain alleged material
misrepresentations and omissions and seek unspecified damages. In general, the
litigation alleges insider trading by certain officers and directors of the
Company, failures to disclose on a timely basis contamination problems in the
SQ3270 drive, failure to disclose on a timely basis that the EZ135 drive could
not be sold profitably given the cost of production, and the failure of
certain of the Company's financial statements to reflect properly the value of
inventory relating to those two drives. In January 1997, the federal court
denied the motion of certain plaintiffs to be appointed lead plaintiffs under
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Reform Act") on the
ground, inter alia, that the plaintiffs' published notice to the class did not
constitute adequate notice of the litigation under the Reform Act. In July
1997, the federal court denied a motion for reconsideration of its prior order
and directed the plaintiffs to issue a revised notice and/or amend their
complaint by August 22, 1997, or be subject to a motion to dismiss or for
summary judgement. Plaintiffs have informed the Court that they elect to stand
on the existing notice and complaint.
The third suit is a purported class action entitled Gary S. Kaufman v.
SyQuest Technology Inc., et al. was filed on March 25, 1996, in the Superior
Court of the State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Kaufman
Lawsuit"). The fourth purported class action, entitled Ravens, et al. v.
Iftikar, et al., was filed on October 11, 1996, in the Superior Court of the
State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Ravens Lawsuit"). The
Kaufman Lawsuit and the Ravens Lawsuit (collectively the "State Court
Lawsuit") have been consolidated and a Consolidated Amended Complaint was
filed on December 6, 1996. The allegations are essentially the same as in the
Federal Lawsuits and seek unspecified damages and punitive damages on behalf
of all persons who purchased the Company's Common Stock from October 21, 1994
and February 1, 1996. Pursuant to a Stipulation and Order entered on August 6,
1997, the State Court Lawsuit has been referred to mediation before a retired
federal judge.
On May 14, 1996, the Company was served with a shareholder derivative action
filed in Alameda County, California, Superior Court entitled John Nitti, et
al. v. Syed Iftikar, et al (the "Derivate Lawsuit"). On July 22, 1996,
plaintiffs filed an amended complaint. The action seeks to recover unspecified
damages and punitive damages on behalf of the Company from current and former
officers and directors of the Company for alleged breach of fiduciary duty,
unjust enrichment and waste of corporate assets. The Company is a nominal
defendant in the action. The complaint alleges that the officers and directors
issued false and misleading information and sold shares of the Company's stock
at artificially inflated prices. The allegations are essentially the same as
those in the putative class actions. Counsel for plaintiffs in the Derivative
Lawsuit are participating in the mediation ordered for the State Court Lawsuit
that is described above.
The Company intends to defend the Federal Lawsuit, the State Court Lawsuit
and the Derivative Lawsuit vigorously, but there can be no assurance as to
what financial effect this litigation may have on the Company. If there is an
adverse result, the Company does not expect any particular product line to be
effected as the plaintiffs seek monetary, rather than injunctive relief.
Nevertheless, a materially unfavorable outcome could have an adverse effect on
the Company's financial condition, results of operations and cash flow. No
loss contingency has been provided for these lawsuits as the amounts of any
loss, if any, are not yet determinable or reasonably estimable.
Periodically, the Company is made aware that technology used by the Company
in the manufacture of some or all of its products may infringe on product or
process technology rights held by others. Resolution of whether the Company's
manufacture of products has infringed on valid rights held by others could
have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results
of operations, and may require material changes in production processes and
products. Several companies have individually contacted the Company concerning
its alleged use of intellectual property belonging to them. Companies that
have contacted the Company include one company that has alleged that the
Company's products infringe six U.S. patents. It is the Company's belief that
the claims are without merit or that the infringement claims relate to
component parts purchased from vendors. The Company also believes that in the
event this company prevailed on its claims, the Company would be indemnified
by its vendors for any liability arising from the alleged infringements and
that this matter will not have a material adverse effect upon its financial
condition or results of operations. Another company has notified the Company
that it believes a number of the Company's removable cartridge hard drives
products infringe several of its patents relating to the use of spin motors in
disc drives. The Company believes that its removable
9
<PAGE>
cartridge hard drive products do not infringe the claims of these patents and
that some or all of the asserted patents are invalid.
Patent and similar litigation frequently is complex and expensive and its
outcome can be difficult to predict. There can be no assurance that the
Company will prevail in any proceedings that have been or may be commenced
against the Company. In addition, certain technology used in the Company's
products is licensed from third parties. The termination of any such license
arrangements could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business
and financial results.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The Company held its annual meeting of its stockholders and one special
meeting of its stockholders on May 6, 1997 and November 5, 1997 respectively.
All of the proposals submitted to the stockholders at the meeting were
approved, and the vote on such proposals is described below:
A proposal to elect directors to serve for the ensuing year and until their
successors are elected.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
For............................................................ 27,532,460
Against........................................................ 7,023
Abstain........................................................ 420,705
Broker Non-Vote................................................ 0
</TABLE>
A proposal to approve an amendment to the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of the Company's
Common Stock from 60,000,000 to 120,000,000 and to decrease the stated par
value of the Company's Common Stock and Preferred Stock from $0.001 to
$0.0001.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
For............................................................ 47,519,671
Against........................................................ 2,612,177
Abstain........................................................ 244,901
Broker Non-Vote................................................ 0
</TABLE>
A proposal to ratify the appointment of Price Waterhouse LLP as independent
accountants of the Company for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
For............................................................ 26,114,727
Against........................................................ 1,742,141
Abstain........................................................ 103,320
Broker Non-Vote................................................ 0
</TABLE>
A proposal to approve an Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation to
increase the authorized number of share of the Company's common stock from
120,000,000 to 240,000,000.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
For............................................................ 27,767,100
Against........................................................ 112,583
Abstain........................................................ 80,505
Broker Non-Vote................................................ 0
</TABLE>
A proposal to adopt the Company's 1997 Stock Incentive Plan.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
For............................................................ 13,344,299
Against........................................................ 3,096,015
Abstain........................................................ 279,615
Broker Non-Vote................................................ 31,583,200
</TABLE>
10
<PAGE>
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
SyQuest's Common Stock, $.0001 par value, was first offered to the public on
December 18, 1991 and since that time has been traded in the over-the-counter
market as a Nasdaq National Market security under the symbol SYQT. The
following table sets forth, during the periods indicated, high and low closing
sales prices in the Nasdaq National Market system for the last two fiscal
years:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 HIGH LOW
------------------ --------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
First Quarter............................................. $ 6 11/16 $3 11/16
Second Quarter............................................ $ 3 7/8 $1 3/4
Third Quarter............................................. $ 2 3/4 $1 3/4
Fourth Quarter............................................ $ 3 5/32 $2 1/4
<CAPTION>
FISCAL YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 HIGH LOW
------------------ --------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
First Quarter............................................. $13 1/2 $8 7/8
Second Quarter............................................ $11 1/4 $4 7/8
Third Quarter............................................. $18 7/8 $4 3/8
Fourth Quarter............................................ $ 8 5/8 $5
</TABLE>
The Company's policy is to retain its earnings to finance future growth and
it has paid no cash dividends in the last three fiscal years. The Company does
not anticipate declaring cash dividends on its Common Stock in the forseeable
future. In addition, the payment of cash dividends is restricted by certain of
the Company's borrowing arrangements. See Note 4 of Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements. As of December 10, 1997, there were approximately 49,000
stockholders of record. Because many of such shares are held by brokers and
other institutions on behalf of stockholders, the Company is unable to
estimate the total number of stockholders represented by these record holders.
ITEM 6. SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected consolidated financial data is derived from the
audited consolidated financial statements of SyQuest. The data should be read
in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations included in Items 7 and 8 of this Annual Report.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
-------- --------- -------- -------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net revenue.................. $122,723 $ 200,407 $299,544 $221,001 $206,362
Gross profit (loss).......... (901) (48,286) 51,047 60,659 75,281
Income (loss) from
operations.................. (63,971) (130,676) (17,109) 5,126 19,278
Net income (loss)............ $(68,671) $(136,651) $(11,786) $ 5,405 $ 15,212
INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE(1):
Basic income (loss).......... $ (2.25) $ (12.38) $ (1.07) $ 0.49 $ 1.32
Diluted income (loss)........ $ (2.25) $ (12.38) $ (1.07) $ 0.46 $ 1.23
Weighted average number of
shares outstanding.......... 34,815 11,497 11,063 11,647 12,340
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
----------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
------ -------- ------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL CONDITION
DATA:
Working capital...................... $1,436 $(37,351) $62,340 $72,652 $69,638
Total assets......................... 82,649 75,181 164,684 139,501 120,503
Total long-term debt................. 4,024 20,971 -- -- --
Total stockholders' equity
(deficit)........................... 5,613 (30,353) 83,188 90,845 89,544
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) The computation of loss per share for the years ended September 30, 1997
and 1996, includes adjustments representing preferred stock dividends,
adjustments for the "embedded yield" representing the discount on the
assumed potential conversion of the Convertible Preferred Stock, and
amounts representing value assigned to warrants issued in conjunction with
certain Convertible Preferred Stock financings completed during the year.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated
financial statements and notes thereto.
During fiscal 1997, the Company reduced its net loss from $136.7 million in
fiscal 1996 to $68.7 million while net revenue declined from $200.4 million in
fiscal 1996 to $122.7 million in fiscal 1997. The revenue decrease resulted
primarily from reduced revenue from the Company's older "legacy" products
which represent earlier generations of removable cartridge hard drive products
which have generally been replaced by newer generation products with greater
performance and capacity. The Company's newer products, EZ Flyer 230 and
SyJet, partially off-set the decline in revenue from "legacy" products during
the current fiscal year. The decline in the net loss for fiscal 1997 as
compared to fiscal 1996 resulted primarily from reductions in the material
component of the cost of products, reduced reserves related to inventory,
reduced restructuring charges, warranty cost and the benefits of other cost
reduction programs implemented by management during fiscal 1996 and throughout
fiscal 1997.
The Company has accumulated losses during the fiscal years ended September
30, 1997, 1996 and 1995 totaling approximately $220 million. The Company has
funded the cumulative losses primarily by issuance of additional capital stock
for cash proceeds of approximately $120 million. At the November, 1997 Special
Stockholders' Meeting the Stockholders approved increasing the Company's
authorized capital stock from 120 million common shares to 240 million common
shares. Further sustained losses will necessitate future additional financings
that if raised through the issuance of equity securities existing stockholders
would experience additional dilution. The inability to raise additional cash
on favorable terms when needed and continued losses will adversely effect the
Company's ability to maintain that listing on the Nasdaq National Market. The
Company's inabililty to maintain its listing would likely have a material and
adverse effect on the market price of the Company's Common Stock and on its
ability to raise additional needed capital.
FISCAL 1997 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1996
Net Revenue
Net revenue for the year ended September 30, 1997 was $122.7 million, a
decrease of 38.8 percent as compared to net revenue of $200.4 million in
fiscal 1996. The decrease resulted primarily from a decline in revenue from
the Company's older "legacy" products (EZ135, SQ3270 and associated
cartridges) of approximately $110 million or 64.5 percent which was partially
off-set by net revenue from the introduction of EZ Flyer 230 during the fourth
quarter of fiscal 1996 and the SyJet which was introduced during the second
quarter of fiscal 1997. The Company experienced significant price pressure
during fiscal 1997 which resulted in a decrease of 27.9 percent in the price
of the 3.25 drive systems. Unit shipments during fiscal 1997 decreased 85
percent for 5.25 inch drive systems, increased 38 percent for 3.25 inch drive
systems and decreased 62.3 percent for cartridges. Cartridge net
12
<PAGE>
revenue as a percentage of total net revenue was 48 percent in fiscal 1997 as
compared to 49 percent in fiscal 1996. Net revenue from the Company's older
legacy products represented 42.6 percent of total net revenue while EZ Flyer
230 and SyJet represented 57.4 percent of total net revenue in fiscal 1997.
The Company anticipates that net revenue from legacy products will continue to
decline as a percentage of future net revenue.
Net revenue from European shipments represented 36 percent of total net
revenue during fiscal 1997. This reflects a decrease of approximately $13.4
million or 23.4 percent as compared to fiscal 1996. This decrease resulted
primarily from a change in European sales management, discontinuation of
channel distribution relationships and consolidation of European operations to
reduce cost.
During the first quarter of fiscal 1998 the Company introduced a new 1.0
gigabyte hard drive storage system named SparQ and a 4.7 gigabyte hard drive
storage system named Quest. SparQ is a low cost high performance product aimed
at the mass market and Quest is a competitively priced high capacity product
aimed at the Audio Video and Information Technology markets. The Company
anticipates that SparQ will contribute a significant portion of its fiscal
1998 net revenue.
Gross Profit (Loss)
The Company reported a gross loss for the current fiscal year of $0.9
million as compared to a gross loss of $48.3 million in fiscal 1996. The
improvement in the gross loss of $47.4 million or 98.1 percent resulted
primarily from reduced charges to cost of goods sold ($23.9 million) related
to the decision to discontinue the EZ135/SQ3270 drive products during the
second half of fiscal 1996, an increase in the mix of revenue toward the newer
higher margin products, manufacturing cost reductions, reduced warranty
expense, foreign exchange benefits related to the Malaysian Ringitt and
efficiencies realized as a result of increased utilization of the production
facilities. The improvements to the gross profit were off-set by significant
price reductions during the year as discussed in the net revenue section
above.
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
The reported selling, general and administrative expense for the current
year decreased $6.6 million to $45.1 million, or 36.8 percent of net revenue,
as compared to fiscal 1996. The decrease resulted primarily from reduced bad
debt expense, consolidation of European operations and ongoing cost reduction
and business simplification efforts. These cost reductions were partially
offset by increased advertising and marketing efforts incurred to promote the
introduction of new products and stimulate sales demand and increased legal
expenses related to various legal proceedings. Overall the number of employees
decreased by 35.2 percent to 116 employees at September 30, 1997.
Research and Development Expense
The reported research and development expense for the current year decreased
$7.9 million to $18 million, or 14.7 percent of net revenue, as compared to
fiscal 1996. The decrease resulted primarily from focused engineering effort
on core product and cost reduction efforts. The number of employees decreased
by 59 percent to 85 employees at September 30, 1997.
Interest Income and Expense
The reported interest expense for the current year increased $3.1 million to
$4.3 million, or 3.5 percent of net revenue, as compared to 1 percent of net
revenue in fiscal year 1996. The increase resulted primarily from increased
borrowings under the Company's bank borrowings. The average bank borrowing for
the current year was $18.8 million as compared to $11.9 million in fiscal
1996. Additionally, approximately $2.0 million of accounts payable balances
were converted to notes payable with an average interest rate of 10 percent.
The interest expense on vendor notes payable increased $1.6 million in the
current year as compared to fiscal 1996.
Approximately $92.6 million of cash was raised through various equity
financing transactions during the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997.
Available cash was invested in liquid money market accounts and earned
interest income of approximately $0.2 million in the current year as compared
to $0.2 million in fiscal 1996.
13
<PAGE>
Income Taxes
The reported provision for income taxes was $0.4 million in the current
fiscal year as compared to $3.0 million in fiscal 1996. The provision for
taxes in fiscal 1996 resulted primarily from an increase in the deferred tax
asset valuation allowance greater than the expected tax benefit computed by
applying the federal statutory rate to the fiscal 1996 loss. The provision for
income taxes in the current year reflects the mix of the sources of
income/loss by geographic region within which the Company has operations. As
of September 30, 1997, a valuation allowance in the amount equal to the net
deferred tax asset has been recorded. Realization of the deferred tax benefit
is dependent on future taxable earnings, the timing and amount of which are
uncertain.
The Company successfully negotiated a tax holiday with Malaysian authorities
exempting a significant amount of profits generated by its Penang, Malaysia
operation from Malaysian tax. While there can be no assurance that the Company
will be able to continue to meet the conditions of the tax holiday, if any,
Management believes it will be able to realize a tax holiday in Malaysia in
the future. The provision for Malaysian taxes in the current year is provided
in anticipation of the likely tax holiday.
FISCAL 1996 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1995
Net Revenues
Fiscal 1996 revenues declined by 33% to $200.4 million from $299.5 million
in fiscal 1995. The revenue reduction can be attributed to sharply reduced
prices for the Company's EZ135 and SQ3270 3.5 inch products, and reduced unit
sales and lower average selling prices (ASP's) for all 5.25 inch platform
drives and cartridges (down 50% from fiscal year 1995), which were partially
offset by the successful introduction of the EZ Flyer 230 in the fourth
quarter of fiscal 1996. From fiscal 1995 to fiscal 1996, ASPs for 5.25 inch
drives and subsystems declined 9%, 3.5 inch drive and subsystem ASPs declined
37% and cartridge ASPs declined 29%. Cartridge revenue as a percentage of
total revenue was 49% in both fiscal years. Cartridge unit sales volume
declined 3% from fiscal 1995 to fiscal 1996 while unit drive volume decreased
4% for the same period. The Company's mature 5.25 inch products comprised 44%
of revenue in fiscal 1996 after representing 60% of revenue in fiscal 1995.
The Company reached volume production with the EZ Flyer 135 (EZ135) in the
first quarter of fiscal 1996; however, during that quarter the Company
experienced certain vendor related component supply and quality problems which
limited its ability to fill its open customer backlog. Over the balance of
fiscal 1996, a competitor marketed a product with a lower cost structure than
the EZ135, causing the Company to lower its price in order to maintain market
share. In the second quarter of fiscal 1996, the Company decided to cease
production of the EZ135 drive as soon as economically possible, and sales of
EZ135 drives ended in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996. However, cartridge
production and sales traditionally continue beyond the final production of the
associated drive in the removable cartridge disk drive industry.
The Company's EZ Flyer 230, a new 3.5 inch product that began shipping in
the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996, contributed approximately 6% of total
revenue for the year.
The data storage industry is subject to rapid technological change and short
product life cycles. Data storage manufacturers continually strive for larger
data storage capacities, higher performance and lower costs. Meeting these
demands is more difficult and complicated for manufacturers of removable
cartridge drives such as SyQuest than for fixed drive manufacturers. In order
to remain competitive, the Company must continue to design, develop,
manufacture, market and sell new products in a timely manner. To this end, in
the fourth fiscal quarter of 1996 the Company announced a 1.5 gigabyte, 3.5
inch product (SyJet) but had not yet commenced volume production. The Company
believes the SyJet will contribute a significant portion of its fiscal 1997
revenue. However, there can be no assurance that SyQuest will be able to
introduce this or other cost effective and competitive new products in a
timely manner. If the Company is unable to do so, its future operating results
will be adversely affected.
14
<PAGE>
Gross Profit (Loss)
The gross loss for the year ended September 30, 1996 was $48.3 million
compared to a gross profit of $51.0 million in the previous fiscal year. The
negative gross margin as a percentage of net revenue was 24% in fiscal 1996
compared to a positive gross margin of 17% in fiscal 1995. The decline in
gross margin is primarily attributable to losses incurred on the sale of and
reserves established for the EZ135/SQ3270 systems, and ongoing reductions in
ASP and unit sales for the Company's current line of 5.25 inch products.
The Company made a strategic decision in fiscal 1995 to enter the growing
SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) marketplace and acquire market share with the
EZ135 rather than wait until it could introduce a low cost, low-end product.
Due to competitive pressures, the Company reduced selling prices in order to
maintain market share, but was unable to make corresponding reductions in
manufacturing costs. As a result, the EZ135 and another subsystem product, the
SQ3270, were sold for most of fiscal 1996 at negative gross margins. This was
a significant factor in the Company's substantial operating loss in fiscal
1996.
In addition, the Company experienced a general decline in product prices
which reduced the gross profit margins of its 5.25 inch and 3.5 inch drives,
subsystems and cartridges. The decline in cartridge ASPs from fiscal 1995 to
fiscal 1996 was 29%. Average 5.25 inch drive and subsystem prices decreased
approximately 9% for the same period. From fiscal 1995 to fiscal 1996, EZ135
subsystem ASPs declined 30% and SQ3270 drives and subsystem ASPs declined 16%.
During fiscal 1996, EZ135 and SQ3270 drive and subsystem ASPs declined 45% and
58%, respectively. Rapid price declines are common in the disk drive industry
and there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve
manufacturing cost reductions or introduce higher capacity products, which
generally have higher selling prices per unit, rapidly enough to offset the
pricing pressures on lower capacity products.
In the second half of fiscal 1996, management changes were made and the
Company initiated changes in product focus, financing, manufacturing
operations, and business processes. The EZ135/SQ3270 drive products were
declared "end-of-life" in the second fiscal quarter, with remaining inventory
and purchase commitments being managed to minimize cash requirements. The
final sales of the EZ135/SQ3270 drive products were completed in the fourth
fiscal quarter of 1996. The discontinuing of the EZ135/SQ3270 drives resulted
in charges to cost of goods sold of approximately $21.4 million in fiscal
1996, including $8.1 million of obsolete and excess inventories and $13.3
million for non-cancellable purchase commitments. The Company further granted
customers an opportunity to return EZ135 product for a refund. This resulted
in significant product returns in the third and fourth quarters of fiscal
1996. The Company incurred a charge to earnings of approximately $2.5 million
to write-off the portion of those returns which could not be resold.
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses were $51.7 million for fiscal
1996 versus $44.3 million for fiscal 1995. The increase in expenses was
primarily attributable to an increase of $3.8 million in provisions for bad
debt and an increase in legal expenses from $1.2 million to $2.3 million
primarily attributable to various legal proceedings in which the Company is
engaged. The Company also incurred an increase of approximately $1.9 million
in general and administrative costs in fiscal 1996 over fiscal 1995, due to
duplicate administrative costs during the transition of manufacturing
operations from Singapore to Malaysia.
The Company continued to invest in its sales and marketing efforts despite
the decline in revenue from fiscal 1995 to fiscal 1996 as it endeavored to
increase the market presence of the Company's products.
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses totaled $25.9 million in fiscal 1996, an
increase of $2.0 million from fiscal 1995. This represents 12.9% of revenue in
fiscal 1996, compared to 8.0% in fiscal 1995. The increase in spending is
primarily due to increased number of employees and related costs. The increase
as a percentage of revenue is due to the increase in expense and the decline
of revenue from fiscal 1995 to fiscal 1996. The Company believes that it must
continue to make significant investments in R&D in order to effectively
implement its product strategy and continues to make these investments despite
the decline in revenue from 1995 to 1996.
15
<PAGE>
Restructuring Expenses
Restructuring expenses were incurred during fiscal 1996 for the transfer of
manufacturing operations previously located in Singapore to the Company's
facility in Penang, Malaysia to lower costs and eliminate excess capacity, and
for the relocation of the Company's European headquarters from the Netherlands
to Germany. Restructuring charges from discontinued operations in Singapore
included $1.4 million for severance and other benefits affecting approximately
1,500 employees, $0.6 million for site closure and related costs and $1.6
million for write-off of capital assets. The shutdown was completed in the
third quarter of fiscal 1996. Restructuring charges related to the movement of
the Company's European headquarters to Germany totaled $1.1 million and
included severance costs and write-off of capital assets in the Netherlands,
as well as certain legal expenses.
Other Income and Expenses
Other expenses in fiscal 1996 include $2.1 million in losses incurred on the
sale of excess and obsolete fixed assets and approximately $0.6 million in
foreign exchange losses. These expenses were partially offset by a $0.7
million gain realized on the disposition of common stock of a third party used
to reduce certain debt owed to one of the Company's suppliers.
Interest Income and Expense
The Company incurred $1.2 million of interest expense on its borrowings and
earned $0.2 million of interest income on its investments in fiscal 1996. The
interest expense for fiscal 1996 was primarily the result of borrowings under
the Company's bank lines of credit. There were no borrowings and interest
income on investments was $1.1 million in fiscal 1995.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes was $3.0 million in fiscal 1996 as compared
to a net tax benefit of $3.7 million in fiscal 1995. The provision in 1996 was
primarily due to an increase in the deferred tax asset valuation allowance
which exceeded the expected tax benefit computed by applying the federal
statutory rate to the fiscal 1996 loss. Realization of the net deferred tax
asset of $50 million as of September 30, 1996 is dependent on future earnings,
the timing and amount of which are uncertain. Accordingly, as of September 30,
1996, a valuation allowance in an amount equal to the net deferred tax asset
has been recorded. In fiscal 1995, the Company recorded a tax benefit of $3.7
million representing an effective tax rate of 24%. The effective rate was less
than the federal statutory rate primarily due to foreign losses for which no
current income tax benefit could be recognized and the provision for income
taxes on foreign earnings previously considered to be permanently reinvested
offshore.
The Company's manufacturing operations in Singapore, prior to their
relocation to Penang, Malaysia, operated under a tax holiday that expired in
September 1996. The tax holiday had no impact on net income in fiscal 1996 or
1995.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company is in a turnaround situation which necessitates certain action
by Management which affect the business environment in which the Company
operates. At September 30, 1997, the Company's book net worth was $5.6 million
as compared to a book net worth of negative $30.4 million at the end of fiscal
1996. Working capital at September 30, 1997 was $1.4 million as compared to a
negative $37.4 million at the end of fiscal 1996. The increase to book net
worth and working capital resulted primarily from equity financing completed
during fiscal 1997 of approximately $92 million partially offset by a net loss
of $68.7 million. In the first quarter of fiscal 1998 the Company raised
additional cash of approximately $36.0 million by issuing $10 million of
convertible preferred stock and $20 million through the exercise of
outstanding warrants.
The Company continues to face significant risks associated with successful
execution of its turnaround strategy. These risks include, but are not limited
to technology and product development, introduction and market acceptance of
new products, changes in the marketplace, liquidity, competition from existing
and new competitors which may enter the marketplace and retention of key
personnel.
16
<PAGE>
The Company has recently introduced newer generation products with greater
capacity and performance than its older "legacy" products. These newer
products in production during the current fiscal year are the EZ Flyer 230 and
SyJet. Two additional new products introduced during the first fiscal quarter
of fiscal 1998 are SparQ and Quest. The Company historically has not carried a
significant backlog of customer orders. Its customers tend to order product
for immediate shipment and, as such, Management does not have visibility on
order rates and demand for its products generally beyond thirty days. There
can be no assurance that these new products will achieve market acceptance.
As a result of new product introductions and funding continued operating
losses, the Company needs sufficient capital to implement a marketing strategy
that will adequately address the appropriate markets and generate sales demand
for its current and planned future products. Accumulated losses during the
fiscal years ended September 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997 totaled approximately
$220 million. The Company has funded the cumulative losses primarily by
issuance of additional capital stock for cash proceeds of approximately $92
million. At the November, 1997 Special Stockholders' Meeting the Stockholders
approved increasing the Company's authorized capital stock from 120 million
common shares to 240 million common shares. Further sustained losses will
necessitate future additional financings that if raised through the issuance
of equity securities existing stockholders would experience additional
dilution. The inability to raise additional cash when needed and continued
losses will adversly effect the Company's ability to maintain its listing on
the Nasdaq National Market. The Company's inability to maintain that listing
would likely have a material and adverse effect on the market price of the
Company's Common Stock and on its ability to raise additional needed capital.
The following table sets forth in summary form the Company's material
financing activities from June 1996 through October 1997. The terms of these
financings are described in seven of the Company's Current Reports on Form 8-K
dated, respectively, June 14, 1996, October 31, 1996, November 11, 1996,
February 28, 1997, May 30, 1997, August 4, 1997, and October 4, 1997.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESULTING
PREFERRED GROSS COMMON WARRANTS
DATE SERIES/TRANSACTION SHARES PROCEEDS SHARES ISSUED
---- ------------------ --------- ------------ ---------- ----------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
6/96 7% Cumulative Convertible Preferred 20,000(2) $ 20,000,000 10,301,708 --
Stock, Series 1
7/96 6% Convertible Subordinated -- $ 7,700,000(5) -- --
Debenture(1)
9/96-10/96 Various Debt to Equity exchanges -- 24,440,000(5) 8,047,269 --
2/97-4/97
10/96 Cumulative Convertible Preferred 5,500(2) $ 5,500,000 3,289,981 1,096,660
Stock, Series 1
10/96 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred 24,500(2) $ 24,500,000 12,440,447 4,146,816
Stock, Series 2
11/96 Common Stock Sale -- $ 8,500,000 1,500,000 1,875,000
4/97 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred 50,000 $ 5,000,000 2,485,070 5,000,000
Stock, Series 3
5/97 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred 280,000(3) $ 28,000,000 10,069,645 28,000,000
Stock, Series 4
8/97 Common Stock Sale -- $ 3,500,000 1,382,716 3,500,000
9/97-10/97 Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 5 30,000(4) $ 30,000,000 -- 21,000,000
------- ------------ ---------- ----------
Total 410,000 $157,140,000 49,516,836(6) 64,618,476
======= ============ ========== ==========
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) The 6% Convertible Subordinated Debenture, was issued as part of a debt to
equity transaction, $2,775,000 is convertible into up to 400,000 shares of
the Company's Common Stock at a conversion price of $6.9375 per share.
(2) All preferred shares have been converted into the resulting common stock
noted.
(3) 53,580 shares of the Series 4 Preferred Stock remain unconverted.
(4) There have been no conversions of the Series 5 Preferred Stock.
(5) No cash proceeds were received by the Company.
(6) On December 10, 1997, assuming the conversion of all remaining preferred
stock, the exercise of warrants and other stock commitments, the Company
would have approximately 153 million shares issued and outstanding
17
<PAGE>
Through much of fiscal 1996 the Company was unable to obtain regular
business terms with its suppliers as a result of continued losses and
liquidity issues. Consequently, the Company was often in a position of
conducting business with its suppliers on a C.O.D. basis. During fiscal 1997,
the Company has experienced a return to regular business terms with its key
suppliers, although some vendors still require C.O.D. terms or security
deposits. The Company may from time to time experience difficulty in the
future in obtaining a sufficient supply of many key components due to the
shortage of cash to pay suppliers on a timely basis. A disruption in the
supply of key components would have a material adverse affect on sales and the
ability to successfully produce product in volumes necessary to meet demand.
The cash and short-term investment balance at September 30, 1997 increased
to $7.1 million as compared to $3.7 million at the end of fiscal 1996. Working
capital needs have been financed through a combination of existing cash
resources, improved asset management of accounts receivable and inventory
balances, conversion of vendor notes into equity and a series of capital
financing transactions completed during the current fiscal year.
The Company's liquidity may be adversely effected in the future by factors
such as higher interest rates, inability to borrow without collateral,
availability of capital financing transactions and continued losses from
operations. Further, significant fluctuations in quarterly operating results
has had and, in the future, may continue to have a negative effect on the
Company's liquidity. Factors such as price reductions, the introduction and
market acceptance of new products, product returns, availability of critical
components have had an adverse effect on the Company's products and have
contributed to this quarterly variability. Moreover, the expense levels are
based in part on expectations of future sales levels, and a shortfall in
expected sales could therefore result in a disproportionate decrease in the
results of operations. As such, the results of operations in some future
period may be below the expectations of investors, which would likely result
in a significant reduction in the market price of the Common Stock. A decline
in the market price of the Common Stock would have a negative effect on the
Company's ability to raise needed capital on acceptable terms and conditions
to Management.
The revenue, operating loss and loss per share for the four quarter of
fiscal 1997 are presented below to illustrate the quarterly fluctuations
during the most recent fiscal year. The loss per share has been recalculated
in order to be presented on a consistent basis with the re-statement discussed
in footnote Number 10 and the Consolidated Financial Statements.The change in
the presentation of the earnings per share had no impact on the reported
operating loss for the periods presented.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
-------- -------- -------- -------
(THE TABLE IS PRESENTED IN
MILLIONS,
EXCEPT FOR LOSS PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue.............................. $ 48.3 $ 16.8 $ 31.7 $ 25.9
Net Loss............................. $ (6.8) $ (33.7) $ (10.7) $ (17.5)
Basic and Diluted Loss per share..... $ (0.86) $ (1.31) $ (0.31) $ (0.33)
Weighted average shares.............. 14,673 26,206 44,054 53,806
</TABLE>
Net accounts receivable at September 30, 1997 totaled $19.5 million compared
to $30.3 million at the end of fiscal 1996. The decrease resulted primarily
from reduced sales volume in fiscal 1997. Days sales outstanding in accounts
receivable were 59 days at the end of the current fiscal year which is a
slight decline of 4 days or 7 percent from the end of fiscal 1996.
Net inventory at September 30, 1997 totaled $26.7 million compared to $10.5
million at the end of fiscal 1996. The increase resulted primarily from
investments to support introduction of new products such as SparQ and Quest.
Inventory turnover for the current fiscal year was 3 as compared to a turnover
of 11 for fiscal 1996.
On January 17, 1997, a domestic line of credit was negotiated with a
financial institution, continuing the existing terms and extending the line
through March 31, 1998. The credit line provides for a limit on borrowings of
$30.0 million based on a combination of 80 percent of eligible accounts
receivable balances and 40 percent of eligible finished goods inventory
balances. Borrowings under the agreement bear interest based on the highest
"LIBOR" (London Interbank Offered Rate) rate during the month plus 4.825
percent and are subject to the
18
<PAGE>
higher of a minimum interest rate of 8% per annum or $10,000 per month,
regardless of borrowings. The interest rate as of September 30, 1997 was 10.75
percent. The agreement also places limitations on additional borrowings,
payment of dividends and is secured by substantially all the Company's assets.
The balance borrowed at September 30, 1997 under the domestic line of credit
was $17.6 million as compared to $14.7 million at the end of fiscal 1996.
Management believes its relations with the financial institution are good, The
Company has received indication from its Banks that they intend to renew the
line of credit upon expiration of the existing credit agreement. The terms and
financial covenants of the renewed line of credit remain to be determined and
negotiated. Management believes it will be successful in renewing the line of
credit. Failure to renew the line of credit will have a material adverse
effect on the Company's liquidity.
In fiscal 1996, the Company entered into a revolving banking facility with a
bank in Penang, Malaysia expiring in March, 1998. The banking facility
consists of line of credit for 17.5 RM (Malaysian Ringitts-- approximately $7
million) and a term loan for 12.5 RM (approximately $5 million). The bank
facility is secured by the production facility, equipment inventory and
eligible accounts receivable in Malaysia and a corporate guarantee from the
parent company of SyQuest Technology Sdn Bhd (M), SyQuest Technology, Inc.
Borrowings under the facility bear interest based upon 1 percent over the
bank's base lending rate while the short-term borrowings bear interst at
varying rates and become due every 180 days. The interest rate at September
30, 1997 was 8.85 percent. The borrowings outstanding under the bank facility
at September 30, 1997 was $5.4 million (17.5 million RM) as compared to $8.1
million (26.2 million RM). Borrowings are denominated in Malaysian Ringitts
and, as such, are subject to foreign currency fluctuations against the US
dollar. During the current fiscal year the Malaysian Ringitt weakened against
the US dollar resulting in foreign currency gains of approximately $0.65
million. There can be no assurance that this trend will continue and the
Company does not currently hedge foreign currency exposures. Management
believes its relations with the bank are good. Failure to renew the bank
facility would have a material adverse effect on the Company's liquidity.
During the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, approximately $74.1 million
of cash was used for operating activities and approximately $6 million of cash
was used for capital expenditures. Management believes, based upon the
additional $36.0 million cash raised in the first quarter of fiscal 1998,
anticipated extension of its bank credit lines and available cash balances, it
has sufficient cash resources to fund operation through the end of fiscal
1998. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in
achieving its internal financial plan. The Company may need additional funds
for promoting new products and working capital required to support increased
sales and support the required investments in accounts receivable and
inventory. Management's financial plans for fiscal 1998 anticipate raising
additional equity capital primarily through exercise of currently outstanding
30 million warrants issued in conjunction with previously completed financial
transactions. If these outstanding warrants were to be exercised the Company
would receive cash proceeds of approximately $90 million, however, the
outstanding warrants do not include any demand or call provisions. Management
may have to entice existing warrant holders to exercise their warrants by
offering discounts to the contractual exercise price and/or issuing exchange
warrants at market or negotiated discount exercise prices. Management believes
it has sources of equity capital beyond the exercise of currently outstanding
warrants through issuance of additional convertible preferred stock or
issuance of a debt instrument such as a convertible debenture. There can be no
assurance, however, that such financing would be available when needed, if at
all, or on favorable terms and conditions. If results of operations for fiscal
1998 do not meet management's expectations, or additional capital is not
available, management believes it has the ability to reduce certain
expenditures so as not to require additional capital. The precise amount and
timing of the funding needs cannot be determined accurately at this time, and
will depend on a number of factors, including the market demand for the
Company's products, the quality of product development efforts, availability
of critical components, management of working capital, and continuation of
normal payment terms and conditions for purchase of materials and services.
19
<PAGE>
FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
Sustained Losses; Need for Additional Financing; Future Capital Needs
The Company has accumulated losses during fiscal years ended September 30,
1995, 1996, and 1997 totaling approximately $220 million. There can be no
assurances that the Company will cease incurring losses despite new product
introductions, as there can be no assurances that the Company's products will
be accepted in the marketplace. Continued losses would result in liquidity and
cash flow problems and could affect product delivery efforts. Further
sustained losses will necessitate future additional financings that if raised
through the issuance of equity securities, will reduce the percentage
ownership of the stockholders of the Company. Existing stockholders may
experience additional dilution, and securities issued in conjunction with new
financings may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of
holders of the Company's Common Stock. There can be no assurance, however,
that additional financing will be available when needed, if at all, or on
favorable terms.
The inability to raise additional financings when needed and continued
losses could impact the Company's ability to maintain its listing on the
Nasdaq National Market in the future. Should the Company fail to meet such
listing standards, it may be delisted from the Nasdaq Stock Market. Trading,
if any, in the listed securities would thereafter be conducted on the
Electronic Bulletin Board or the National Quotation Bureau's "pink sheets." As
a result, should delisting occur, an investor may find it difficult to dispose
of, or to obtain accurate quotations of the price of, the Company's
securities. This would likely have a material and adverse effect on the market
price of the Company's Common Stock and on the Company's ability to raise
additional capital. There can be no assurances that the Company would be
successful in securing additional financings which could place the Company at
risk of losing its Nasdaq listing.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES, WARRANTS AND OPTIONS; POTENTIAL DILUTION AND ADVERSE
IMPACT ON ADDITIONAL FINANCING
As of December 10, 1997, the Company had outstanding options and warrants to
purchase approximately 80,000,000 shares of Common Stock, at a weighted
average exercise price of $2.755 per share. The exact number of shares of
Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Series 4 Preferred Stock and the
Series 5 Preferred Stock (collectively, the "Preferred Stock") cannot be
estimated with certainty because, generally, such issuances of Common Stock
will vary inversely with the market price of the Common Stock at the time of
such conversion, and there is no cap on the number of shares of Common Stock
that may be issuable. The number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon
conversion of the Preferred Stock is also subject to various adjustments to
prevent dilution resulting from stock splits, stock dividends or similar
transactions. Further, the Company may, at its election, choose to issue
additional shares of Series 4 Preferred Stock in lieu of cash dividends due to
the holders of the Series 4 Preferred Stock.
In addition, on November 13, 1996, SyQuest sold to an investor 1,500,000
shares of Common Stock that became freely tradeable, subject to compliance
with applicable securities laws, on approximately February 12, 1997. As part
of this same transaction, the Company issued a warrant that became exercisable
for 1,875,000 shares of Common Stock.
To the extent that such options and warrants are exercised, shares of Common
Stock or Series 4 Preferred Stock are issued in lieu of cash dividends or
convertible securities are converted, substantial dilution of the interests of
the Company's stockholders is likely to result and the market price of the
Common Stock may be materially adversely affected. Such dilution will be
greater if the future market price of the Common Stock decreases as the number
of conversion shares to be issued will increase. For the life of such
warrants, options and convertible securities the holders will have the
opportunity to profit from a rise in the price of the underlying securities.
The existence of such warrants, options and convertible securities is likely
to affect materially and adversely the terms on which the Company can obtain
additional financing, and the holders of such warrants, options and
convertible securities can be expected to exercise them at a time when the
Company would otherwise, in all likelihood, be able to obtain additional
capital by an offering of its unissued capital stock on terms more favorable
to the Company than those provided by such warrants, options and convertible
securities. See management's discussion and analysis at Liquidity and Capital
resources.
20
<PAGE>
The Company has filed Registration Statements on Form S-8 under the Act to
register shares of Common Stock subject to stock options and to the Company's
employee stock purchase plan that will permit the resale of such shares,
subject to Rule 144 volume limitations applicable to affiliates of the Company
and vesting restrictions. The Company has also registered the Common Stock
issuable upon exercise of the warrants and conversion of the convertible
securities pursuant to a prospectus included in Registration Statement Nos.
333-7369 and 333-17119 and 333-28225. Such registered shares can be sold
without any holding period or sales volume limitations.
UNCERTAINTY OF MARKET ACCEPTANCE OF PRODUCTS
The Company's future success will depend upon market acceptance of its new
products and upon the Company's ability to establish its new products as
industry standards. In December 1996, the Company began shipping its SyJet 1.5
Gigabyte Removable Cartridge Hard Drive (SyJet) product line. While the
Company believes that the SyJet product line has been favorably received by
the marketplace, there can be no assurance that the level of acceptance will
continue or grow. Through March 31, 1997, SyJet production was constrained by
industry-wide shortages of critical components and other production
shortfalls. On November 3, 1997, the Company announced its SparQ 1.0 Gigabyte
Removable Cartridge Hard Drive (SparQ) product line. The Company anticipates
first customer shipments to occur in November, 1997. The initial acceptance of
the market place for SparQ has been favorable, however, there can be no
assurance that the level of acceptance will continue to grow. On November 10,
1997, the Company announced its Quest 4.7 Gigabyte Removable Cartridge Hard
Drive (Quest) product line. The initial acceptance of the marketplace for
Quest has been favorable, however, there can be no assurance that the level of
acceptance will continue to grow.
While the Company continues its sales and marketing campaigns to
successfully launch these new products there can be no assurance that they
will continue to be accepted in the marketplace. Further, the Company
continues its efforts to increase its manufacturing output for these new
products to meet the sales and projected sales demand and there can be no
assurances that the Company will be successful in manufacturing the required
unit volumes.
SyQuest removable-cartridge hard drive technology is different from the most
widely used data storage devices today (hard disk drives, floppy disk drives
and CD-ROM drives). Other types of read/writable data storage devices have
achieved widespread market acceptance in recent years and there can be no
assurance that the Company's new products will achieve the same market
acceptance. Whether the Company's new products will achieve significant market
acceptance will depend upon a number of factors, including the price,
performance and other characteristics of competing solutions introduced by
other vendors, the timing of the introduction of such products, and the
success of the Company in establishing OEM arrangements for the Company's new
products. See "Risk Factors--Competition" and "--Shortages of Critical
Components; Absence of Supply Contracts; Supplier Workouts." There can be no
assurance that the Company will be successful in achieving market acceptance.
In addition, the two formats of removable media storage which have gained
widespread market acceptance to date--floppy disk drives and CD-ROM drives--
are both used by software manufacturers as a means of software distribution.
While the Company's products are also used for some software distribution,
there can be no assurances that software distribution on the Company's will
continue. The failure of the Company's new products to achieve widespread
commercial acceptance would have a material adverse effect on the Company's
financial results and business.
CONTINUED SALES OF THE EZ FLYER 230 AND LEGACY PRODUCTS
While the Company believes that the EZ Flyer 230 will continue to be a
contributor to the Company's revenue in the near future, there can be no
assurances, in the face of increased competition and higher capacity
solutions, that the demand for the EZ Flyer 230 will continue at current
levels.
The Company has a group of "legacy" products that represent earlier
generations of removable cartridge hard drive products. These legacy products
have generally been replaced by new generation products with greater
performance and capacity. The Company continues to sell its legacy products to
support installed systems still in use in the marketplace. There can be no
assurances that sales of legacy products will continue.
21
<PAGE>
SHORTAGES OF CRITICAL COMPONENTS; ABSENCE OF SUPPLY CONTRACTS; SUPPLIER
WORKOUTS
Many components incorporated in, or used in the manufacture of, the
Company's products are currently only available from sole source suppliers.
During the 1996 fiscal year and fiscal 1997, the Company experienced
disruption in its supply of certain components for a number of reasons
including, industry wide shortages and the shortage of cash to pay suppliers.
During fiscal 1996, component shortages due to limited cash availability
affected the Company's ability to produce EZ Flyer 230 and SyJet products and
limited the Company's ability to implement certain improvement plans.
Moreover, the Company may continue from time to time to experience difficulty
in the future in obtaining a sufficient supply of many key components due to
the shortage of cash to pay suppliers and other reasons. A disruption in the
supply of key components would have had a material adverse affect on the
Company's ability to generate sales and the ability to successfully produce
product in volumes necessary to meet demand. If such disruptions are repeated,
the Company's ability to generate sales and increase revenues will be
materially adversely effected.
On July 15, 1996, the Company issued a Debenture to one of its suppliers
pursuant to which up to 400,000 shares of Common Stock could be issued to such
supplier at a conversion price of $6.9375 per share. Subsequently, the Company
negotiated with other suppliers to extend the payment dates on amounts owed.
The Company conducted similar negotiations with other suppliers, converting a
total of approximately $43.1 million of accounts payable and other obligations
to those suppliers, to notes payable to reflect extended repayment terms. In
September and October 1996, and February, March and April 1997, the Company
received certain of those notes payable in exchange for an aggregate of
8,047,269 shares of Common Stock. As a result of the Company's completion of
recent financing transactions and other efforts by management to improve
SyQuest's financial condition, most of the Company suppliers have transitioned
from doing business with the Company on a C.O.D. basis and are selling to the
Company under more standard commercial terms. However, if the Company were to
experience a shortage of cash as noted above, many of its key suppliers may
again require C.O.D. payments which would place a significant demand on the
Company's available cash resources that may limit its financial flexibility
and ability to meet market demand for its products.
The Company purchases all of its sole and limited source components and
equipment pursuant to purchase orders placed from time to time, and has no
guaranteed supply arrangements. The inability to obtain sufficient components
and equipment, to obtain or develop alternative sources of supply at
competitive prices and quality, or to avoid manufacturing delays could prevent
the Company from producing sufficient quantities of its products to satisfy
market demand, result in delays in product shipments, increase the Company's
material or manufacturing costs, or cause an imbalance in the inventory level
of certain components. Moreover, difficulties in obtaining sufficient
components may cause the Company to modify the design of its products to use a
more readily available component, and such design modifications may result in
increased costs and product performance problems. Any or all of these problems
could in turn result in the loss of customers, provide an opportunity for
competing products to achieve market acceptance and otherwise adversely affect
the Company's business and financial results.
COMPETITION
The data storage industry is highly competitive. The Company believes that
its products compete most directly with other removable-media data storage
devices, such as disk drives offered by Iomega Corporation and magneto optical
disk drives. Although the Company believes that its products offer performance
and certain other advantages over most other removable-media storage devices
available today, the Company believes that the price/performance levels of
existing removable-media products will improve and that other companies will
introduce new removable-media storage devices. Accordingly, the Company
believes its products will face increasingly intense competition. In
particular, a consortium comprising Compaq Computer, 3M, OR Technology and
Matsushita-Kotobuki Electronics Industries Ltd. has announced and is selling
the LS120, a high capacity floptical drive that is compatible with
conventional floppy disks. Each of Mitsubishi Electric Corp. and Mitsumi has
also announced that it plans to manufacture a high capacity, floppy drive that
is downward compatible with existing floppy diskettes. Additionally, Avastor,
Nomai and Caleb have products that compete with SyQuest
22
<PAGE>
products. Sony Corporation and Fuji Photo Film Co. have also recently
announced a jointly developed "HiFD" 3.5 floppy disk system with a 200
Megabyte storage capacity. If successfully marketed, these drives would
compete with the Company's EZ Flyer 230 products. The Iomega Zip drive, a high
capacity floppy disk drive, is also a competitor to EZ Flyer 230. The JAZ and
JAZ II drives are removable hard drives and compete directly with SyQuest's
products. In addition, to the extent that SyQuest drives are used for
incremental primary storage capacity, they also compete with conventional hard
disk drives. In addition, the leading suppliers of conventional hard disk
drives could at any time determine to enter the removable-media storage
market.
As new and competing removable-media storage solutions are introduced, it is
possible that the first such solution to achieve a significant market presence
will emerge as an industry standard and achieve a dominant market position. If
such is the case, there can be no assurance that the Company's products would
achieve significant market acceptance, particularly given the Company's size
and market position relative to its competitors.
TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE AND NEW PRODUCTS
The Company operates in an industry that is subject both to rapid
technological change and rapid change in consumer demands. For example, over
the last 10 years the typical hard disk drive included in a new personal
computer has increased in capacity from approximately 40 megabytes (Mbs) to 3
gigabytes (GB) or more, while the market price per megabyte of a hard disk
drive has dramatically decreased. The Company's future success will depend in
significant part on its ability continually to develop and introduce, in a
timely manner, new removable cartridge hard drive products with improved
features, and to develop and manufacture those new products within a cost
structure that enables the Company to sell such products at lower prices than
those of comparable products today. In addition, the Company depends on
technological developments from other vendors for the components in its
products (such as heads, semiconductor devices and media). The Company's
products are targeted for sale into the Company's traditional customer base in
the desktop publishing, pre-press and service bureau segments, computer, audio
and video OEMs, retail, as well as to a broad array of users in the SOHO
(Small Office/Home Office) market segment. There can be no assurance that the
Company will be successful in developing, manufacturing and marketing cost
effective products that meet both the performance and price demands of the
data storage market.
DEPENDENCE ON STRATEGIC MARKETING ALLIANCES
The Company's business strategy will be enhanced in significant part by
establishing successful strategic alliances with a variety of key companies
within the computer, audio and video industries. Among the types of alliances
contemplated by the Company's business strategy are: OEM arrangements with
personal computer, audio and video product manufacturers that will include
SyQuest products as a standard feature or factory-installed option in their
personal computers; reseller arrangements (including private and co-branding
arrangements) with major vendors of computer products covering the resale of
the Company's products by such companies; and licensing arrangements under
which the Company grants certain computer manufacturers on a royalty-bearing
basis the right to manufacture and sell its drives or media. Moreover, the
Company believes that establishing strategic alliances (especially OEM
arrangements) is important to the success of its business, and there can be no
assurance that the Company will be successful in doing so. In addition, the
Company's strategic alliances are generally not covered by binding contracts
and may be subject to unilateral termination by the Company's strategic
partners, and may also require the Company to share control over its
manufacturing and marketing programs and technologies.
RELIANCE ON MANUFACTURING RELATIONSHIPS; NOMAI LAWSUITS
The Company plans to continue to use independent parties such as Nomai, S.A.
("Nomai") to manufacture for the Company a portion of the Company's
components. The Company currently has manufacturing relationships for
cartridges and others for manufacture and subassembly of components.
23
<PAGE>
In January of 1997, the Company filed a suit against Nomai and certain other
defendants in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
California alleging, among other things, patent infringement and violation of
trademark and unfair competition laws. During April through June 1997, the
Nomai Parties filed certain cross-complaints against the Company alleging,
among other things, breach of contract and violations of the unfair
competition laws. The Company and the Nomai parties have entered into a
Settlement Agreement (the "Settlement Agreement") and a stipulation to dismiss
the Company's Complaint and the Nomai Parties' Cross-Complaint with prejudice
has been filed. The Nomai Action remains pending against other defendants.
In September 1996, the Company and Legend Group ("Legend"), the largest
computer systems manufacturer and distributor in the People's Republic of
China, announced an intention to form a joint venture company for the
manufacture and distribution of the Company's removable cartridge hard drives
and products in China and to make Legend the exclusive distributor of the
Company's products in the developing Chinese market. The Company would provide
the proposed joint venture company with training and manufacturing know-how to
insure that the joint venture has the requisite skills to manufacture the
Company's removable cartridge hard drives and products. Legend and the Company
would contribute the capital required for the joint venture. In December 1996,
the Company and Legend announced a distribution agreement whereby Legend has
become the exclusive distributor of the Company's products in the developing
Chinese market.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in
establishing the joint venture, or that the Company will successfully
establish additional relationships in the future or successfully manage such
manufacturing relationships. The Company's manufacturing relationships are
generally not covered by binding contracts and may be subject to unilateral
termination by the Company's manufacturing partners. Moreover, there can be no
assurance that third-party manufacturers will be willing or able to meet the
Company's quantity or quality requirements for manufactured products.
QUARTERLY FLUCTUATIONS IN OPERATING RESULTS
The Company has experienced and in the future may continue to experience
significant fluctuations in its quarterly operating results. Factors such as
price reductions, the introduction and market acceptance of new products,
product returns, the availability of critical components have had an impact on
the Company's products and have contributed to this quarterly variability.
Moreover, the Company's expense levels are based in part on expectations of
future sales levels, and a shortfall in expected sales could therefore result
in a disproportionate decrease in the Company's results of operations. As a
result of these and other factors, it is likely that the Company's operating
results in some future period will be below the expectations of investors,
which would be likely to result in a significant reduction in the market price
of the Common Stock.
The revenue, operating loss and loss per share for the four quarters of the
fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 are presented below to illustrate the
quarterly fluctuations during the most recent fiscal year. The loss per share
has been recalculated in order to be presented on a consistent basis with the
re-statement discussed in footnote Number 10 & the Consolidated Financial
Statements. The accounting presentation had no impact on the reported
operating loss.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(1) Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
--- ------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue................................. $ 48.3 $ 16.8 $ 31.7 $ 25.9
Net Loss................................ $ (6.8) $ (33.7) $ (10.7) $ (17.5)
Basic and Diluted Loss Per Share........ $ (0.86) $ (1.31) $ (.31) $ (.33)
Weighted average shares................. 14,673 26,206 44,054 53,806
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) table is presented in millions, except per share amounts.
DEPENDENCE ON PROPRIETARY TECHNOLOGY; INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION
The Company's success depends heavily on the establishment and maintenance
of proprietary technologies. The Company relies on a combination of patent,
copyright and trade secret law to protect the technology in its
24
<PAGE>
drives and cartridges. The Company holds numerous U.S. and foreign patent
applications relating to its drives and hard disk cartridges. Many of these
patents, however, do not pertain to the Company's recent product generations,
and there can be no assurance that additional patents will issue in the
future. There can be no assurance that the steps taken by the Company to
protect its technology will be adequate to prevent misappropriation of its
technology by third parties, or that third parties will not be able
independently to develop similar technology. In particular, the Company's
sales would be materially adversely affected if any unlicensed parties develop
removable cartridges compatible with the Company's disk drives.
On December 3, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a lawsuit in the United
States District Court in and for the Northern District of California against
the Company. The lawsuit alleges that the Company's use of the trademark SparQ
in connection with its recently introduced SparQ removable cartridge hard
drive product constitutes an infringement of the SPARC trademark owned by
SPARC International, Inc. The complaint requests money damages and a
preliminary and permanent injunction enjoining the Company from further
infringement. On December 19, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a motion
seeking a preliminary injunction enjoining the Company from using the SparQ
trademark on its removable cartridge hard drive products and requesting a
hearing on January 26, 1998. The Company filed a motion requesting a later
hearing date, and a hearing date has been scheduled for March 23, 1998. The
Company believes that it does not infringe any valid trademarks of SPARC
International, Inc. and intends to defend itself vigorously against this
action.
On July 29, 1997, Iomega Corporation ("Iomega") initiated an action for
patent and trademark infringement against SyQuest in the United States
District Court for the District of Delaware. The suit alleges that SyQuest's
SyJet and EZFlyer 230 products infringe United States Utility Patent No.
5,644,444, entitled "Read/Write Protect Scheme for a Disk Cartridge and
Drive", and that the cartridges sold by SyQuest for use with its SyJet and
EZFlyer 230 products infringe United States Design Patent No. Des. 378,518,
entitled "Computer Storage Disk Cartridge." The suit further alleges that
SyQuest has infringed Iomega's claimed "Jet" trademark and engaged in unfair
competition through the use of the "SyJet" name for one of it products. Iomega
seeks a judgment of infringement, monetary damages, injunctive relief,
disgorgement of profits, treble actual damages on the disputed products, and
attorneys' fees. Iomega also seeks exemplary damages and attorneys' fees based
on SyQuest's alleged willful infringement of Iomega's claimed trademark.
SyQuest has filed an answer and counterclaim denying infringement and
requesting a declaratory judgment that the patents-in-suit are invalid and not
infringed. The case is in the early stages of discovery. In interrogatory
responses served December 3, 1997, Iomega asserted that SyQuest's recently
introduced SparQ product and not yet introduced Quest product infringe
Iomega's design patent and that it is investigating whether it believes that
the SparQ or Quest products infringe Iomega's utility patent. The Court has
set a trial date of January 11, 1999. SyQuest believes it has meritorious
defenses to Iomega's allegations and intends to defend the case vigorously.
On or about June 10, 1997, the Company initiated litigation against
Castlewood Systems, Inc. and eleven (11) former Company employees in Santa
Clara Superior Court, No. 766757 asserting ten (10) causes of action,
including claims for misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition,
and breach of fiduciary duty. On or about July 16, 1997, Castlewood filed a
Cross-Complaint against the Company, alleging three (3) causes of action
(interference with prospective economic advantage; unfair competition; trade
libel). The Company seeks money damages and an injunction from engaging in
such conduct. Since that time, the parties have engaged exclusively in
hearings before Thomas E. Schatzel, Esq., the Court-appointed discovery
referee, to finalize the Company's identification of trade secrets in
accordance with the requirements of the California Code of Civil Procedure (S)
2019 (d). The Company's Seconded Amended Identification of Trade Secrets was
deemed acceptable by the Discovery Referee on October 20, 1997. Discovery has
only recently begun, and there can be no assurance as to what impact this
litigation may have on the Company.
In 1996, the Company filed suit against Nomai, S.A. (Nomai) and Maxell in
France for copyright and patent infringement. The Company initiated an
arbitration proceeding against Nomai seeking payment of outstanding royalties
of approximately $1 million. On January 27, 1997, the Company filed a
Complaint in the United States District Court in Northern District of
California against Nomai, S.A., Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin, Herve Frouin,
Electronique d2, and La Cie Ltd., entitled SyQuest Technology, Inc. v. Nomai,
S.A. et al. (Case No. C97-0271
25
<PAGE>
FMS) (the "Nomai Action") alleging patent and trademark infringement,
misrepresentation, breach of contract and other claims. During April through
June 1997, Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin and Herve Frouin (collectively the "Nomai
Parties") filed certain Cross-Complaints against the Company. The parties have
engaged in discussions concerning the terms of a potential resolution to the
Nomai Action. The Company and the Nomai Parties have resolved the claims
alleged in the Nomai action on December 16, 1997, pursuant to a Settlement
Agreement, ("Settlement Agreement"). In accordance with the Settlement
Agreement a stipulation to dismiss the Company's complaint and the Nomai's
Parties' cross-complaint with prejudice was filed. The Nomai Action remains
pending against defendants Electronique d2 and La Cie Ltd.
On, March 7, 1997, RKS Design, Inc. filed suit against the Company alleging
that the Company failed to pay $48,394.21 of interest charges on fees charged
for design services rendered with respect to its EZ Flyer and SyJet products.
The suit requests damages including profits associated with these products,
interest and attorneys' fees. The Company has filed a counterclaim asserting,
inter alia, that no amount is owing to RKS, and that the Company is entitled
to a refund of certain overpayments made to RKS. The Company does not believe
that this claim will have a material adverse affect on the Company or its
financial position or its results of operations.
Periodically, the Company is made aware that technology used by the Company
in the manufacture of some or all of its products may infringe on product or
process technology rights held by others. Resolution of whether the Company's
manufacture of products has infringed on valid rights held by others could
have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results
of operations, and may require material changes in production processes and
products. Several companies have individually contacted the Company concerning
its alleged use of intellectual property belonging to them. Companies that
have contacted the Company include one company that has alleged that the
Company's products infringe six U.S. patents. It is the Company's belief that
the claims are without merit or that the infringement claims relate to
component parts purchased from vendors. The Company also believes that in the
event this company prevailed on its claims, the Company would be indemnified
by its vendors for any liability arising from the alleged infringements and
that this matter will not have a material adverse effect upon its financial
condition or results of operations. Another company has notified the Company
that it believes a number of the Company's removable cartridge hard drives
products infringe several of its patents relating to the use of spin motors in
disc drives. The Company believes that its removable cartridge hard drive
products do not infringe the claims of these patents and that some or all of
the asserted patents are invalid.
Patent and similar litigation frequently is complex and expensive and its
outcome can be difficult to predict. There can be no assurance that the
Company will prevail in any proceedings that have been or may be commenced
against the Company. In addition, certain technology used in the Company's
products is licensed from third parties. The termination of any such license
arrangements could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business
and financial results.
INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS
International sales generated a significant portion of the Company's
revenues in fiscal years 1995, 1996 and 1997, and the Company expects
international sales to continue to constitute a significant percentage of its
total sales in the future. The international portion of the Company's business
is subject to a number of inherent risks, including difficulties in building
and managing foreign operations and foreign reseller networks, the differing
product needs of foreign customers, fluctuations in the value of foreign
currencies, import-export duties and quotas, and regulatory, economic or
political changes. Moreover, the Company relies on foreign companies for the
supply of certain critical components and is increasingly relying on foreign
companies for the manufacture of certain of its products, and these
relationships may be subject to some of the same risks affecting its
international sales. There can be no assurance that these factors will not
materially and adversely affect the Company's international sales and its
overall business and financial performance.
The Company's international sales are predominantly denominated in U.S.
dollars. Accordingly, a significant decrease in the valuation of the U.S.
dollar and the resultant increase in the price of the Company's foreign
currency priced products could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
sales.
26
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT CHANGES; DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL
The Company's success will depend in large part upon the capabilities of the
members of the new management team, most of whom have been with the Company
for less than 18 months. The inability of such individuals to become familiar
with the widespread operations of the Company and its subsidiaries and turn
around the financial situation of the Company could have a material adverse
effect on the Company. The Company's success will also depend in significant
part upon its ability to attract and retain highly-skilled management and
other personnel. Competition for such personnel in the computer industry is
intense, and the Company has from time to time experienced difficulty in
finding sufficient numbers of qualified professional and production personnel.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in attracting
and retaining the quantity and quality of personnel that it needs.
VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE; ABSENCE OF DIVIDENDS
The market prices for shares of high technology companies including the
securities of SyQuest have been volatile. The Company's Common Stock has in
the past experienced substantial levels of short selling, which has depressed
the market price, and increased the volatility of the market price, of the
Company's Common Stock. Factors such as announcements of technological
innovations or new products by the Company or its competitors, variations in
the Company's quarterly operating results, continued high levels of short
selling of the Common Stock, or general economic or stock market conditions
unrelated to the Company's operating performance may have material adverse
effects on the market price of the Common Stock. In the past, following
periods of volatility in the market price of a company's securities,
securities class action litigation has often been instituted against such a
company. Such litigation, can result and has resulted in substantial costs and
a diversion of management attention and resources. See "Risk Factors--Class
Action and Shareholder Derivative Lawsuits."
In addition, the Company believes that electronic bulletin board postings
regarding the Company on America Online and other similar services, certain of
which have in the past contained false information about Company developments,
have in the past and may in the future contribute to volatility in the market
price of the Common Stock. Any information concerning the Company, including
projections of future operating results, appearing in such on-line bulletin
boards or otherwise emanating from a source other than the Company should not
be relied upon as having been supplied or endorsed by the Company.
The Company has not paid any cash dividends since its inception, is
restricted from paying cash dividends pursuant to a credit agreement with its
lender, and it does not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable
future.
CERTAIN MARKETING AND SALES RISKS
As is common practice in its industry, the Company's arrangements with its
customers generally allow customers, in the event of a price decrease, credit
equal to the difference between the price originally paid and the new
decreased price on units in the customers' inventories on the date of the
price decrease. When a price decrease is anticipated, the Company establishes
reserves for amounts it estimates will be reimbursed to qualifying customers.
There can be no assurance that these reserves will be sufficient or that any
future returns or price protection charges will not have material adverse
effects on the Company's results of operations, particularly because future
results will depend heavily on recently introduced products for which the
Company has little or no operating history. In addition, customers generally
have stock rotation rights permitting them to return slower-moving products in
inventory within specified time periods in return for compensating orders of
other products. Any buildup of inventory at the Company or in its distribution
channels that does not sell through to end users could have material adverse
effects on the Company's operating results and financial condition.
As is typical in the industry, from time to time the Company experiences
product defects and product returns especially during periods of transition to
new products. There can be no assurance that the Company will not experience
quality or reliability problems in the future that have material adverse
effects on the Company's business and financial results.
27
<PAGE>
The Company markets its products primarily through computer product
distributors and retailers. Distribution channels for personal computers and
accessories have been characterized by rapid change, including consolidation
and financial difficulties of distributors. The loss or ineffectiveness of any
of the Company's major distributors could have a material adverse effect on
the Company's results of operations. In addition, since the Company grants
credit to its customers, a substantial portion of outstanding accounts
receivable are due from computer product distributors and certain large
retailers. At September 30, 1997, the customers with the ten highest accounts
receivable balances totaled $15.2 million, or 60%, of gross accounts
receivable at that date. The Company has no reason to believe these receivable
balances are uncollectible, but if any one or a group of these customers'
receivable balances should be deemed uncollectible, it would have a material
adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.
EFFECT OF ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS
The Company's Board of Directors has the authority to issue up to 4,000,000
shares of preferred stock and to determine the price, rights, preferences and
privileges of those shares, which, under certain circumstances, could be
issued without any further vote or action by the Company's stockholders. To
date, an aggregate of 410,000 shares of preferred stock have been issued:
20,000 shares of 7% Cumulative Preferred Stock; 5,500 shares of Convertible
Preferred Stock, 24,500 shares of Series 2 Preferred Stock; 50,000 shares of
Series 3 Preferred Stock, 280,000 shares of Series 4 Preferred Stock and
30,000 shares of the Series 5 Preferred Stock, all of which, except for the
Series 4 Preferred Stock and Series 5 Preferred Stock, have been converted.
The rights of the holders of Common Stock will be subject to, and may be
adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of these preferred shares and
any preferred stock that may be issued in the future. Such issuance, while
providing desirable flexibility in connection with possible financings and
acquisitions and other corporate purposes, could make it more difficult for a
third party to acquire a majority of the outstanding voting stock of the
Company. In addition, preferred stock may have other rights, including
economic rights, senior to the Common Stock, and, as a result, the issuance
thereof could have a material adverse effect on the market value of the Common
Stock. The Company is also subject to the anti-takeover provisions of Section
203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which prohibit the Company from
engaging in a "business combination" with an "interested stockholder" for a
period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person
first becomes an "interested stockholder," unless the business combination is
approved in a prescribed manner. The application of Section 203 could also
have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of the Company.
SECURITIES CLASS LITIGATION AND DERIVATIVE LITIGATION
The Company has been named as a defendant in four putative class action
lawsuits. Two of the actions, Ravens, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed April
2, 1996) and Belleza, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed May 24, 1996) have been
brought in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
California and have been assigned to the Honorable Vaughn Walker
(collectively, the "Federal Lawsuit"). Certain current and former officers and
directors also have been named as defendants in the Federal Lawsuit. The
plaintiffs in the Federal Lawsuit purport to represent a class of all persons
who purchased the Company's Common Stock between October 21, 1994 and February
1, 1996. The Federal Lawsuit alleges that the defendants violated the federal
securities laws through certain alleged material misrepresentations and
omissions. In general, the litigation alleges insider trading by certain
officers and directors of the Company, failures to disclose on a timely basis
contamination problems in the SQ3270 drive, failure to disclose on a timely
basis that the EZ135 drive could not be sold profitably given the cost of
production, and the failure of certain of the Company's financial statements
to reflect properly the value of inventory relating to those two drives. In
January 1997, the Court denied the motion of certain plaintiffs to be
appointed lead plaintiffs under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995 (the "Reform Act") on the ground, inter alia, that the plaintiffs'
published notice to the class did not constitute adequate notice of the
litigation under the Reform Act. In July 1997, the Court denied a motion for
reconsideration of its prior order and directed the plaintiffs to issue a
revised notice and/or amend their complaint by August 22, 1997, or be subject
to a motion to dismiss or for summary judgement. Plaintiffs have informed the
Court that they elect to stand on the existing notice and complaint.
28
<PAGE>
The third suit is a purported class action entitled Gary S. Kaufman v.
SyQuest Technology Inc., et al. was filed on March 25, 1996, in the Superior
Court of the State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Kaufman
Lawsuit"). The fourth purported class action, entitled Ravens, et al. v.
Iftikar, et al., was filed on October 11, 1996, in the Superior Court of the
State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Ravens Lawsuit"). The
Kaufman Lawsuit and the Ravens Lawsuit (collectively the "State Court
Lawsuit") have been consolidated and a Consolidated Amended Complaint was
filed on December 6, 1996. The allegations are essentially the same as in the
Federal Lawsuit and seek unspecified damages and punitive damages on behalf of
all persons who purchased the Company's Common Stock from October 21, 1994 and
February 1, 1996. Pursuant to a Stipulation and Order entered on August 6,
1997, the State Court Lawsuit has been referred to mediation before a retired
federal judge.
On May 14, 1996, the Company was served with a shareholder derivative action
filed in Alameda County, California, Superior Court entitled John Nitti, et
al. v. Syed Iftikar, et al (the "Derivative Lawsuit"). On July 22, 1996,
plaintiffs filed an amended complaint. The action seeks to recover unspecified
damages and punitive damages on behalf of the Company from current and former
officers and directors of the Company for alleged breach of fiduciary duty,
unjust enrichment and waste of corporate assets. The Company is a nominal
defendant in the action. The complaint alleges that the officers and directors
issued false and misleading information and sold shares of the Company's stock
at artificially inflated prices. The allegations are essentially the same as
those in the putative class actions. Counsel for plaintiffs in the Derivative
Lawsuit are participating in the mediation ordered for the State Court Lawsuit
described above.
The Company intends to defend the Federal Lawsuit, the State Court Lawsuit
and the Derivative Lawsuit vigorously, but there can be no assurance as to
what financial effect this litigation may have on the Company. If there is an
adverse result, the Company does not expect any particular product line to be
effected as the plaintiffs seek monetary, rather than injunctive relief.
Nevertheless, a materially unfavorable outcome could have an adverse effect on
the Company's financial condition, results of operations and cash flow. No
loss contingency has been provided for these lawsuits as the amounts of any
loss, if any, are not yet determinable or reasonably estimable.
From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation that it considers
to be in the normal course of its business. Other than as set forth in this
prospectus, the Company is not engaged in any legal proceedings as of the date
hereof which the Company expects individually or in the aggregate to have a
material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition or results of
operations.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
For the years ended September 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Report of Price Waterhouse LLP, Independent Accountants................... 30
Report of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors......................... 31
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition--September 30, 1997, and
1996..................................................................... 32
Consolidated Statement of Results of Operations--Years Ended September 30,
1997, 1996, and 1995..................................................... 33
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity--Years Ended September 30,
1997, 1996, and 1995..................................................... 34
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows--Years Ended September 30, 1997,
1996, and 1995........................................................... 35
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements................................ 37
</TABLE>
29
<PAGE>
REPORT OF PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP, INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
SyQuest Technology, Inc.
In our opinion the consolidated financial statements, listed in the index
appearing in Item 14(a)(1) and (2) on page 53 present fairly, in all material
respects, the consolidated financial position of SyQuest Technology, Inc. and
subsidiaries at September 30, 1997, and the consolidated results of their
operations and their cash flows for the year ended September 30, 1997, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These financial
statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and
schedule based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting
principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Since the date of completion of our audit of the accompanying consolidated
financial statements and initial issuance of our report thereon dated December
29, 1997, the Company, as discussed in Note 14, paragraph 3, has continued to
experience operating losses that have adversely affected the Company's
reported results of operations for the first fiscal quarter of 1998. Note 1,
paragraphs 4 through 7, describe management's plans to address these issues.
Price Waterhouse LLP
San Jose, California
December 29, 1997, except for
Note 14, paragraph 3 as to
which the date is
February 17, 1998.
30
<PAGE>
REPORT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
SyQuest Technology, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of SyQuest
Technology, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows
for each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 1996. Our audits
also included the financial statement schedule for each of the two years in
the period ended September 30, 1996 listed in the Index at Item 14(a). These
financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
Since the date of completion of our audit of the accompanying consolidated
financial statements and initial issuance of our report thereon dated December
11, 1996, the Company, as discussed in Note 1 "Basis of Presentation",
paragraph 5, has experienced operating losses and a reduction in revenues that
has adversely affected the Company's reported results of operations for the
first two fiscal quarters of 1997. Note 1 "Basis of Presentation", paragraph
5, describes management's plans to address these issues.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position
of SyQuest Technology, Inc. and subsidiaries at September 30, 1996, and the
consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the
two years in the period ended September 30, 1996, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial
statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial
statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the
information set forth therein.
/s/Ernst & Young, LLP
San Jose, California
December 11, 1996, except for Note 1, "Basis of
Presentation", paragraph 5 as to which the date is June 27, 1997
31
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30,
1997 1996
------------- -------------
(IN THOUSANDS,
EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents........................ $ 7,083 $ 3,670
Accounts receivable, net......................... 19,535 30,341
Inventories, net................................. 26,737 10,538
Prepaid expenses and deposits.................... 6,049 2,471
-------- ---------
Total current assets........................... 59,404 47,020
Net plant, property and equipment.................. 22,999 27,180
Other assets....................................... 246 981
-------- ---------
Total Assets....................................... $ 82,649 $ 75,181
======== =========
Current liabilities:
Short-term borrowings............................ $ 23,291 $ 19,268
Accounts payable................................. 14,800 23,917
Accrued liabilities.............................. 15,532 20,637
Current portion of long-term debt................ 4,345 20,549
-------- ---------
Total current liabilities...................... 57,968 84,371
Long-term debt..................................... 4,024 20,971
Other long-term liabilities........................ 959 192
Mandatory Redeemable Warrants...................... 14,085 --
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Preferred stock, $.0001 par value in 1997 and
$.001 in 1996: 4,000,000 shares authorized;
129,000 and 19,193 shares issued and outstand-
ing............................................. -- 18
Common stock, $.0001 par value in 1997 and $.001
in 1996: 120,000,000 and 60,000,000 shares
authorized; 59,887,000 and 12,312,769 shares
issued and outstanding.......................... 6 14
Additional paid in capital....................... 222,766 108,262
Treasury common stock at cost--1,225,000 shares
in 1997 and 1996................................ (12,855) (12,855)
Retained deficit................................. (204,304) (125,792)
-------- ---------
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)........... 5,613 (30,353)
======== =========
Total Liabilities and Shareholders Equity.......... $ 82,649 $ 75,181
======== =========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
32
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- -----------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenue.............................. $ 122,723 $ 200,407 $ 299,544
Cost of revenue.......................... 123,624 248,693 248,497
---------- ----------- ----------
Gross Profit (loss)...................... (901) (48,286) 51,047
Operating Expenses:
Selling, general and administrative.... 45,074 51,743 44,264
Research and development............... 17,996 25,920 23,892
Restructuring costs.................... -- 4,727 --
---------- ----------- ----------
Total operating expenses................. 63,070 82,390 68,156
Loss from operations..................... (63,971) (130,676) (17,109)
Interest income/(expense)................ (4,350) (1,037) 1,134
Other income/expense..................... -- (1,938) 468
---------- ----------- ----------
Net Loss before income taxes............. (68,321) (133,651) (15,507)
Provision for Income Taxes............. (350) (3,000) 3,721
Net Loss................................. (68,671) (136,651) (11,786)
---------- ----------- ----------
Embedded Yield on Preferred Stock........ (5,300) (5,682) --
Preferred Stock Dividend................. (1,991) -- --
Valued Assigned to Warrants.............. (2,550) -- --
---------- ----------- ----------
Net Loss applicable to common stock
holders................................. (78,512) (142,333) (11,786)
========== =========== ==========
Basic and Diluted Loss per share......... $ (2.25) $ (12.38) $ (1.07)
========== =========== ==========
Common and common equivalent shares used
in computing per share amounts.......... 34,815 11,497 11,063
========== =========== ==========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
33
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL
PREFERRED STOCK COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL TREASURY
----------------- -------------- PAID-IN- COMMON ACCUMULATED
SHARES AMOUNT SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL STOCK DEFICIT TOTAL
------- ------- ------ ------ ---------- -------- ----------- ---------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at October 1,
1994................... -- $ -- 10,825 $ 12 $ 74,161 $(11,655) $ 28,327 $ 90,845
Stock options
exercised.............. -- -- 502 1 2,932 -- -- 2,933
Shares issued under The
Employee Stock Purchase
Plan................... -- -- 97 -- 1,061 -- -- 1,061
Purchase of treasury
stock at cost.......... -- -- (100) -- -- (1,200) -- (1,200)
Income tax benefit from
stock options
exercised.............. -- -- -- -- 1,321 -- -- 1,321
Stock option
compensation........... -- -- -- -- 14 -- -- 14
Net loss................ -- -- -- -- -- -- (11,786) (11,786)
------- ------- ------ ---- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Balance at September 30,
1995................... -- -- 11,324 13 79,489 (12,855) 16,541 83,188
Stock options
exercised.............. -- -- 386 1 1,421 -- -- 1,422
Shares issued under The
Employee Stock Purchase
Plan................... -- -- 64 -- 350 -- -- 350
Issuance of preferred
stock.................. 20 19 -- -- 18,981 -- -- 19,000
Debt to equity
conversion............. -- -- 371 -- 2,338 -- -- 2,338
Conversion of preferred
stock to common stock.. (1) (1) 168 -- 1 -- -- --
Embedded yield on
preferred stock........ -- -- -- -- 5,682 -- (5,682) --
Net loss................ -- -- -- -- -- -- (136,651) (136,651)
------- ------- ------ ---- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Balance at September 30,
1996................... 19 18 12,313 14 108,262 (12,855) (125,792) (30,353)
Issuance of common
stock.................. -- -- 3,294 3 11,367 -- -- 11,370
Issue preferred stock
and warrants, net...... 380 -- -- -- 67,348 -- -- 67,348
Conversion of debt to
equity................. -- -- 7,677 8 24,813 -- -- 24,821
Conversion of preferred
stock into common
stock.................. (276) (18) 36,175 36 (18) -- -- --
Preferred dividends paid
in preferred and common
stock.................. 6 -- 428 -- 1,991 -- (1,991) --
Adjustment due to change
in par value........... -- -- -- (55) 55 -- -- --
Warrants issued for
services received...... -- -- -- -- 1,098 -- -- 1,098
Embedded yield and
warrant value on
preferred stock........ -- -- -- -- 7,850 -- (7,850) --
Net loss................ -- -- -- -- -- -- (68,671) (68,671)
------- ------- ------ ---- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Balance September 30,
1997................... 129 $ -- 59,887 $ 6 $222,766 $(12,855) $(204,304) $ 5,613
======= ======= ====== ==== ======== ======== ========= =========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
34
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30,
-----------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- --------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Operating Activities:
Net (loss).................................... $(68,671) $(136,651) $(11,786)
Adjustment to reconcile net (loss) to cash
used in operating activities:
Depreciation................................ 7,874 10,578 8,052
Deferred income taxes....................... -- 4,528 (4,227)
Write-off of fixed assets................... 2,296 6,782 99
Other....................................... 374 (84) 26
Net cash used in operating activities
Accounts receivable......................... 9,892 25,312 (8,934)
Inventories................................. (16,199) 23,675 (22,065)
Accounts payable............................ (3,216) 13,413 15,161
Accrued expenses and other liabilities...... (3,123) 2,148 16,498
Other....................................... (3,342) (405) (359)
-------- --------- --------
Net cash used in operating activities......... (74,115) (50,704) (7,535)
Investing activities:
Purchase of short-term Investments............ -- -- (3,178)
Purchase of equipment and leasehold improve-
ments........................................ (5,990) (17,820) (12,509)
Other......................................... -- (675) (799)
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments.. -- -- 4,893
-------- --------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities......... (5,990) (18,495) (11,593)
Financing activites:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and
warrants..................................... 12,442 1,772 3,994
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock and
warrants..................................... 80,200 19,000 --
Purchase of treasury stock.................... -- -- (1,200)
Net proceeds from bank borrowings............. 4,023 22,875 --
Repayments of long-term debt.................. (13,147) (426) --
-------- --------- --------
Net cash provided by financing activities..... 83,518 43,221 2,794
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equiva-
lents.......................................... 3,413 (25,978) (16,334)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the
period......................................... 3,670 29,648 45,982
-------- --------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period.. $ 7,083 $ 3,670 $ 29,648
======== ========= ========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes.
35
<PAGE>
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Conversion of debt and accounts payable to common
stock.............................................. 24,821 4,638 --
Interest paid....................................... 4,295 1,100 --
Taxes paid.......................................... -- 900 --
</TABLE>
36
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
1. OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Use of Estimates
The preparation of these financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and
accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Prior Year Presentation
Certain prior years statement of financial condition, statement of results
of operations, and statement of cash flow amounts have been reclassified to
conform to the 1997 presentation.
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of SyQuest
Technology, Inc. (the "Company" or "SyQuest") and its wholly owned
subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been
eliminated in consolidation.
Basis of Presentation
The Company's consolidated financial statements have been presented on a
going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the
satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. Over the last
two years the Company has experienced aggregate consolidated net losses of
$205,322,000 including a net loss of $68,671,000 for the year ended September
30, 1997. Working capital at September 30, 1997 was $1,436,000 as compared to
($37,351,000) at September 30, 1996.
The Company is in a turnaround situation which necessitates certain action
by Management which affect the business environment in which the Company
operates. The Company continues to face significant risks associated with
successful execution of its turnaround strategy. These risks include, but are
not limited to technology and product development, introduction and market
acceptance of new products, changes in the marketplace, liquidity, competition
form existing and new competitors which may enter the marketplace and
retention of key personnel.
As a result of new product introductions and funding continued operating
losses, the Company needs sufficient capital to implement a marketing strategy
that will adequately address the appropriate markets and generate sales demand
for its current and planned future products. The Company has funded the
cumulative losses primarily by issuance of additional capital stock. At the
November 1997 Special Stockholders' Meeting the Stockholders approved
increasing the Company's authorized capital stock from 120 million common
shares to 240 million common shares.
During the current fiscal year approximately $74.1 million of cash was used
for operating activities and approximately $6 million of cash was used for
capital expenditures. Management believes, based upon the additional $36.0
million cash raised in the first quarter of fiscal 1998, anticipated extension
of its bank credit lines and available cash balances, it has sufficient cash
resources to fund operations through the end of fiscal 1998. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be successful in achieving its internal
financial plan. The Company may need additional funds for promoting new
products and working capital required to support increased sales and support
the required investments in accounts receivable and inventory. Management's
financial plans for fiscal 1998 anticipate raising additional equity capital
primarily through exercise of currently
37
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
outstanding warrants were to be exercised the Company would receive cash
proceeds of approximately $90 million, however, the outstanding warrants do
not include any demand or call provisions. Management may have to entice
existing warrant holders to exercise their warrants by offering discounts to
the contractual exercise price and/or issuing exchange warrants at market or
negotiated discount exercise prices. Management believes it has sources of
equity capital beyond the exercise of currently outstanding warrants through
issuance of additional convertible preferred stock or issuance of a debt
instrument such as a convertible debenture. There can be no assurance,
however, that such financing would be available when needed, if at all, or on
favorable terms and conditions. If results of operations for fiscal 1998 do
not meet management's expectations, or additional capital is not available,
management believes it has the ability to reduce certain expenditures so as
not to require additional capital. The precise amount and timing of the
funding needs cannot be determined accurately at this time, and will depend on
a number of factors, including the market demand for the Company's products,
the quality of product development efforts, availability of critical
components, management of working capital, and continuation of normal payment
terms and conditions for purchase of materials and services.
As disclosed in Forms 10-Q filed with the SEC for the first and second
fiscal quarters of 1997, the Company released its results from continuing
operations and its financial condition through March 31, 1997. Such Forms 10-Q
address the Company's operating losses, decrease in revenues, subsequent
financing and management's plans to continue to reduce costs, increase
revenues and obtain additional financing.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with a maturity of
three months or less when purchased. These investments consist of income
producing securities, which are readily convertible to cash and are stated at
cost, which approximates market.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying value of the Company's financial instruments, including cash
and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses
and liabilities approximate fair value due to their short maturity.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company performs on-going credit evaluations of its customer's financial
condition and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary. No
collateral is generally required. The Company maintains an allowance for
potential credit losses which is based on the expected collectibility of all
accounts receivable. Management believes that any risk of loss is
significantly reduced by the ongoing and frequent evaluation of customer
balances and related allowances. At September 30, 1997, one customer accounted
for approximately 16% of the Company's worldwide revenues.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (determined on the first-in,
first-out method) or market. The Company provides for obsolete, slow moving or
excess inventories in the period when obsolescence or inventory in excess of
expected demand is first identified.
Net Plant, Property and Equipment
Net plant, property and equipment is stated on the basis of cost. Equipment
is depreciated over the estimated useful lives (three to five years) of the
assets using the straight-line method. Property and leasehold improvements are
amortized by the straight-line method over the shorter of the life of the
related asset or the term of the lease.
38
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
In fiscal 1997, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting
Standard No. 121 "Accounting for the Impairment of Long Lived Assets and for
Long Lived Assets to be Disposed Of." Accordingly, the Company evaluates asset
recoverability at each balance sheet date or when an event occurs that may
impair recoverability of the asset.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue upon shipment to customers and provides an
estimated allowance for returns based on the return history experienced by the
Company. The Company also provides an allowance for estimated price protection
upon announcement of a reduction in published prices.
Product Warranty
The Company generally warrants its products for one to three years. A
provision for estimated future warranty costs is recorded at the time of
shipment.
Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax
consequences of temporary differences between the income tax bases of assets
and liabilities and the amounts reported for financial reporting purposes for
all periods presented. (Note 5)
Foreign Currency Translation and Foreign Currency Transactions
The functional currency of the Company's foreign subsidiaries is the US
dollar. Subsidiary financial statements are remeasured into US dollars for
consolidation and foreign exchange gain and losses are recognized in the
current period results of operations. Foreign currency transaction gains
(losses) of $671,000, ($573,000), and $468,000 are included in other income
and expense for 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
Off Balance Sheet Risk
The Company currently does not enter into foreign currency forward exchange
contracts to hedge exposure related to foreign currency exchange risk and it
does not enter into derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. At
September 30, 1997 and 1996, the Company had no forward exchange contracts
outstanding.
Stock Based Compensation
The Company accounts for its stock option plans and the Employee Stock
Purchase Plan in accordance with provisions of the Accounting Principles
Board's Opinion No. 25 (APB 25), "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees."
In 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board released Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard No. 123 (SFAS 123), "Accounting for Stock Based
Compensation". SFAS 123 provides an alternative to APB 25 and is effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995. The Company adopted FAS 123 in
fiscal 1997, however, the Company continued to account for its employee stock
compensation purchase plans in accordance with the provisions of APB 25.
Additional pro forma disclosures as required by SFAS 123 are presented in note
11.
Loss Per Share
Loss per share for years ending September 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995 is based
on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding. All
other common equivalent shares were antidilutive. In 1997, the Financial
Accounting Standards Board released Statement of Financial Accounting Standard
No. 128 (SFAS
39
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
128), "Earnings per Share". SFAS 128 is effective for fiscal years ending
after December 15, 1997. The statement redefines earnings per share under
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Under the new standard, primary
earnings per share is replaced by basic earnings per share and fully diluted
earnings per share is replaced by diluted earnings per share. Approximately,
74.9 million, 6.4 million, and 2.2 million of potentially dilutive shares for
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, have not been included in the computation
of diluted earnings per share as they would have been antidilutive for the
periods presented. The Company has restated earnings per share to comply with
the new standard.
Comprehensive Income
In 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board released Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard No. 130 (SFAS 130), "Comprehensive Income". SFAS
130 is effective for fiscal years ending June 30, 1999. The statement
establishes presentation and disclosure requirements for reporting
comprehensive income. Comprehensive income includes charges or credits to
equity that are not the result of transactions with owners. The Company plans
to adopt the disclosure requirement and report comprehensive income as part of
the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity as required under SFAS 130,
and expects that there will be no material impact on the Company's financial
position and results of operations as a result of the adoption of SFAS 130.
Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information
In 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board released Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard No. 131 (SFAS 131), "Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information Comprehensive Income". SFAS 131 is
effective for the Company's fiscal years ending September 30, 1999. The
statement requires the Company to report certain financial information about
operating segments in the Company's financial statements. It also requires the
Company to report certain information about its products and services, the
geographic areas in which it operates and its major customers. The SFAS
established the "management approach" for reporting which provides that
segments should be reported consistent with management's internal segments for
operation decision making purposes and assessing performance.
40
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
2. BUSINESS SEGMENT AND CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
The Company operates in one business segment, the development, production
and marketing of removable cartridge Winchester disk drives and associated
cartridges. The Company has a manufacturing facility in Penang, Malaysia which
produces the majority of the Company's drives and cartridges. The Company
sells primarily to distributors in the personal computer market. The Company
performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers' financial condition and
generally requires no collateral. For the year ended, September 1997, one
customer accounted for approximately 16% of the Company's worldwide revenues.
The following tables summarize the Company's operations in different
geographic areas:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ADJUSTMENTS
NORTH AND
AMERICA EUROPE FAR EAST ELIMINATIONS CONSOLIDATED
--------- ------- -------- ------------ ------------
1997 (IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Sales to unaffiliated
customers.............. $ 69,146 $43,854 $ 9,723 -- $ 122,723
Transfers between geo-
graphic locations...... $ 10,370 $ 5,719 $117,503 $(133,592) --
Loss from Operations.... $ (64,125) $ 74 $ 3,759 $ (3,679) $ (63,971)
Identifiable Assets..... $ 56,191 $ 4,971 $ 28,642 $ (7,155) $ 82,649
1996
Sales to unaffiliated
customers.............. $ 131,122 $57,235 $ 12,050 -- $ 200,407
Transfers between geo-
graphic locations...... $ 27,060 $21,718 $228,288 $(277,066) --
Loss from Operations.... $(107,274) $ 452 $(20,187) $ (3,667) $(130,676)
Identifiable Assets..... $ 33,837 $ 2,536 $ 49,626 $ (10,818) $ 75,181
1995
Sales to unaffiliated
customers.............. $ 186,276 -- $113,268 -- $ 299,544
Transfers between geo-
graphic locations...... $ 8,590 -- $256,106 $(264,696) --
Loss from Operations.... $ (20,973) -- $ 5,618 $ (1,754) $ (17,109)
Identifiable Assets..... $ 97,008 -- $ 73,483 $ (5,807) $ 164,484
</TABLE>
Sales and transfers between geographic areas generally provide a profit.
Income from operations is total net revenues less operating expenses. The
identifiable assets by geographic area are those assets used in the Company's
operations in each area.
41
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
3. SUPPLEMENTARY BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30,
----------------
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Accounts receivable:
Accounts receivable...................................... $25,318 $36,035
Less allowances ......................................... (5,783) (5,694)
------- -------
$19,535 $30,341
======= =======
Inventories:
Raw materials............................................ $13,675 $ 5,005
Work-in-process.......................................... 6,840 4,481
Finished goods........................................... 6,222 1,052
------- -------
$26,737 $10,538
======= =======
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements:
Equipment................................................ 47,971 49,340
Furniture and Fixtures................................... 5,734 2,710
Property and leasehold improvements...................... 10,001 9,896
------- -------
63,706 61,946
Accumulated depreciation and amortization................ 40,707 34,765
------- -------
22,999 27,180
======= =======
Accrued expenses and other liabilities:
Accrued Warranty......................................... 1,832 6,757
Advertising.............................................. 2,123 2,999
Accrued compensation and benefits........................ 2,451 3,811
Other.................................................... 9,126 7,070
------- -------
15,532 20,637
======= =======
</TABLE>
4. BORROWINGS AND COMMITMENTS
At September 30, 1997, the Company had a line of credit agreement with a
U.S. financial institution, expiring March 1998. Borrowings under the
agreement bear interest at "LIBOR" (London Interbank Offered Rate) plus 4.825%
(10.75% at September 30, 1997 and 10.25% at September 30, 1996). The Company
is obligated to pay $10,000 of interest per month, regardless of outstanding
borrowings. The agreement provides for borrowings not to exceed $30 million or
an amount equal to 80% of the Company's eligible accounts receivables plus the
lesser of 40% of the Company's eligible finished goods inventories or $5.0
million. The agreement places limitations on additional borrowings and payment
of cash dividends. As of September 30, 1997, approximately $17.6 million of
borrowings were outstanding under the line of credit agreement.
On September 30, 1997, The Company's had a revolving banking facility (the
"facility") with a Malaysian financial institution consisting of a line of
credit of Malaysian Ringitts (RM) 17.5 million (approximately $5.4 million)
expiring March 1998 and a term loan of (RM) 9.9 million (approximately $3.0
million). The interest rate associated with the line of credit was 8.85% at
September 30, 1997, as compared to 8.28% at September 30, 1996. The term loan
is to be repaid in 120 monthly installments which began July 1997, and bears
interest at the rate of 1.0% over the bank's base lending rate (10.65% at
September 30, 1997 and 9.15% at September 30, 1996). The term loan has a
related overdraft facility of (RM) 2.0 million (approximately $0.6 million)
due on demand. The facility is secured by the subsidiary's building,
equipment, inventory and eligible receivables.
42
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
During fiscal years 1997 and 1996, the Company converted approximately $33.0
million in accounts payable and purchase commitments with certain suppliers to
notes payable. The notes, which bear interest at a rate of 10%, are scheduled
to be repaid by September 1998. Additionally, during the same period, the
Company converted approximately $30 million of accounts payable to equity.
On July 15, 1996, the Company issued a 6% Convertible Subordinated Debenture
to a supplier in the amount of $7.7 million. The debenture agreement allows
the holder to convert up to $2,775,000 of the principal amount of the
debenture into no more than 400,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at
the conversion price of $6.9375 per share. As of September 30, 1997, none of
the principal of the debenture had been converted to Common Stock. The balance
of the debenture agreement of approximately $3.5 million at September 30, 1997
is scheduled to be repaid by February 1999.
Lines of credit, term loan and notes payable obligations consist of the
following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30,
---------------
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Short-term Borrowings
Line of Credit, expiring March 1998...................... $17,619 $14,729
Line of Credit, principal and interest due on demand..... 5,383 4,010
Overdraft facility to term loan.......................... 289 529
------- -------
Total short term....................................... 23,291 19,268
Long-term Debt
Term Loan, payments due in monthly installments through
June 2007............................................... 3,039 3,607
Subordinated Debenture, payable in monthly installments
through February 1999................................... 3,544 7,252
Notes Payable to suppliers, payable in monthly
installments through September 1998..................... 1,786 30,661
------- -------
Total long-term debt................................... 8,369 41,520
------- -------
Total Debt................................................. 31,660 60,788
Less: Current portion...................................... 27,636 39,817
------- -------
Long-term debt............................................. $ 4,024 $20,971
======= =======
</TABLE>
Future minimum payments on lines of credit, term loan and notes payable are
as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1998............................................................... $27,636
1999............................................................... 1,480
2000............................................................... 495
2001............................................................... 495
2002............................................................... 495
Thereafter......................................................... 1,059
Total minimum payments............................................... $31,660
</TABLE>
The Company leases its United States facilities under noncancelable
operating lease agreements. These leases terminate through 2001, and certain
leases include five-year renewal options as well as provisions for adjustments
to lease payments based on the fair market value of similar properties. The
Company leases its Singapore facility under noncancelable lease agreements
expiring in 1997.
Total rent expense amounted to $2,300,000, $2,507,000, and $3,250,000 for
1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively.
43
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
Future minimum rental commitments under non-cancelable operating leases are
as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1998................................................................. 2,230
1999................................................................. 1,425
2000................................................................. 197
2001................................................................. 13
------
Total minimum lease payments......................................... $3,865
======
</TABLE>
5. INCOME TAXES
The income tax provisions for fiscal 1997, 1996, and 1995 consist of the
following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Federal:
Current............................................ $-- $(1,528) $ (421)
Deferred........................................... -- 3,197 (2,578)
---- ------- -------
1,669 (2,999)
State:
Current............................................ -- -- 181
Deferred........................................... -- 1,331 (928)
---- ------- -------
-- 1,331 (747)
Foreign:
Current............................................ 350 -- 25
---- ------- -------
Provision (benefit) for income taxes............... 350 $ 3,000 $(3,721)
==== ======= =======
</TABLE>
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences
between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and
are measured by applying enacted tax rates and laws to the taxable years in
which such differences are expected to reverse. The significant components of
the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30,
------------------
1997 1996
-------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Deferred Tax Assets
Credit carryforward...................................... $ 1,894 $ 1,894
Receivable reserves...................................... 2,295 2,979
Warranty reserves........................................ 724 1,575
Inventory valuation reserve.............................. 6,372 7,142
Domestic and foreign tax net operating losses............ 64,465 38,997
Other.................................................... 2,819 3,056
-------- --------
Total deferred tax assets................................ 78,569 55,643
Valuation allowance...................................... (71,844) (50,061)
-------- --------
Net deferred tax assets.................................. 6,725 5,582
Deferred Tax Liabilities................................. (6,725) (5,582)
-------- --------
Net deferred tax assets.................................. $ -- $ --
======== ========
</TABLE>
44
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on future earnings, if any,
the timing and amount of which are uncertain. Accordingly, a valuation
allowance, in an amount equal to the net deferred tax asset as of September
30, 1997 has been established to reflect these uncertainties.
The reconciliation of income taxes provided at the federal statutory rate to
the income tax provision follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income taxes (benefit) computed at the federal
statutory rate................................ $(24,035) $(46,610) $(5,272)
State income taxes (benefit) net of federal in-
come taxes effect............................. - -- (511)
Foreign losses for which no current tax benefit
is recognizable............................... 2,602 1,366 --
Taxes provided on earnings of foreign subsidi-
aries previously considered to be permanently
invested in non-US operations................. -- -- 1,768
Utilization of tax credits..................... -- -- (566)
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets.... 21,783 48,244 427
Other.......................................... -- -- 433
-------- -------- -------
$ 350 $ 3,000 $(3,721)
======== ======== =======
</TABLE>
Income taxes paid (refunded) were ($3,139,000), and $1,600,000, in fiscal
1996, and 1995, respectively.
The Company has approximately $12,000,000 in foreign net operating loss
carryforwards. These carryforwards will expire in fiscal 1999 through fiscal
2002.
At September 30, 1997, the Company had federal net operating loss
carryforwards of approximately $163 million. These carryforwards will expire
in 2010 and 2011 if not utilized. The Company had state net operating loss
carryforwards of approximately $93 million that will expire in 2002 if not
utilized. In addition, the Company had research and development tax credit
carryforwards for federal and state tax purposes of approximately $1.3 million
and $0.4 million, respectively. The federal tax credit carryforwards will
expire beginning in fiscal 2007 if not utilized.
During fiscal 1997, the Company experienced a "change of ownership" for tax
purposes that would result in an annual limitation on the utilization of
domestic net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards in future periods.
6. RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
In the quarter ended March 31, 1996, the Company developed and began
implementation of a plan to relocate the international manufacturing
capabilities in Singapore to Penang, Malaysia. The relocation was completed in
the third quarter of fiscal 1996. The Company recorded a $3.6 million charge
for direct costs related to exiting manufacturing facilities in Singapore. The
charge consisted of $1.6 million for the write-off of leasehold improvements,
$0.6 million for site closure and related costs and $1.4 million for staff
severance and retrenchment. As of September 30, 1996, substantially all of
these costs had been incurred, and no additional accrual was recorded.
In the quarter ended June 30, 1996 the Company recorded a $1.9 million
charge for restructuring costs associated with the consolidation and closure
of several of its administrative support locations. Actual charge in the
quarter ended September 30, 1996, were approximately $0.5 million associated
with the write-off of fixed
45
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
assets, $0.5 million of severance compensation, and $0.1 million for remaining
lease obligations. As of September 30, 1996, the consolidation of one location
was substantially complete, $0.8 million of the charge was reversed due to the
Company's decision to continue operations at one of the locations, and $0.6
million remains accrued to cover remaining exit costs.
7. TREASURY STOCK
In 1993, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to
one million shares of the Company's Common Stock. In April 1994, the Board of
Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to an additional 500,000
shares of the Company's Common Stock. There were no treasury stock
transactions during fiscal 1997. The Company acquired 100,000 and 625,000
shares of its Common Stock for approximately $1.2 million and $6.0 million
through open market transactions during fiscal 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The Company has acquired a total of 1,225,000 shares of its Common Stock as
of September 30, 1997. These shares are held as treasury stock at September
30, 1997.
8. CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
In June 1996, the Company issued 20,000 shares of 7% Cumulative Convertible
Preferred Stock, Series 1 ("Series 1") for net proceeds of approximately $19.0
million. The shares were convertible at the lessor of $11.0 per share or 77%
of the average market price for the 5 trading days immediately preceding
conversion. At September 30, 1997, all of the "Series 1" shares had been
converted into approximately 10,301,708 shares of the Company's common stock.
In October 1996, the Company issued 5,500 shares of its Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1 ("Convertible Preferred Stock") for
proceeds of $5,500,000. In order to minimize the discount to market present in
the "Series 1" financing, the "Convertible Preferred Stock" included warrant
coverage to acquire 550,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an
exercise price of $5.50 per share. The "Convertible Preferred Stock" was
convertible at the lessor of $6.50 per share or 85% of the average market
price for the 5 trading days immediately preceding conversion. In addition to
the warrants noted above, the holders of the Series 1 Preferred Stock were
entitled to receive, for every three shares of Common Stock acquired through
conversion, a warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise
price equal to the lesser of $7.15per share or 110% of the average market
price for the 5 trading days immediately preceding conversion. All "Series 1"
warrants expire three years after the date of issue. At September 30, 1997,
all of the "Convertible Preferred Stock" had been converted into approximately
3,289,981 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
In October 1996, the Company also issued 24,500 shares of its 5% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 2 ("Series 2") for proceeds of
$24,500,000. The "Series 2" financing included warrant coverage to acquire
approximately 4,146,816 shares of the Company's Common Stock. The "Series 2"
Stock was convertible at the lessor of $6.50 per share or 85% of the average
market price for the 5 trading days immediately preceding conversion. The
"Series 2" warrant formula specified that for every three shares of Common
Stock acquired through conversion, the holder would receive a warrant to
purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of
$7.15per share or 110% of the average market price for the 5 trading days
immediately preceding conversion. The "Series 2" warrants expire in three
years after the date of issue. The "Series 2" stock also contained a 5%
cumulative dividend payable in cash or common stock at the option of the
Company. At September 30, 1997, all of the "Series 2" Stock had been converted
into approximately 12,440,447 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
46
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
In April 1997, the Company issued 50,000 shares of its 5% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 3 ( "Series 3") for proceeds of
$5,000,000. The "Series 3" stock is convertible at the greater of the
arithmetical average of the closing sale price of the Common Stock for the 5
trading days immediately preceding the conversion or 90% of the closing sale
price the day before the conversion, but not greater than the closing sale
price on April 2, 1997 ($2.25). The "Series 3" Stock included warrant coverage
to acquire 5,000,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock at an exercise price
equal to the greater of the arithmetical average of the closing sale price of
the Common Stock for the 5 trading days immediately preceding the exercise of
the warrants or 90% of the closing sale price of the Common Stock on the day
immediately prior to the exercise of the warrants, but in no event greater
than $2.25 per share. The warrants expire seven years from the date of
issuance. The "Series 3" stock also contained a 5% cumulative dividend payable
in cash or common stock at the option of the Company. At September 30, 1997,
25,000 shares of the "Series 3" stock have been converted into approximately
1,386,500 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
In May 1997, the Company issued 280,000 shares of its 5% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 4 ( "Series 4") for proceeds of
$28,000,000. The "Series 4" stock is convertible at the greater of the
arithmetical average of the closing sale prices of the Common Stock for the 5
trading days immediately preceding the conversion or 90% of the closing sale
price the day before the conversion, but in no event greater than $2.3438 The
"Series 4" Stock included warrant coverage to acquire 28,000,000 shares of the
Company's Common Stock. The "Series 4" stock also contained a 5% cumulative
dividend payable in cash or common stock at the option of the Company. At
September 30, 1997, 25,000 shares of the "Series 4" stock have been converted
into approximately 1,386,500 shares of the Company's Common Stock. Refer to
the Company's May 30, 1997 8-K for a more detailed description of the "Series
4" transaction. The exercise price (the "Exercise Price")of the Warrants will
be the greater of the arithmetical average of the closing sales price per
share of common stock on the five consecutive trading days preceding the
delivery of the Exercise Notice (as defined below) and 90% of such closing
sale price on the day immediately prior to the delivery of the Exercise
Notice, but in any event not greater than $3.0469 per share. (The Warrants
issued to the Purchasers are not exercisable until the lapse of a period
ending on the sixty-fifth day after such Purchaser delivers a notice to
Registrant designating an aggregate number of Warrant Shares to be purchased.
Once such notice is given and the 65-dayperiod has passed, a Purchaser may
exercise its Warrant up to the number of shares designated in the 65-day
notice by providing further notice to Registrant that the Purchaser is
exercising the Warrant (the "Exercise Notice"). The Warrants expire seven
years from the date of each Purchaser's respective Agreement.)
In September, 1997, the Company issued 20,000 shares of its Convertible
Preferred Stock Series 5 ( "Series 5") for proceeds of $20,000,000. The
"Series 5" stock is convertible at the greater of the arithmetical average of
the closing sale prices of the Common Stock for the 5 trading days immediately
preceding the conversion or 90% of the closing sale price the day before the
conversion, but in no event greater than $3.0469. The "Series 5" Stock
included warrant coverage to acquire 14,000,000 shares of the Company's Common
Stock at an exercise price equal to the greater of the arithmetical average of
the closing sale price of the Common Stock for the 5 trading days immediately
preceding the exercise of the warrants or 90% of the closing sale price of the
Common Stock on the day immediately prior to the exercise of the warrants, but
in no event greater than $3.0469 per share. The warrants expire seven years
from the date of issuance. At September 30, 1997, none of the "Series 5" stock
had been converted.
Holders of the Company's Preferred Stock have no voting rights. In the event
of a voluntary or involuntary liquidation, the holders of the Preferred Stock
have a liquidation preference over the holders of the Company's Common Stock.
47
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
9. MANDATORILY REDEEMABLE SECURITIES
The Series 3 and Series 4 warrants noted above and certain warrants issued
with common stock contain a mandatory redemption feature whereby in the event
of an unsolicited tender offer for the majority of the Company's then
outstanding Common Stock ("change in control"), at the option of the warrant
holder, the warrants become redeemable for the cash value of the warrants. The
warrant agreement specifies the methodology to be used to determine the cash
value in the event of a change in control. Consequently, at September 30,
1997, the fair value of the warrants has been classified as a liability on the
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition.
The Series 5 warrants contain a clause whereby if the Company is unable to
provide sufficient shares of the Company's Common Stock to completely fulfill
the exercise of the warrants, then the Company must pay the warrant holder the
fair market value of the Company's Stock within 30 days of the receipt of the
exercise notice of the warrants. Consequently, at September 30, 1997, the fair
value of the warrants has been classified as temporary equity on the
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition. This clause was removed as a
result of the shareholder vote discussed further at the subsequent events
footnote at note 14.
The financial statements for the year ended September 30, 1997 reflect the
classification of the fair value assigned to warrants issued during the year
(that were subject to the mandatory redemption features noted above) as
mandatorily redeemable warrants on the Consolidated Statement of Financial
Condition. Total Stockholders' Equity on the Consolidated Statement of
Financial Condition at September 30, 1997 has been reduced by the fair value
assigned to warrants of $14.1 million to $5.6 million. The fair value assigned
to the warrants is based on an independent appraisal received by the Company.
10. RESTATEMENT (UNAUDITED)
The independent appraisal received by the Company resulted in a significant
reduction in the value originally assigned to the warrants issued in
conjunction with the convertible preferred stock. The fair value of warrants
issued in connection with certain mandatorily redeemable Preferred Stock has
been reflected as reducing the income available to common shareholders for the
purposes of the earnings per share computation. Previously, the Company had
included the fair value of warrants issued in conjunction with all Preferred
Stock in the determination of the earnings per share. Accordingly, the
reported net loss per share has been re-stated to reduce the net loss per
share for the year and quarters affected as follows.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 YTD
------ ------ ----- ----- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Basic and Diluted loss per share
as reported..................... $ (.86) $(1.31) $(.80) $(.54) $(3.34)
Change to net loss per share..... -- -- .49 .21 1.09
Revised Basic and Diluted loss
per share....................... $ (.86) $(1.31) $(.31) $(.33) $(2.25)
</TABLE>
The re-statement did not impact the reported net loss or cash flows of the
Company during the year ended September 30, 1997.
11. STOCK OPTION PLANS AND COMMON STOCK RESERVED
In 1991, the Company adopted the SyQuest Technology, Inc. 1991 Stock Option
Plan (the "Plan") covering 3,403,524 shares of common stock for issuance under
the Plan and assumed stock options currently outstanding under predecessor
stock option plans. The Plan provides for the issuance of incentive stock
options and non statutory stock options to officers, employees (including
directors who are also employees), consultants,
48
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
independent contractors and advisors to or of the Company or any parent,
subsidiary or affiliate of the Company. Options granted under the Plan are
granted at fair value on the date of grant and become exercisable within the
times or upon the events determined by the Stock Option Committee as set forth
in the grant and expire within ten years from the date of the grant. In 1995,
the Company adopted an amendment to the Plan to increase the authorized number
of shares for the plan to 4,428,524. On September 26, 1996, the shareholders
approved an amendment to the Plan to increase the number of shares issuable
under the Plan to 6,000,000. Other minor changes were made to the Plan to
comply with changes in Rule 16B3 under the Securities and Exchange Act of
1934. These changes did not affect the terms of any existing options.
In 1992, the Company adopted the 1992 Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan
(the "Director Plan") and reserved 150,000 shares of Common Stock for
issuance. The Director Plan was amended in 1994 to increase the size of the
annual option grants. The Board of Directors administers the Director Plan. In
1995, the Company adopted an amendment to the Nonemployee stock option plan to
increase the authorized number of shares for the plan to 250,000. On September
26, 1996, the shareholders approved an amendment to the Director Plan to
increase the authorized number of shares to 500,000. Options are granted at
fair value on the grant date and options may only be granted to Directors who
are not employees of the Company or its subsidiaries (Outside Directors). All
option grants are automatic and nondiscretionary. After each annual meeting of
stockholders at which directors are elected, reelected, or continuing as
directors, each Outside Director shall be automatically granted an option or
options. These options are to purchase such number of shares of Common Stock
as necessary so that during each of the four immediately following twelve-
month periods of July 1 through June 30, such Outside Directors will have
stock options (including Company stock options granted under plans other than
the Director Plan) which become exercisable with respect to a minimum of
10,000 shares during each such period. Prior to 1994 the minimum was 2,500
shares during each such period. On September 26, 1996, the stockholders
approved a one-time grant of 30,000 options for each new Outside Director
which were not counted in determining annual grants in the future. Other minor
changes were made to the Director Plan to comply with changes in Rule 16 of
the Securities and Exchange Commission Act of 1934. As of September 30, 1996,
options to purchase 160,000 shares of common stock were outstanding under the
Director plan.
On August 8, 1997, all outstanding options, except for Officer and Director
options, with a share price ranging from $28.25 per share to $3.0625 per share
were canceled and repriced with new options having an exercise price of
$2.5938 per share, the fair market value as of the date of the repricing. A
total of 1,401,934 shares were repriced.
The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plan and the
Director Plan:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WEIGHTED
AVERAGE
SHARE
SHARES PRICE
------ --------
<S> <C> <C>
Outstanding at September 30, 1994........................ 2,301 9.75
Granted.................................................. 833 13.4
Exercised................................................ (502) 5.85
Cancelled................................................ (431) 14.12
------ -----
Outstanding at September 30, 1995........................ 2,201 12.04
Granted.................................................. 2,247 5.79
Exercised................................................ (386) 3.69
Cancelled................................................ (1,306) 9.57
------ -----
Outstanding at September 30, 1996........................ 2,756 8.21
Granted.................................................. 2,302 3.24
Exercised................................................ (16) 1.02
Cancelled................................................ (1,765) 5.83
------ -----
Outstanding at September 30, 1997........................ 3,277 6.09
</TABLE>
49
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
The following table summarizes shares of Common Stock reserved for future
issuance by the Company under the Company's stock option and purchase plans as
of September 30, 1997:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
(AMOUNTS ARE IN THOUSANDS)
1991 stock option plan.................................................... 3,700
Director stock option plan................................................ 130
Employee stock purchase plan.............................................. 353
-----
4,183
=====
</TABLE>
As of September 30, 1997, options to purchase approximately 586,731 shares
of Common stock were exercisable. Options granted vest over a period of 4
years.
The weighted average estimated fair value at the date of grant, as defined
by SFAS 123, for options granted in fiscal 1996 and 1997 was $2.5399 and
$1.2502 per option, respectively. The estimated grant date fair value
disclosed above was calculated using the Black-Scholes model. This model, as
well as other currently accepted option valuation models, was developed to
estimate the fair value of freely tradable, fully transferable options without
vesting restrictions, which significantly differ from the Company's option
awards. These models also require subjective assumptions, including future
stock price volatility and expected time to exercise, which greatly affect the
calculated values. Significant option groups outstanding at September 30, 1997
and related weighted average exercise price and contractual life information
are as follows:
OUTSTANDING AND EXERCISABLE BY OPTION RANGE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WEIGHTED
AVERAGE WEIGHTED
REMAINING AVERAGE NUMBER
RANGE OF NUMBER CONTRACTUAL EXERCISE VESTED AND
EXERCISE PRICE OUTSTANDING LIFE PRICE EXERCISABLE
- -------------- ----------- ----------- -------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$2.5938 -- $3.873 ................. 3,298,359 4 years 3.32 727,036
$0.30 -- $12.50 ................. 2,683,540 4 years 5.5463 758,662
</TABLE>
The Company's calculations were made using the following weighted average
assumptions:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 1996
------------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Expected life.............................................. 2 years 2 years
Risk-free interest rate.................................... 6.13% 6.12%
Volatility................................................. 57.14% 56.99%
Dividend yield............................................. 0% 0%
</TABLE>
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN
In 1992, the Company adopted the 1992 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the
"Purchase Plan"), and 500,000 shares of common stock were reserved for
issuance under the Purchase Plan. The Purchase Plan is intended to qualify
under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Under the
plan, eligible employees of the Company may purchase shares of Common Stock
through payroll deductions. The ESPP consists of two 6-month offering and
purchasing periods each year. The purchase price per share is 85% of the lower
of the fair market values of the Common Stock at the commencement period or
the last day of the purchase period. Purchases are limited to 15% of an
eligible employee's compensation subject to a maximum annual employee
contribution limited to a $15,000 fair market value. Of the 500,000 shares
authorized under the ESPP, 89,206 shares were issued during fiscal 1997.
50
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
Compensation costs (including pro forma net income per share amounts) for
the grant date fair value, as defined by SFAS 123, of the purchase rights
granted under the ESPP were calculated using the Black-Sholes model. The
following weighted average assumptions are included in the estimated grant
date fair value calculations for rights to purchase stock under the ESPP:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
------------------
<S> <C>
Expected life...................................................... 6 months
Risk-free interest rate............................................ 5.97%
Volatility......................................................... 58.96%
Dividend yield..................................................... 0%
</TABLE>
The weighted average estimated grant date fair value, as defined by SFAS
123, or rights to purchase stock under the ESPP granted in fiscal 1997 was
$1.2088 per share.
PRO FORMA NET LOSS AND NET LOSS PER SHARE
Had the Company recorded compensation expense based on the estimated grant
date fair value, as defined by SFAS 123, for awards granted under the 1991 and
1992 Stock Option Plans and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, the Company's
pro forma net loss and net loss per share for the years ended September 30,
1997 and 1996, would have been as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 1996
------------- --------- ----------
IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT
PER SHARE DATA
<S> <C> <C>
Pro forma net (loss)................................. $ (69,702) $ (138,355)
Pro forma basic and diluted (loss) per share......... (2.28) (12.53)
</TABLE>
The pro forma effect on net loss and net loss per share for fiscal 1997 and
1996 is not representative of the pro forma effect on net income (loss) in the
future years because it does not take into consideration pro forma
compensation expense related to grants prior to fiscal 1995.
12. BONUS, PROFIT SHARING AND 401(K) SAVINGS AND RETIREMENT PLANS
The Company has an incentive stock bonus plan for certain key employees that
provides shares of the Company's stock based on meeting certain milestones.
Such determination considers the extent to which individuals and the Company
meet objectives during the year. The Company incurred approximately $353,000
of stock bonus expense in 1997. The Company did not incur bonus expenses in
1996 and 1995.
The Company adopted a 401(k) Savings and Retirement Plan (the "Savings
Plan") to provide for voluntary salary deferral contributions on a pretax
basis in accordance with Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended. The Company has the option of matching a certain percent of each
participant's contribution to the Savings Plan. The Company's maximum
contribution per participant is limited to $1,000. The Company made matching
contributions of approximately $266,000, $254,000 and $242,000 in 1997, 1996,
and 1995, respectively.
The Company has bonus and profit sharing plans that provide additional
compensation to substantially all employees. The profit sharing compensation
is determined on an annual basis based principally on a percentage of income
after taxes, before profit sharing, and the Company meeting certain objectives
for the year. Bonuses for officers and key management personnel are determined
annually at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Such determination
considers the extent to which individuals and the Company meet objectives for
the year. The Company did not incur profit sharing expenses in 1997 or 1996.
51
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
13. LITIGATION
The Company has been named as a defendant in four putative class action
lawsuits. Two of the actions, Ravens, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed April
2, 1996) and Belleza, et al. v. Iftikar, et al. (filed May 24, 1996) have been
brought in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
California and have been assigned to the Honorable Vaughn Walker
(collectively, the "Federal Lawsuit"). Certain current and former officers and
directors also have been named as defendants in the Federal Lawsuit. The
plaintiffs in the Federal Lawsuit purport to represent a class of all persons
who purchased the Company's Common Stock between October 21, 1994 and February
1, 1996. The Federal Lawsuit alleges that the defendants violated the federal
securities laws through certain alleged material misrepresentations and
omissions. In general, the litigation alleges insider trading by certain
officers and directors of the Company, failures to disclose on a timely basis
contamination problems in the SQ3270 drive, failure to disclose on a timely
basis that the EZ135 drive could not be sold profitably given the cost of
production, and the failure of certain of the Company's financial statements
to reflect properly the value of inventory relating to those two drives. In
January 1997, the Court denied the motion of certain plaintiffs to be
appointed lead plaintiffs under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995 (the "Reform Act") on the ground, inter alia, that the plaintiffs'
published notice to the class did not constitute adequate notice of the
litigation under the Reform Act. In July 1997, the Court denied a motion for
reconsideration of its prior order and directed the plaintiffs to issue a
revised notice and/or amend their complaint by August 22, 1997, or be subject
to a motion to dismiss or for summary judgement. Plaintiffs have informed the
Court that they elect to stand on the existing notice and complaint.
The third suit is a purported class action entitled Gary S. Kaufman v.
SyQuest Technology Inc., et al. was filed on March 25, 1996, in the Superior
Court of the State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Kaufman
Lawsuit"). The fourth purported class action, entitled Ravens, et al. v.
Iftikar, et al., was filed on October 11, 1996, in the Superior Court of the
State of California for the County of Alameda (the "Ravens Lawsuit"). The
Kaufman Lawsuit and the Ravens Lawsuit (collectively the "State Court
Lawsuit") have been consolidated and a Consolidated Amended Complaint was
filed on December 6, 1996. The allegations are essentially the same as in the
Federal Lawsuits and seek unspecified damages and punitive damages on behalf
of all persons who purchased the Company's Common Stock from October 21, 1994
and February 1, 1996. Pursuant to a Stipulation and Order entered on August 6,
1997, the State Court Lawsuit has been referred to mediation before a retired
federal judge.
On May 14, 1996, the Company was served with a shareholders derivative
action filed in Alameda County, California, Superior Court entitled John
Nitti, et al. v. Syed Iftikar, et al (the "Derivative Lawsuit"). On July 22,
1996, plaintiffs filed an amended complaint. The action seeks to recover
unspecified damages and punitive damages on behalf of the Company from current
and former officers and directors of the Company for alleged breach of
fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment and waste of corporate assets. The Company
is a nominal defendant in the action. The complaint alleges that the officers
and directors issued false and misleading information and sold shares of the
Company's stock at artificially inflated prices. The allegations are
essentially the same as those in the putative class actions. Counsel for
plaintiffs in the Derivative Lawsuit are participating in the mediation
ordered for the State Court Lawsuit described above.
The Company intends to defend the Federal Lawsuit, the State Court Lawsuit
and the Derivative Lawsuit vigorously, but there can be no assurance as to
what financial effect this litigation may have on the Company. If there is an
adverse result, the Company does not expect any particular product line to be
effected as the plaintiffs seek monetary, rather than injunctive relief.
Nevertheless, a materially unfavorable outcome could have an adverse effect on
the Company's financial condition, results of operations and cash flow. No
loss contingency has been provided for these lawsuits as the amounts of any
loss, if any, are not yet determinable or reasonably estimable.
52
<PAGE>
From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation that it considers
to be in the normal course of its business. Other than set forth below, the
Company is not engaged in any legal proceedings as of the date hereof which
the Company expects individually or in the aggregate to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition or results of operations.
On December 3, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a lawsuit in the United
States District Court in and for the Northern District of California against
the Company. The lawsuit alleges that the Company's use of the trademark SparQ
in connection with its recently introduced SparQ removable cartridge hard
drive product constitutes an infringement of the SPARC trademark owned by
SPARC International, Inc. The complaint requests money damages and a
preliminary and permanent injunction enjoining the Company from further
infringement. On December 19, 1997, SPARC International, Inc. filed a motion
seeking a preliminary injunction enjoining the Company from using the SparQ
trademark on its removable cartridge hard drive products and requesting a
hearing on January 26, 1998. The Company believes that it does not infringe
any valid trademarks of SPARC International, Inc. and intends to defend itself
vigorously against this action.
On July 29, 1997, Iomega Corporation ("Iomega") initiated an action for
patent and trademark infringement against SyQuest in the United States
District Court for the District of Delaware. The suit alleges that SyQuest's
SyJet and EZFlyer 230 products infringe United States Utility Patent No.
5,644,444, entitled "Read/Write Protect Scheme for a Disk Cartridge and
Drive", and that the cartridges sold by SyQuest for use with its SyJet and
EZFlyer 230 products infringe United States Design Patent No. Des. 378,518,
entitled "Computer Storage Disk Cartridge." The suit further alleges that
SyQuest has infringed Iomega's claimed "Jet" trademark and engaged in unfair
competition through the use of the "SyJet" name for one of it products. Iomega
seeks a judgment of infringement, monetary damages, injunctive relief,
disgourgement of profits, treble actual damages on the disputed products, and
attorney's fees. Iomega also seeks exemplary damages and attorneys' fees based
on SyQuest's alleged willful infringement of Iomega's claimed trademark.
SyQuest has filed an answer and counterclaim denying infringement and
requesting a declaratory judgment that the patents-in-suit are invalid and not
infringed. The case is in the early stages of discovery. In interrogatory
responses served December 3, 1997, Iomega asserted that SyQuest's recently
introduced SparQ product and not yet introduced Quest product infringe
Iomega's design patent and that it is investigating whether it believes that
the SparQ or Quest products infringe Iomega's utility patent. The Court has
set a trial date of January 11, 1999. SyQuest believes it has meritorious
defenses to Iomega's allegations and intends to defend the case vigorously.
On or about June 10, 1997, the Company initiated litigation against
Castlewood Systems, Inc. and eleven (11) former Company employees in Santa
Clara Superior Court, No. 766757 asserting ten (10) causes of action,
including claims for misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition,
and breach of fiduciary duty. On or about July 16, 1997, Castlewood filed a
Cross-Complaint against the Company, alleging three (3) causes of action
(interference with prospective economic advantage; unfair competition; trade
libel). The Company seeks money damages and an injunction from engaging in
such conduct. Since that time, the parties have engaged exclusively in
hearings before Thomas E. Schatzel, Esq., the Court-appointed discovery
referee, to finalize the Company's identification of trade secrets in
accordance with the requirements of the California Code of Civil Procedure (S)
2019 (d). The Company's Seconded Amended Identification of Trade Secrets was
deemed acceptable by the Discovery Referee on October 20, 1997. Discovery has
only recently begun, and there can be no assurance as to what impact this
litigation may have on the Company.
In 1996, the Company filed suit against Nomai, S.A. (Nomai) and Maxell in
France for copyright and patent infringement. The Company initiated an
arbitration proceeding against Nomai seeking payment of outstanding royalties
of approximately $1 million. On January 27, 1997, the Company filed a
Complaint in the United States District Court in Northern District of
California against Nomai, S.A., Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin, Herve Frouin,
Electronique d2, and La Cie Ltd., entitled SyQuest Technology, Inc. v. Nomai,
S.A. et al. (Case No. C97-0271 FMS) (the "Nomai Action") alleging patent and
trademark infringement, misrepresentation, breach of contract and other
claims. During April through June 1997, Nomus, Inc., Marc Frouin and Herve
Frouin (collectively the "Nomai Parties") filed certain Cross-Complaints
against the Company. The parties have engaged in discussions concerning the
terms of a potential resolution to the Nomai Action. The Company and the Nomai
Parties have
53
<PAGE>
resolved the claims alleged in the Nomai action on December 16, 1997, pursuant
to a Settlement Agreement, ("Settlement Agreement"). In accordance with the
Settlement Agreement a stipulation to dismiss the Company's complaint and the
Nomai's Parties' cross-complaint with prejudice was filed. The Nomai Action
remains pending against defendants Electronique d2 and La Cie Ltd.
On, March 7, 1997, RKS Design, Inc. filed suit against the Company alleging
that the Company failed to pay $48,394.21 of interest charges on fees charged
for design services rendered with respect to its EZ Flyer and SyJet products.
The suit requests damages including profits associated with these products,
interest and attorneys' fees. The Company has filed a counterclaim asserting,
inter alia, that no amount is owing to RKS, and that the Company is entitled
to a refund of certain overpayments made to RKS. The Company does not believe
that this claim will have a material adverse affect on the Company or its
financial position or its results of operations.
Due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, management is unable to
predict the outcome of the above litigation. A materially unfavorable outcome
of the above litigation could have an adverse effect on the Company's
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation that it considers
to be in normal course of business. Other than as set forth above, the Company
is not engaged in any legal proceedings as of September 30, 1997, which the
Company expects individually or in the aggregate to have a material adverse
effect on the Company's financial condition or results of operation.
14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On November 5, 1997, at a special shareholder meeting, the shareholders of
the Company approved a proposal amending the existing articles of
incorporation to increase the authorized shares of the Company from 120
million to 240 million. On December 10, 1997, assuming the conversion of all
outstanding preferred stock and the exercise of all outstanding warrants and
other stock commitments, the Company has outstanding and committed
approximately 153 million shares of the Company's common stock.
During October and November, 1997, the Company issued Series 5 convertible
preferred stock for approximately $10 million in proceeds and approximately 7
million of outstanding warrants were exercised resulting in approximately $26
million in proceeds to the Company. Further, the Company committed to issue
4.5 million new warrants to warrant holders to exercise outstanding warrants
with terms and conditions substantially the same as other outstanding Series 5
warrants.
During the quarter ended December 31, 1997, the Company incurred a
substantial loss of approximately $39.0 million. The Company has raised an
additional $30 million in equity financing to fund these losses. Management
discusses its plans to address continued losses in note 1 "Basis of
Presentation", paragraphs 4-7.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
During the fiscal years 1996 and 1995, the Registrant engaged the accounting
firm of Ernst & Young LLP ("E&Y") as the independent accountants to audit
Registrant's financial statements. At a meeting on January 23, 1997,
Registrant indicated that it was changing its independent accountants. E&Y
confirmed its discontinuation of services to Registrant by letter dated
January 24, 1997, and received by Registrant on January 27, 1997. On January
30, 1997, Registrants engaged (subject to final approval by Price Waterhouse
LLP) the firm of Price Waterhouse LLP to act as its independent accountants
for the 1997 fiscal year.
Registrant's decision to engage Price Waterhouse LLP as Registrant's
independent accountants was concurred with by Registrant's Audit Committee and
approved by its Board of Directors.
E&Y's reports on Registrant's financial statements for the fiscal years 1996
and 1995 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion nor
were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting
principles.
54
<PAGE>
During the two fiscal years ended September 30, 1996, and subsequent interim
periods prior to January 23, 1997, there were no disagreements, as that term
is used in paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of Item 304 ("Item 304") of Regulation S-K
promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), between
Registrant and E&Y, which, if not resolved to the satisfaction of E&Y, would
have caused E&Y to refer thereto in their reports on Registrant's financial
statements for such periods.
There has not occurred, during the two fiscal years ended September 30,
1996, or any subsequent interim period prior to January 23, 1997, any
reportable events, as defined in paragraph (a)(1)(v) of Item 304, with respect
to E&Y, except as set forth in a letter from E&Y to Registrant's Audit
Committee, dated December 11, 1996, which Registrant received on January 29,
1997, noting a material weakness in Registrant's internal control structure
relative to the preparation of accurate financial statements in a timely
fashion for Registrant's fiscal year ended September 30, 1996.
During the two fiscal years ended September 30, 1996, and the subsequent
interim periods prior to January 23, 1997, Registrant did not consult Price
Waterhouse LLP regarding the application of accounting principles to a
specified transaction or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on
Registrant's financial statements or regarding any matter that was either
subject to a disagreement or a reportable event, as those terms are used in
paragraphs (a)(1)(iv) and (a)(1)(v), respectively, of Item 304.
Registrant is filing the letter dated January 30, 1997, from E&Y addressed
to the SEC, stating that it agrees with the statements herein.
55
<PAGE>
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the
Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to
be held in 1998 ("Proxy Statement"), to be filed with the Commission within
120 days after the end of the Company's fiscal year pursuant to General
Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this Item is incorporated by Reference to the
Proxy Statement to be filed with the Commission within 120 days after the end
of the Company's fiscal year pursuant to General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-
K.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the
Proxy Statement to be filed with the Commission within 120 days after the end
of the Company's fiscal year pursuant to General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-
K.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the
Proxy Statement to be filed with the Commission within 120 days after the end
of the Company's fiscal year pursuant to General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-
K.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this Report:
(1) Financial Statements. The following Consolidated Financial Statements of
SyQuest Technology, Inc. and subsidiaries are included in Item 8 of this
Annual Report on Form 10-K:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Report of Price Waterhouse LLP, Independent Accountants................ 30
Report of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors...................... 31
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition--September 30 1997 and
1996.................................................................. 32
Consolidated Statement of Results of Operations--Years Ended September
30, 1997,
1996, and 1995........................................................ 33
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)--Years Ended
September 30, 1997,
1996, and 1995........................................................ 34
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows--Years Ended September 30, 1997,
1996 and 1995......................................................... 35
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................. 37
</TABLE>
(2) Financial Statement Schedule. The following consolidated financial
statement schedule of the Company and subsidiaries are filed as part of this
Report and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial
Statements of SyQuest Technology, Inc. and subsidiaries.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SCHEDULE PAGE
-------- ----
<S> <C>
II--Valuation and Qualifying Accounts.................................. 63
</TABLE>
Schedules not listed above have been omitted because they are not applicable
or are not required or the information required to be set forth therein is
included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.
56
<PAGE>
EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT
------- -----------------------
<C> <S>
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the fiscal period ended September 30, 1995.
3.2 Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company's Form S-3
Registration Statement filed December 2, 1996 (File No. 333-17119), as
amended and to be amended.
3.3 By-Laws of the Company. Incorporated by reference to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed on
November 9, 1991.
3.4 Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
the Company filed May 20, 1997.
3.5 Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
the Company filed November 26, 1997.
4.1 Specimen stock certificate, $.001 par value. Incorporated by reference
to Amendment No. 2 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(File No. 33-43656) filed on December 10, 1991.
4.2 Corrected Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of 7%
Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K
dated June 14, 1996.
4.3 Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, by and among
the Company and holders of 7% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock,
Series 1. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 14, 1996.
4.4 Registration Rights Agreement dated as of May 31, 1996, by and among
the Company and holders of 7% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock,
Series 1. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 14, 1996.
4.5 6% Convertible Subordinated Debenture dated July 15, 1996.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company's Form S-3
Registration Statement No. 333-7369 ("Registration 333-7369").
4.6 Registration Agreement dated July 15, 1996, among the Company and
WISRS (Malaysia) SDN.BMP. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of
Registration 333-7369.
4.7 Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Convertible
Preferred Stock, Series 1, as amended and agreed to be amended.
Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current
Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
4.8 Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of 5% Cumulative
Preferred Stock, Series 2. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 3.2 to
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
4.9 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 8, 1996, among the
Company and the buyers of the Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1
including the following exhibits: Form of Warrant, Form of
Registration Rights Agreement, Form of Escrow Agreement and certain
Schedules to the representations. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit
10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31,
1996.
4.10 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 8, 1996, among the
Company and certain buyers of the Series 2 Preferred Stock, including
the following exhibits: Form of Escrow Agreement, Form of Warrant,
Form of Registration Rights Agreement and certain Schedules to the
representations. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
</TABLE>
57
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT
------- -----------------------
<C> <S>
4.11 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 8, 1996, among the
Company and certain buyers of the Series 2 Preferred Stock, including
the following exhibits: Form of Escrow Agreement, Form of Warrant,
Form of Registration Rights Agreement and certain Schedules to the
representations. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
4.12 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 8, 1996, among the
Company and certain buyers of the Series 2 Preferred Stock, including
the following exhibits: Form of Escrow Agreement, Form of Warrant,
Form of Registration Rights Agreement and certain Schedules to the
representations. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
4.13 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 8, 1996, among the
Company and certain buyers of the Series 2 Preferred Stock, including
the following exhibits: Form of Escrow Agreement, Form of Warrant,
Form of Registration Rights Agreement and certain Schedules to the
representations. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
4.14 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of September 27, 1996, between
the Company and Atmel Corporation, including the exhibit Form of
Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit
10.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31,
1996.
4.15 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 18, 1996, between
the Company and Petronic International, Inc., including the exhibit
Form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to
Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated
October 31, 1996.
4.16 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 24, 1996, between
the Company and SAE Magnetics (HK) Ltd., including the exhibit Form of
Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit
10.8 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated October 31,
1996.
4.17 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of October 25, 1996, between
the Company and Freight Solutions International, including the exhibit
Form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to
Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated
October 31, 1996.
4.18 Subscription Agreement dated November 12, 1996, between SyQuest
Technology, Inc. and Fletcher International Limited, including the
Annex Warrant Certificate issued November 13, 1996. Incorporated by
Reference to Exhibit 4.18 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-
K/A for the fiscal period ending September 30, 1996.
4.19 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of February 28, 1997, between
the Company and A-Corn Enterprises Company, Ltd., including the
exhibit form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by
Reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K
dated February 28, 1997.
4.20 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of March 19, 1997, between the
Company and Seksun Precision Engineering Limited, including the
exhibit form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by
Reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K
dated February 28, 1997.
4.21 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of March 26, 1997, between the
Company and Tongkah SDN.BHD., including the exhibit form of
Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit
10.4 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K dated February 28,
1997.
4.22 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of March 26, 1997, between the
Company and Silicon Systems, Inc., including the exhibit form of
Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit
10.5 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K dated February 28,
1997.
4.23 Subscription Agreement dated March 31, 1997, between the Company and
Fletcher International Limited, including as Annex B thereto the form
of Warrant Certificate issued pursuant thereto. Incorporated by
Reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K
dated February 28, 1997.
</TABLE>
58
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT
------- -----------------------
<C> <S>
4.24 Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of 5% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 3.
4.25 Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of April 15, 1997, between the
Company and Jardine Matheson & Company, Ltd., including the exhibit
form of Registration Rights Agreement. Incorporated by Reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report of Form 8-K dated May 30,
1997.
4.26 Securities Purchase Agreement dated May 1, 1997, between the Company
and New Enterprises Associates VII, L.P., which agreement is
representative of similar agreements reached with Combination, Inc.,
Olympus Securities, Ltd., Nelson Partners, RGL International
Investors, LDC, CC Investments, LDC, Gross Foundation, Inc., Capital
Ventures International, Tail Wind Fund, Southbrook International
Investments, Ltd. and Millenco, LP, including as Annex B the form of
warrant certificate. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
Company's Current Report of Form 8-K dated May 30, 1997.
4.27 Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of 5% Cumulative
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 4.
4.28 Certificate of Correction to Certificate of Designations, Preferences
and Rights of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 4.
4.29 Securities Purchase Agreement dated August 4, 1997, between the
Company and Jayhawk Investments, L.P., which agreement is
representative of similar agreements reached with Jayhawk
Institutional Partners, L.P., including as Annex A the form of warrant
certificate. Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's Current Report of Form 8-K dated August 4, 1997.
4.30 Securities Purchase Agreement dated September 3, 1997, between the
Company and Olympus Securities, Ltd., which agreement is
representative of similar agreements reached with Nelson Partners, RGL
International Investors, LDC, CC Investments, LDC, and Capital
Ventures International, including as Exhibit A the Certificate of
Designations, Preferences and Rights of Convertible Preferred Stock,
Series 5, and as Exhibit B the form of warrant certificate.
Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current
Report of Form 8-K dated August 4, 1997.
4.31 Securities Purchase Agreement dated October 3, 1997, between the
Company and Olympus Securities, Ltd., which agreement is
representative of similar agreements reached with Nelson Partners, and
Multiple Import Export, Ltd., including as Exhibit A the Certificate
of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Convertible Preferred
Stock, Series 5, and as Exhibit B the form of warrant certificate.
Incorporated by Reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current
Report of Form 8-K dated October 4, 1997.
10.1 Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Company and its
directors*. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed on November 9, 1991.
10.2 Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Company and its
executive officers*. Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 2 to
the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656)
filed on December 10, 1991.
10.3 Industrial Space Lease dated May 15, 1990, between SyQuest Technology
and Renco Investment Company covering property located at 47100
Bayside Parkway in Fremont, California, with other documents related
thereto. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed on November 9, 1991.
10.4 Industrial Space Lease dated July 30, 1991, between SyQuest Technology
and Renco Investment Company covering property located at Building
#47, Bayside Parkway in Fremont, California with other documents
related thereto. Incorporated by reference to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed with on
November 9, 1991.
10.5 Tenancy of Flatted Factory Unit dated July 18, 1990, between SyQuest
Technology (c) and Jurong Town Corporation covering property located
at 30 Kallang Place, Singapore. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed
on November 9, 1991.
</TABLE>
59
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT
------- -----------------------
<C> <S>
10.10 Form of Stock Option Grant for SyQuest Technology, Inc 1991 Stock
Option Plan*. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 33-46460) filed on March 18, 1992.
10.11 Policy Regarding Options and Cash Bonuses to be Awarded to Employees
of Iota Memories Corporation*. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed
on November 9, 1991.
10.12 1992 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan, as amended*.
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1995.
10.13 1992 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended. Incorporated by
reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 33-48273) filed on June 9, 1992.
10.14 Credit Agreement dated January 17, 1992, among the Company and Silicon
Valley Bank and First National Bank of Boston. Incorporated by
reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-47361) filed on April 21, 1992.
10.15 Bonus Arrangements for Executive Officers*. Incorporated by reference
to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period
ended September 30, 1995.
10.16 Amendment No. 2 to Credit Agreement made as of June 10, 1993, among
the Company, Silicon Valley Bank and First National Bank of Boston.
Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1993.
10.17 Line of Credit Agreement dated February 28, 1995, with Silicon Valley
Bank, and Amendment No. 1 thereto. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March
31, 1995.
10.18 Line of Credit Agreement with Bank of America. Incorporated by
reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 31, 1995.
10.19 Amendment No. 2 to Silicon Valley Bank Credit Agreement and Limited
Waiver dated November 21, 1995. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 21, 1995.
10.20 Amendment No. 3 to Silicon Valley Bank Credit Agreement and Limited
Waiver dated December 27, 1995. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended
September 30, 1995.
10.21 Loan and Security Agreement dated January 17, 1996, by and between the
Company and Greyrock Business Credit, a division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation.
10.22 Amendment No. 2 dated March 15, 1996, by and between the Company and
Greyrock Business Credit, a division of NationsCredit Commercial
Corporation.
10.23 Amendment No. 3 dated December 10, 1996, together with Letter of
Credit Agreement dated March 15, 1996, by and between the Company and
Greyrock Business Credit, a division of NationsCredit Commercial
Corporation.
10.24 Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement dated March 3, 1997,
by and between the Company and Greyrock Business Credit, a division of
NationsCredit Commercial Corporation.
11.1 Computation of Earnings Per Share.
21.1 Subsidiaries of the Company. Incorporated by reference to the
Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-43656) filed
on November 9, 1991.
22.1 Published Report Regarding Special Stockholders Meeting on September
26, 1996. Incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on
Form 8-K/A dated October 31, 1996.
</TABLE>
60
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT
------- -----------------------
<C> <S>
23.1 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
23.2 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
27 Financial Data Schedule (previously filed).
</TABLE>
- --------
* A management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be
filed as an Exhibit pursuant to Item 14(c) of this Report.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
A current report on Form 8-K, dated October 4, 1997, was filed by the
Company reporting under Item 5 the sale of certain equity securities pursuant
to regulation D.
A current report on Form 8-K, dated November 11, 1997, was filed by the
Company reporting under Item 5 certain warrant transactions pursuant to
regulation D.
A current report on Form 8-K, dated November 11, 1997, was filed by the
Company reporting under Item 5 the filing of a Registration Statement on Form
S-3.
61
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, THE REGISTRANT HAS DULY CAUSED THIS REPORT TO BE SIGNED
ON ITS BEHALF BY THE UNDERSIGNED, THEREUNTO DULY AUTHORIZED.
SyQuest Technology, Inc.
/s/ Edwin L. Harper
By: __________________________________
Edwin L. Harper
President and Chief Executive
Officer
Dated: February 24, 1998
PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, THIS
REPORT HAS BEEN SIGNED BELOW BY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS ON BEHALF OF THE
REGISTRANT AND IN THE CAPACITIES AND ON THE DATES INDICATED.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
--------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Edwin L. Harper President, Chief
- ---------------------------- Executive Officer and February 24, 1998
EDWIN L. HARPER Director (Principal
Executive Officer)
/s/ Bob L. Corey Executive Vice
- ---------------------------- President, Finance and February 24, 1998
BOB L. COREY Chief Financial Officer
/s/ Edward L. Marinaro Director and Chairman
- ---------------------------- of the Board February 24, 1998
EDWARD L. MARINARO
/s/ Joseph Baia Director
- ---------------------------- February 24, 1998
JOSEPH BAIA
</TABLE>
62
<PAGE>
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
SCHEDULE II--VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
BALANCE AT ADDITIONS BALANCE AT
BEGINNING CHARGED TO COSTS END OF
DESCRIPTION OF PERIOD AND EXPENSES DEDUCTIONS PERIOD
----------- ---------- ---------------- ---------- ----------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Year Ended September 30,
1997:
Allowance for doubtful
accounts................ $ 5,694 $ 1,320 $(3,794)(1) $ 3,220
Year Ended September 30,
1996:
Allowance for doubtful
accounts................ $ 2,835 $ 5,839 $(2,980)(1) $ 5,694
Year Ended September 30,
1995:
Allowance for doubtful
accounts................ $ 3,574 $ 2,008 $(2,747)(1) $ 2,835
Year Ended September 30,
1997:
Inventory Reserves....... $13,887 $ 5,859 $(3,817)(2) $15,929
Year Ended September 30,
1996:
Inventory Reserves....... $11,889 $ 1,998 $ -- $13,887
Year Ended September 30,
1995:
Inventory Reserves....... $ 5,346 $12,498 $(5,955)(2) $11,889
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Represents uncollectable accounts written off.
(2) Represents a reduction in reserves for Legacy (inactive) products which
were fully reserved and subsequently sold.
63
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 10.21
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: JANUARY 17, 1996
This Loan and Security Agreement is entered into on the above date between
GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT, a Division of NationsCredit Commercial Corporation
("GBC"), whose address 300 North Continental Blvd., Suite 200, El Segundo,
California 90245 and the borrower named above ("Borrower"), whose chief
executive office is located at the above address ("Borrower's Address"). The
Schedule to this Agreement (the "Schedule") being signed concurrently is an
integral part of this Agreement. (Definitions of certain terms used in this
Agreement are set forth in Section 8 below.)
1. LOANS.
1.1 LOANS. GBC will make loans to Borrower (the "Loans"), in amounts
determined by GBC in its sole discretion, up to the amounts (the "Credit Limit")
shown on the Schedule, provided no Default or Event of Default has occurred and
is continuing. If at any time or for any reason the total of all outstanding
Loans and all other Obligations exceeds the Credit Limit, Borrower shall
immediately pay the amount of the excess to GBC, without notice or demand.
1.2 INTEREST. All Loans and all other monetary Obligations shall bear
interest at the rate shown on the Schedule, except where expressly set forth to
the contrary in this Agreement or in another written agreement signed by GBC and
Borrower. Interest shall be payable monthly, on the last day of the month.
Interest may, in GBC's discretion, be charged to Borrower's loan account, and
the same shall thereafter bear interest at the same rate as the other Loans.
1.3 FEES. Borrower shall pay GBC the fee(s) shown on the Schedule, which are
in addition to all interest and other sums payable to GBC and are not
refundable.
2. SECURITY INTEREST.
2.1 SECURITY INTEREST To secure the payment and performance of all of the
Obligations when due. Borrower hereby grants to GBC a security interest in all
of Borrower's interest in the following, whether now owned or hereafter
acquired, and wherever located (collectively, the "Collateral"): All Inventory,
Equipment, Receivables, and General Intangibles, including, without limitation,
all of Borrower's Deposit Accounts, all money, all collateral in which GBC is
granted a security interest pursuant to any other present or future agreement,
all property * now or at any time in the future in GBC's possession, and all
proceeds (including proceeds of any insurance policies, proceeds of proceeds and
claims against third parties), all products of the foregoing, and all books and
records related to any of the foregoing.
* OF BORROWER
3. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF THE BORROWER.
-1-
<PAGE>
In order to induce GBC to enter into this Agreement and to make Loans,
Borrower represents and warrants to GBC as follows, and Borrower covenants that
the following representations will continue to be true, and that Borrower will
at all times comply with all of the following covenants:
3.1 CORPORATE EXISTENCE AND AUTHORITY. Borrower, if a corporation, is and
will continue to be, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under
the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation. Borrower is and will continue
to be qualified and licensed to do business in all jurisdictions in which any
failure to do so would have a material adverse effect on Borrower. The
execution, delivery and performance by Borrower of this Agreement, and all other
documents contemplated hereby (i) have been duly and validly authorized, (ii)
are enforceable against Borrower in accordance with their terms (except as
enforcement may be limited by equitable principles and by bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws relating to creditors'
rights generally), (iii) do not violate Borrower's articles or certificate of
incorporation, or Borrower's by-laws, or any law or any material agreement or
instrument which is binding upon Borrower or its property, and (iv) do not
constitute grounds for acceleration of any material indebtedness or obligation
under any material agreement or instrument which is binding upon Borrower or its
property.
3.2 NAME; TRADE NAMES AND STYLES. The name of Borrower set forth in the
heading to this Agreement is its correct name Listed on the Schedule are all
prior names of Borrower and all of Borrower's present and prior trade names.
Borrower shall give GBC 30 days' prior written notice before changing its name
or doing business under any other name. Borrower has complied, and will in the
future comply, with all laws relating to the conduct of business under a
fictitious business name.
3.3 PLACE OF BUSINESS; LOCATION OF COLLATERAL. The address set forth in the
heading to this Agreement is Borrower's chief executive office. In addition,
Borrower has places of business and Collateral is located only at the locations
set forth on the Schedule. Borrower will give GBC at least 30 days prior written
notice before opening any additional place of business, changing its chief
executive office, or moving any of the Collateral to a location other than
Borrower's Address or one of the locations set forth on the Schedule.
3.4 TITLE TO COLLATERAL; PERMITTED LIENS. Borrower is now, and will at all
times in the future be, the sole owner of all the Collateral, except for items
of Equipment which are leased by Borrower. The Collateral now is and will remain
free and clear of any and all liens, charges, security interests, encumbrances
and adverse claims, except for Permitted Liens. GBC now has, and will continue
to have, a first-priority perfected and enforceable security interest in all of
the Collateral, subject only to the Permitted Liens, and Borrower will at all
times defend GBC and the Collateral against all claims of others. So long as any
Loan is outstanding which is a term loan, none of the Collateral now is or will
be affixed to any real property in such a manner, or with such intent, as to
become a fixture. Borrower is not and will not become a lessee under any real
property lease pursuant to which the lessor may obtain any rights in any of the
Collateral and no such lease now prohibits, restrains, impairs or will prohibit,
restrain or impair Borrower's right to remove any Collateral from the leased
premises. Whenever any Collateral is located upon premises in which any third
party has an interest (whether as owner, mortgagee, beneficiary under a deed of
trust, lien or otherwise), Borrower shall, whenever requested by GBC, use its
best efforts to cause such third party to execute and deliver to GBC, in form
acceptable to GBC, such waivers and subordinations as GBC shall specify, so as
to ensure that GBC's rights in the Collateral are, and will continue to be,
superior to the rights of any such third party. Borrower will keep in full force
and effect, and will comply with all the terms of, any lease of real property
where any of the Collateral now or in the future may be located.
3.5 MAINTENANCE OF COLLATERAL. Borrower will maintain the Collateral in good
working condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted, and Borrower will not use
the Collateral for any unlawful purpose. Borrower will immediately advise GBC in
writing of any material loss or damage to the Collateral.
3.6 BOOKS AND RECORDS. Borrower has maintained and will maintain at
Borrower's Address complete and accurate books and records, comprising an
accounting system in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
3.7 FINANCIAL CONDITION, STATEMENTS AND REPORTS. All financial statements now
or in the future delivered to GBC have been, and will be, prepared in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles and now and in the future will
completely and fairly reflect the financial condition of Borrower, at the times
and for the periods therein stated. Between the last date covered by any such
statement provided to GBC and the date hereof, there has been no material
adverse change in the financial condition or business of Borrower. Borrower is
now and will continue to be solvent.
3.8 TAX RETURNS AND PAYMENTS; PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS. Borrower has timely
filed, and will timely file, all tax returns and reports required by applicable
law, and Borrower has timely paid, and will timely pay, all applicable taxes,
assessments, deposits and contributions now or in the future owed by Borrower.
Borrower may, however, defer payment of any contested
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taxes, provided that Borrower (i) in good faith contests Borrower's obligation
to pay the taxes by appropriate proceedings promptly and diligently instituted
and conducted, (ii) notifies GBC in writing of the commencement of, and any
material development in, the proceedings, and (iii) posts bonds or takes any
other steps required to keep the contested taxes from becoming a lien upon any
of the Collateral. Borrower is unaware of any claims or adjustments proposed for
any of Borrower's prior tax years which could result in additional taxes
becoming due and payable by Borrower. Borrower has paid, and shall continue to
pay all amounts necessary to fund all present and future pension, profit sharing
and deferred compensation plans in accordance with their terms, and Borrower has
not and will not withdraw from participation in, permit partial or complete
termination of, or permit the occurrence of any other event with respect to, any
such plan which could result in any liability of Borrower, including any
liability to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any other governmental
agency. Borrower shall, at all times, utilize the services of an outside payroll
service providing for the automatic deposit of all payroll taxes payable by
Borrower.
3.9 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. Borrower has complied, and will comply, in all
material respects, with all provisions of all applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, those relating to Borrower's ownership of real or
personal property, the conduct and licensing of Borrower's business, and all
environmental matters.
3.10 LITIGATION. Except as disclosed in the Schedule, there is no claim,
suit, litigation, proceeding or investigation pending or (to best of Borrower's
knowledge) threatened by or against or affecting Borrower in any court or before
any governmental agency (or any basis therefor known to Borrower) which may
result, either separately or in the aggregate, in any material adverse change in
the financial condition or business of Borrower, or in any material impairment
in the ability of Borrower to carry on its business in substantially the same
manner as it is now being conducted. Borrower will promptly inform GBC in
writing of any claim, proceeding, litigation or investigation in the future
threatened or instituted by or against Borrower involving any single claim of
$50,000 or more, or involving $100,000 or more in the aggregate.
3.11 USE OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds of all Loans shall be used solely for
lawful business purposes.
4. RECEIVABLES.
4.1 REPRESENTATIONS RELATING TO RECEIVABLES. Borrower represents and warrants
to GBC as follows: Each Receivable * with respect to which Loans are requested
by Borrower shall, on the date each Loan is requested and made, (i) represent an
undisputed, bona fide, existing, unconditional obligation of the Account Debtor
created by the sale, delivery, and acceptance of goods or the rendition of
services, in the ordinary course of Borrower's business **, and (ii) meet the
eligibility requirements set forth in Section 8 below.
* AND EACH NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE
** OR, WITH RESPECT TO THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES, THE BUSINESS OF SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V.,
4.2 REPRESENTATIONS RELATING TO DOCUMENTS AND LEGAL COMPLIANCE. Borrower
represents and warrants to GBC as follows: All statements made and all unpaid
balances appearing in all invoices, instruments and other documents evidencing
the Receivables * are and shall be true and correct and all such invoices,
instruments and other documents and all of Borrower's ** books and records are
and shall be genuine and in all respects what they purport to be, and all
signatories and endorsers have the capacity to contract. All sales and other
transactions underlying or giving rise to each Receivable *** shall comply with
all applicable laws and governmental rules and regulations. All signatures and
indorsements on all documents, instruments, and agreements relating to all
Receivables * are and shall be genuine, and all such documents, instruments and
agreements are and shall be legally enforceable in accordance with their terms.
* AND THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
** AND SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.'S
*** AND TO EACH NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE
4.3 SCHEDULES AND DOCUMENTS RELATING TO RECEIVABLES. Borrower shall deliver
to GBC transaction reports and loan requests, schedules and assignments of all
Receivables, and schedules of collections, * all on GBC's standard forms;
provided, however, that Borrower's ** failure to execute and deliver the same
shall not affect or limit GBC's security interest and other rights in all of
Borrower's Receivables ***, nor shall GBC's failure to advance or lend against a
specific Receivable **** affect or limit GBC's security interest and other
rights therein. Together with each such schedule and assignment, or later if
requested by GBC, Borrower shall furnish GBC with copies (or, at GBC's request,
originals) of all contracts, orders, invoices, and other similar documents, and
all original shipping instructions, delivery receipts, bills of lading, and
other evidence of delivery, for any goods the sale or disposition of which gave
rise to such Receivables**, and Borrower warrants the genuineness of all of the
foregoing. Borrower shall also furnish to GBC an aged accounts receivable trial
balance in such form
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and at such intervals as GBC shall request. In addition, Borrower shall deliver
to GBC the originals of all instruments, chattel paper, security agreements,
guarantees and other documents and property evidencing or securing any
Receivables **, immediately upon receipt thereof and in the same form as
received, with all necessary indorsements.
* AND, WITH RESPECT TO THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES, BORROWER SHALL CAUSE
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. TO DELIVER TO GBC TRANSACTION REPORTS, SCHEDULES AND
ASSIGNMENTS OF ALL NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES AND SCHEDULES OF COLLECTIONS,
** OR SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.'S
*** OR THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
**** OR A NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE
4.4 COLLECTION OF RECEIVABLES. Borrower shall have the right to collect all
Receivables *, unless and until a Default or an Event of Default has occurred.
Borrower shall hold all payments on, and proceeds of, Receivables in trust for
GBC, and Borrower shall deliver all such payments and proceeds to GBC, within
one business day after receipt of the same, in their original form, duly
endorsed, to be applied to the Obligations in such order as GBC shall determine.
**
* AND ALL NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
** SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO COLLECT ALL NETHERLANDS
RECEIVABLES, UNLESS AND UNTIL A DEFAULT OR AN EVENT OF DEFAULT HAS OCCURRED.
4.5 DISPUTES. Borrower shall notify GBC promptly of all disputes or claims
relating to Receivables * on the regular reports to GBC. Borrower shall not
forgive, or settle any Receivable for less than payment in full, or agree to do
any of the foregoing, except that Borrower may do so, provided that: (i)
Borrower does so in good faith, in a commercially reasonable manner, in the
ordinary course of business, and in arm's length transactions, which are
reported to GBC on the regular reports provided to GBC; (ii) no Default or Event
of Default has occurred and is continuing; and (iii) taking into account all
such settlements and forgiveness, the total outstanding Loans and other
Obligations will not exceed the Credit Limit.
* OR NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
** BORROWER SHALL CAUSE SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. NOT TO FORGIVE, OR SETTLE ANY
NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE FOR ________________________ OR AGREE TO DO ANY OF THE
FOREGOING, EXCEPT THAT BORROWER MAY PERMIT SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. TO DO SO,
PROVIDED THAT: (I) SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. DOES SO IN GOOD FAITH, IN A
COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE MANNER, IN THE ORDINARY COURSE OF BUSINESS, AND IN ARM'S
LENGTH TRANSACTIONS, WHICH ARE REPORTED TO GBC ON THE REGULAR REPORTS PROVIDED
TO GBC; (II) NO DEFAULT OR EVENT OF DEFAULT HAS OCCURRED AND IS CONTINUING; AND
(III) TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ALL SUCH SETTLEMENTS AND FORGIVENESS, THE TOTAL
OUTSTANDING LOANS AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS WILL NOT EXCEED THE CREDIT LIMIT.
4.6 RETURNS. Provided no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, if
any Account Debtor returns any Inventory to Borrower * in the ordinary course of
its business, Borrower shall promptly determine the reason for such return and
promptly issue a credit memorandum to the Account Debtor in the appropriate
amount (sending a copy to GBC). In the event any attempted return occurs after
the occurrence of any Event of Default, Borrower shall (i) not accept any return
without GBC's prior written consent, (ii) hold the returned Inventory in trust
for GBC (iii) segregate all returned Inventory from all of Borrower's other
property, (iv) conspicuously label the returned Inventory as GBC's property,
and (v) immediately notify GBC of the return of any Inventory, specifying the
reason for such return, the location and condition of the returned Inventory,
and on GBC's request deliver such returned Inventory to GBC. **
* OR ANY INVENTORY TO SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.
** IN THE EVENT ANY ATTEMPTED RETURN OCCURS AFTER THE OCCURRENCE OF ANY EVENT
OF DEFAULT, BORROWER SHALL CAUSE SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. (I) NOT ACCEPT ANY
RETURN WITHOUT GBC'S PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT, (II) HOLD THE RETURNED INVENTORY IN
TRUST FOR GBC, (III) SEGREGATE ALL RETURNED INVENTORY FROM ALL OF SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V.'S OTHER PROPERTY, (IV) CONSPICUOUSLY LABEL THE RETURNED
INVENTORY AS GBC'S PROPERTY, AND (V) IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY GBC OF THE RETURN OF ANY
INVENTORY, SPECIFYING THE REASON FOR SUCH RETURN, THE LOCATION AND CONDITION OF
THE RETURNED INVENTORY, AND ON GBC'S REQUEST DELIVER SUCH RETURNED INVENTORY TO
GBC.
4.7 VERIFICATION. GBC may, from time to time, verify directly with the
respective Account Debtors the validity, amount and other matters relating to
the Receivables *, by means of mail, telephone or otherwise, either in the name
of Borrower or GBC or such other name as GBC may choose, and GBC or its designee
may, at any time, notify Account Debtors that it has a security interest in the
Receivables*.
* AND THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES, IN EACH CASE ON AND AFTER AN EVENT OF
DEFAULT
4.8 NO LIABILITY. GBC shall not under any circumstances be responsible or
liable for any shortage or discrepancy in, damage to, or loss or destruction of,
any goods, the sale or other disposition of which gives rise to a Receivable *,
or for any error, act, omission, or delay of any kind occurring in the
settlement, failure to settle, collection or failure to collect any Receivable
*, or for settling any Receivable * in good faith for less than the full amount
thereof, nor shall GBC be deemed to
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be responsible for any of Borrower's obligations under any contract or agreement
giving rise to a Receivable **. Nothing herein shall, however, relieve GBC from
liability for its own gross negligence or willful misconduct.
* OR A NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE
** OR ANY OF THE OBLIGATIONS OF SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. UNDER ANY CONTRACT OR
AGREEMENT GIVING RISE TO A NR
5. ADDITIONAL DUTIES OF THE BORROWER.
5.1 INSURANCE. Borrower shall, at all times, insure all of the tangible
personal property Collateral and carry such other business insurance, with
insurers reasonably acceptable to GBC in such form and amounts as GBC may
reasonably require, and Borrower shall provide evidence of such insurance to
GBC, so that GBC is satisfied that such insurance is, at all times, in full
force and effect. All such insurance policies shall name GBC as an additional
loss payee, and shall contain a lenders loss payee endorsement in form
reasonably acceptable to GBC. Upon receipt of the proceeds of any such
insurance, GBC shall apply such proceeds in reduction of the Obligations as GBC
shall determine in its sole discretion, except that, provided no Default or
Event of Default has occurred and is continuing. GBC shall release to Borrower
insurance proceeds with respect to Equipment totaling less than $100,000, which
shall be utilized by Borrower for the replacement of the Equipment with respect
to which the insurance proceeds were paid. GBC may require reasonable assurance
that the insurance proceeds so released will be so used. If Borrower fails to
provide or pay for any insurance, GBC may, but is not obligated to, obtain the
same at Borrower's expense. Borrower shall promptly deliver to GBC copies of all
reports made to insurance companies.
5.2 REPORTS. Borrower, at its expense, shall provide GBC with the written
reports set forth in the Schedule, and such other written reports with respect
to Borrower (including budgets, sales projections, operating plans and other
financial documentation), as GBC shall from time to time reasonably specify.
5.3 ACCESS TO COLLATERAL, BOOKS AND RECORDS. At reasonable times, and on one
business day's notice, GBC, or its agents, shall have the right to inspect the
Collateral, and the right to audit and copy Borrower's books and records *. GBC
shall take reasonable steps to keep confidential all information obtained in any
such inspection or audit **, but GBC shall have the right to disclose any such
information to its auditors, regulatory agencies, and attorneys, and pursuant to
any subpoena or other legal process. *** be done more frequently than four times
per calendar year, provided that the foregoing limits shall not apply after the
occurrence of a Default or Event of Default. Borrower will not enter into any
agreement with any accounting firm, service bureau or third party to store
Borrower's books or records at any location other than Borrower's Address,
without first obtaining GBC's written consent, which may be conditioned upon
such accounting firm, service bureau or other third party agreeing to give GBC
the same rights with respect to access to books and records and related rights
as GBC has under this Agreement.
* AND THE BOOKS AND RECORDS OF SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.
** AND SUCH OTHER INFORMATION AS BORROWER SUPPLIES TO GBC PURSUANT TO THIS
AGREEMENT
*** AUDITS SHALL NOT
5.4 REMITTANCE OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds arising from the sale or other
disposition of any Collateral shall be delivered, in kind, by Borrower to GBC in
the original form in which received by Borrower not later than the following
business day after receipt by Borrower, to be applied to the Obligations in such
order as GBC shall determine; provided that, if no Default or Event of Default
has occurred and is continuing, and if no term loan is outstanding hereunder,
then Borrower shall not be obligated to remit to GBC the proceeds of the sale of
Equipment which is sold in the ordinary course of business, in a good-faith
arm's length transaction. Except for the proceeds of the sale of Equipment as
set forth above, Borrower shall not commingle proceeds of Collateral with any of
Borrower's other funds or property, and shall hold such proceeds separate and
apart from such other funds and property and in an express trust for GBC.
Nothing in this Section limits the restrictions on disposition of Collateral set
forth elsewhere in this Agreement.
5.5 NEGATIVE COVENANTS. Except as may be permitted in the Schedule, Borrower
shall not, without GBC's prior written consent, do any of the following: (i)
merge or consolidate with another corporation or entity; (ii) acquire any
assets, except in the ordinary course of business; (iii) enter into any other
transaction outside the ordinary course of business; (iv) sell or transfer any
Collateral, except that, provided no Default or Event of Default has occurred
and is continuing, Borrower may (a) sell finished Inventory in the ordinary
course of Borrower's business, and (b) if no term loan is outstanding hereunder,
sell Equipment in the ordinary course of business, in good-faith arm's length
transactions; (vi) sell any inventory on a sale-or-return, guaranteed sale,
consignment, or other contingent basis; (vii) make any loans of any money or
other assets; (viii) incur any debts, outside the ordinary course of business,
which would have a material, adverse effect on Borrower or on the prospect of
repayment of the Obligations; (ix) guarantee or otherwise become liable with
respect to the obligations of another party or entity; (x) pay or declare any
dividends on Borrower's stock (except for dividends payable solely in stock of
Borrower); (xi)
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redeem, retire, purchase or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any of
Borrower's stock; (xii) make any change in Borrower's capital structure which
would have a material adverse effect on Borrower or on the prospect of repayment
of the Obligations; or (xiii) dissolve or elect to dissolve; or (xiv) agree to
do any of the foregoing.
5.6 LITIGATION COOPERATION. Should any third-party suit or proceeding be
instituted by or against GBC with respect to any Collateral or in any manner
relating to Borrower, Borrower shall, without expense to GBC make available
Borrower and its officers, employees and agents, and Borrower's books and
records, without charge, to the extent that GBC may deem them reasonably
necessary in order to prosecute or defend any such suit or proceeding.
5.7 NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES. Borrower will promptly notify GBC in writing of
any change in its officers or directors, the opening of any new bank account or
other deposit account, and any material adverse change in the business or
financial affairs of Borrower.
5.8 FURTHER ASSURANCES. Borrower agrees, at its expense, on request by GBC,
to execute all documents and take all actions, as GBC may deem reasonably
necessary or useful in order to perfect and maintain GBC's perfected security
interest in the Collateral, and in order to fully consummate the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
5.9 INDEMNITY. Borrower hereby agrees to indemnify GBC and hold GBC harmless
from and against any and all claims, debts, liabilities, demands, obligations,
actions, causes of action, penalties, costs and expenses (including attorneys'
fees), of every nature, character and description, which GBC may sustain or
incur based upon or arising out of any of the Obligations, any actual or alleged
failure to collect and pay over any withholding or other tax relating to
Borrower or its employees, any relationship or agreement between GBC and
Borrower, any actual or alleged failure of GBC to comply with any writ of
attachment or other legal process relating to Borrower or any of its property,
or any other matter, cause or thing whatsoever occurred, done, omitted or
suffered to be done by GBC relating to Borrower or the Obligations (except any
such amounts sustained or incurred as the result of the gross negligence or
willful misconduct of GBC or any of its directors, officers, employees, agents,
attorneys, or any other person affiliated with or representing GBC).
Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, the indemnity
agreement set forth in this Section shall survive any termination of this
Agreement and shall for all purposes continue in full force and effect.
6. TERM.
6.1 MATURITY DATE. This Agreement shall continue in effect until the maturity
date set forth on the Schedule (the "Maturity Date"); provided that the Maturity
Date shall automatically be extended, and this Agreement shall automatically and
continuously renew, for successive additional terms of one year each, unless one
party gives written notice to the other, not less than sixty days prior to the
next Maturity Date, that such party elects to terminate this Agreement effective
on the next Maturity Date.
6.2 EARLY TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated prior to the
Maturity Date as follows: (i) by Borrower, effective three business days after
written notice of termination is given to GBC or (ii) by GBC at any time after
the occurrence of an Event of Default, without notice, effective immediately. If
this Agreement is terminated by Borrower or by GBC under this Section 6.2.
Borrower shall pay to GBC a termination fee (the "Termination Fee") in the
amount shown on the Schedule. The Termination Fee shall be due and payable on
the effective date of termination and thereafter shall bear interest at a rate
equal to the highest rate applicable to any of the Obligations.
6.3 PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. On the Maturity Date or on any earlier effective
date of termination, Borrower shall pay and perform in full all Obligations,
whether evidenced by installment notes or otherwise, and whether or not all or
any part of such Obligations are otherwise then due and payable. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, if on the Maturity Date, or on any
earlier effective date of termination, there are any outstanding letters of
credit issued based upon an application, guarantee, indemnity or similar
agreement on the part of GBC, then on such date Borrower shall provide to GBC
cash collateral in an amount equal to 110% of the face amount of all such
letters of credit plus all interest, fees and costs due or (in GBC's estimation)
likely to become due in connection therewith, to secure all of the Obligations
relating to said letters of credit, pursuant to GBC's then standard form cash
pledge agreement. Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement, all of
GBC's security interests in all of the Collateral and all of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until all
Obligations have been paid and performed in full; provided that, without
limiting the fact that Loans are subject to the discretion of GBC. GBC may, in
its sole discretion, refuse to make any further Loans after termination. No
termination shall in any way affect or impair any right or remedy of GBC, nor
shall any such termination relieve Borrower of any Obligation to GBC, until all
of the Obligations have been paid and performed in full. Upon payment and
performance in
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full of all the Obligations and termination of this Agreement, GBC shall
promptly deliver to Borrower termination statements, requests for reconveyances
and such other documents as may be reasonably required to terminate GBC's
security interests.
7. EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES.
7.1 EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events shall
constitute an "Event of Default" under this Agreement, and Borrower shall give
GBC immediate written notice thereof, (a) Any warranty, representation,
statement, report or certificate made or delivered to GBC by Borrower or any of
Borrower's officers, employees or agents, now or in the future, shall be untrue
or misleading in a material respect; or (b) Borrower shall fail to pay when due
any Loan or any interest thereon or any other monetary Obligation; or (c) the
total Loans and other Obligations outstanding at any time shall exceed the
Credit Limit; or (d) Borrower shall fail to perform any non-monetary Obligation
which by its nature cannot be cured; or (e) Borrower shall fail to perform any
other non-monetary Obligation, which failure is not cured within 5 * business
days after the date performance is due; or (f) any levy, assessment, attachment,
seizure, lien or encumbrance (other than a Permitted Lien) is made on all or any
part of the Collateral which is not cured within 10 days after the occurrence of
the same; or (g) any default or event of default occurs under any obligation
secured by a Permitted Lien, which is not cured within any applicable cure
period or waived in writing by the holder of the Permitted Lien; or (h) Borrower
breaches any material contract or obligation, which has or may reasonably be
expected to have a material adverse effect on Borrower's business or financial
condition; or (i) dissolution, termination of existence, insolvency or business
failure of Borrower or any Guarantor; or appointment of a receiver, trustee or
custodian, for all or any part of the property of, assignment for the benefit of
creditors by, or the commencement of any proceeding by Borrower or any Guarantor
under any reorganization, bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement, readjustment of
debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute of any jurisdiction, now or in
the future in effect; or (j) the commencement of any proceeding against Borrower
or any Guarantor under any reorganization, bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement,
readjustment of debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute of any
jurisdiction, now or in the future in effect, which is not cured by the
dismissal thereof within 45 days after the date commenced; or (k) revocation or
termination of, or limitation or denial of liability upon, any guaranty of the
Obligations or any attempt to do any of the foregoing; or (l) revocation or
termination of, or limitation or denial of liability upon, any pledge of any
certificate of deposit, securities or other property or asset pledged by any
third party to secure any or all of the Obligations, or any attempt to do any of
the foregoing, or commencement of proceedings by or against any such third party
under any bankruptcy or insolvency law; or (m) Borrower makes any payment on
account of any indebtedness or obligation which has been subordinated to the
Obligations other than as permitted in the applicable subordination agreement,
or if any Person who has subordinated such indebtedness or obligations
terminates or in any way limits or terminates its subordination agreement; or
(n) there shall be a change in the record or beneficial ownership of an
aggregate of more than of the outstanding shares of stock of Borrower, in one or
more transactions, compared to the ownership of outstanding shares of stock of
Borrower in effect on the date hereof, without the prior written consent of GBC;
or (o) Borrower shall generally not pay its debts as they become due, or
Borrower shall conceal, remove or transfer any part of its property, with intent
to hinder, delay or defraud its creditors, or make or suffer any transfer of any
of its property which may be fraudulent under any bankruptcy, fraudulent
conveyance or similar law; or (p) there shall be a material adverse change in
Borrower's business or financial condition **. GBC may cease making any Loans
hereunder during any of the above cure periods, and thereafter if an Event of
Default has occurred.
* 10
** OR (Q) THERE SHALL OCCUR A DEFAULT OR AN EVENT OF DEFAULT UNDER THE GUARANTY
OF EVEN DATE HEREWITH BETWEEN SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. IN FAVOR OF GBC OR UNDER
THE SECURITY AGREEMENT OF EVEN DATE HEREWITH BETWEEN SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. IN
FAVOR OF GBC.
7.2 REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of
Default, and at any time thereafter, GBC, at its option, and without notice or
demand of any kind (all of which are hereby expressly waived by Borrower), may
do any one or more of the following: (a) Cease making Loans or otherwise
extending credit to Borrower under this Agreement or any other document or
agreement; (b) Accelerate and declare all or any part of the Obligations to be
immediately due, payable, and performable, notwithstanding any deferred or
installment payments allowed by any instrument evidencing or relating to any
Obligation; (c) Take possession of any or all of the Collateral wherever it may
be found, and for that purpose Borrower hereby authorizes GBC without judicial
process to enter onto any of Borrower's premises without interference to search
for, take possession of, keep, store, or remove any of the Collateral, and
remain on the premises or cause a custodian to remain on the premises in
exclusive control thereof, without charge for so long as GBC deems it reasonably
necessary in order to complete the enforcement of its rights under this
Agreement or any other agreement; provided, however, that should GBC seek to
take possession of any of the Collateral by Court process, Borrower hereby
irrevocably waives: (i) any bond and any surety or security relating thereto
required by any statute, court rule or otherwise as an incident to such
Possession; (ii) any demand for possession prior to the commencement of any suit
or action to recover possession thereof; and (iii) any requirement that GBC
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retain possession of, and not dispose of, any such Collateral until after trial
or final judgment; (d) Require Borrower to assemble any or all of the Collateral
and make it available to GBC at places designated by GBC which are reasonably
convenient to GBC and Borrower, and to remove the Collateral to such locations
as GBC may deem advisable; (e) Complete the processing, manufacturing or repair
of any Collateral prior to a disposition thereof and, for such purpose and for
the purpose of removal, GBC shall have the right to use Borrower's premises,
vehicles, hoists, lifts, cranes, equipment and all other property without
charge; (f) Sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any of the Collateral, in its
condition at the time GBC obtains possession of it or after further
manufacturing, processing or repair, at one or more public and/or private sales,
in lots or in bulk, for cash, exchange or other property, or on credit, and to
adjourn any such sale from time to time without notice other than oral
announcement at the time scheduled for sale. GBC shall have the right to conduct
such disposition on Borrower's premises without charge, for such time or times
as GBC deems reasonable, or on GBC's premises, or elsewhere and the Collateral
need not be located at the place of disposition. GBC may directly or through any
affiliated company purchase or lease any Collateral at any such public
disposition, and if permissible under applicable law, at any private
disposition. Any sale or other disposition of Collateral shall not relieve
Borrower of any liability Borrower may have if any Collateral is defective as to
title or physical condition or otherwise at the time of sale; (g) Demand payment
of, and collect any Receivables and General Intangibles comprising Collateral
and, in connection therewith, Borrower irrevocably authorizes GBC to endorse or
sign Borrower's name on all collections, receipts, instruments and other
documents, to take possession of and open mail addressed to Borrower and remove
therefrom payments made with respect to any item of the Collateral or proceeds
thereof, and, in GBC's sole discretion, to grant extensions of time to pay,
compromise claims and settle Receivables, General Intangibles and the like for
less than face value; and (h) Demand and receive possession of any of Borrower's
federal and state income tax returns and the books and records utilized in the
preparation thereof or referring thereto. All reasonable attorneys' fees,
expenses, costs, liabilities and obligations incurred by GBC with respect to the
foregoing shall be added to and become part of the Obligations, shall be due on
demand, and shall bear interest at a rate equal to the highest interest rate
applicable to any of the Obligations.
7.3 STANDARDS FOR DETERMINING COMMERCIAL REASONABLENESS. Borrower and GBC
agree that a sale or other disposition (collectively, "sale") of any Collateral
which complies with the following standards will conclusively be deemed to be
commercially reasonable: (i) Notice of the sale is given to Borrower at least
seven days prior to the sale, and, in the case of a public sale, notice of the
sale is published at least seven days before the sale in a newspaper of general
circulation in the county where the sale is to be conducted; (ii) Notice of the
sale describes the collateral in general, non-specific terms; (iii) The sale is
conducted at a place designated by GBC, with or without the Collateral being
present; (iv) The sale commences at any time between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m; (v)
Payment of the purchase price in cash or by cashier's check or wire transfer is
required; (vi) With respect to any sale of any of the Collateral. GBC may (but
is not obligated to) direct any prospective purchaser to ascertain directly from
Borrower any and all information concerning the same. GBC shall be free to
employ other methods of noticing and selling the Collateral, in its discretion,
if they are commercially reasonable.
7.4 POWER OF ATTORNEY. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any
Event of Default, without limiting GBC's other rights and remedies, Borrower
grants to GBC an irrevocable power of attorney coupled with an interest,
authorizing and permitting GBC (acting through any of its employees, attorneys
or agents) at any time, at its option, but without obligation, with or without
notice to Borrower, and at Borrower's expense, to do any or all of the
following, in Borrower's name or otherwise, but GBC agrees to exercise the
following powers in a commercially reasonable manner: (a) Execute on behalf of
Borrower any documents that GBC may, in its sole discretion, deem advisable in
order to perfect and maintain GBC's security interest in the Collateral, or in
order to exercise a right of Borrower or GBC, or in order to fully consummate
all the transactions contemplated under this Agreement, and all other present
and future agreements; (b) Execute on behalf of Borrower any document
exercising, transferring or assigning any option to purchase, sell or otherwise
dispose of or to lease (as lessor or lessee) any real or personal property which
is part of GBC's Collateral or in which GBC has an interest; (c) Execute on
behalf of Borrower, any invoices relating to any Receivable, any draft against
any Account Debtor and any notice to any Account Debtor, any proof of claim in
bankruptcy, any Notice of Lien, claim of mechanic's, materialman's or other
lien, or assignment or satisfaction of mechanic's, materialman's or other lien;
(d) Take control in any manner of any cash or non-cash items of payment or
proceeds of Collateral; endorse the name of Borrower upon any instruments, or
documents, evidence of payment or Collateral that may come into GBC's
possession; (e) Endorse all checks and other forms of remittances received by
GBC; (f) Pay, contest or settle any lien, charge, encumbrance, security interest
and adverse claim in or to any of the Collateral, or any judgment based thereon,
or otherwise take any action to terminate or discharge the same; (g) Grant
extensions of time to pay, compromise claims and settle Receivables and General
Intangibles for less than face value and execute all releases and other
documents in connection therewith; (h) Pay any sums required on account of
Borrowers taxes or to secure the release of any liens therefor, or both; (i)
Settle and adjust, and give releases of, any insurance claim that relates to any
of the Collateral and obtain payment therefor; (j) Instruct any third party
having custody or control of any books or records belonging to, or relating to,
Borrower to give GBC the same rights of access and other rights with respect
thereto as GBC has under this Agreement; and (k) Take any action or pay any sum
required of Borrower pursuant to this Agreement and any other present or
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future agreements. Any and all reasonable sums paid and any and all reasonable
costs, expenses, liabilities, obligations and reasonable attorneys' fees
incurred by GBC with respect to the foregoing shall be added to and become part
of the Obligations, shall be payable on demand, and shall bear interest at a
rate equal to the highest interest rate applicable to any of the Obligations. In
no event shall GBC's rights under the foregoing power of attorney or any of
GBC's other rights under this Agreement be deemed to indicate that GBC is in
control of the business, management or properties of Borrower.
7.5 APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds realized as the result of any sale
or other disposition of the Collateral shall be applied by GBC first to the
reasonable costs, Expenses, liabilities, obligations and attorneys' fees
incurred by GBC in the exercise of its rights under this Agreement, second to
the interest due upon any of the Obligations, and third to the principal of the
Obligations, in such order as GBC shall determine in its sole discretion. Any
surplus shall be paid to Borrower or other persons legally entitled thereto;
Borrower shall remain liable to GBC for any deficiency. If GBC, in its sole
discretion, directly or indirectly enters into a deferred payment or other
credit transaction with any purchaser at any sale of Collateral, GBC shall have
the option, exercisable at any time, in its sole discretion, of either reducing
the Obligations by the principal amount of purchase price or deferring the
reduction of the Obligations until the actual receipt by GBC of the cash
therefor.
7.6 REMEDIES CUMULATIVE. In addition to the rights and remedies set forth in
this Agreement, GBC shall have all the other rights and remedies accorded a
secured party under the California Uniform Commercial Code and under all other
applicable laws, and under any other instrument or agreement now or in the
future entered into between GBC and Borrower, and all of such rights and
remedies are cumulative and none is exclusive. Exercise or partial exercise by
GBC of one or more of its rights or remedies shall not be deemed an election,
nor bar GBC from subsequent exercise or partial exercise of any other rights or
remedies. The failure or delay of GBC to exercise any rights or remedies shall
not operate as a waiver thereof, but all rights and remedies shall continue in
full force and effect until all of the Obligations have been fully paid and
performed.
8. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the
following meanings:
"Account Debtor" means the obligor on a Receivable *.
* OR A NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLE
"Affiliate" means, with respect to any Person, a relative, partner,
shareholder, director, officer, or employee of such Person, or any parent or
subsidiary of such Person, or any Person controlling, controlled by or under
common control with such Person.
"Agreement" and "this Agreement" means this Loan and Security Agreement and
all modifications and amendments thereto extensions thereof, and replacements
therefor.
"Business Day" means a day on which GBC is open for business.
"Code" means the Uniform Commercial Code as adopted and in effect in the State
of California from time to time.
"Collateral" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 above.
"Default" means any event which with notice or passage of time or both would
constitute an Event of Default.
"Deposit Account" has the meaning set forth in Section 9105 of the Code.
"Eligible Inventory" means Inventory which GBC, in its sole judgment, deems
eligible for borrowing, based on such considerations as GBC may from time to
time deem appropriate. Without limiting the fact that the determination of
which Inventory is eligible for borrowing is a matter of GBC's discretion.
Inventory which does not meet the following requirements will not be deemed to
be Eligible Inventory: Inventory which (i) consists of finished goods, in good,
new and salable condition which is not perishable, not obsolete or
unmerchantable, and is not comprised of raw materials, work in process,
packaging materials or supplies; (ii) meets all applicable governmental
standards; (iii) has been manufactured in compliance with the Fair Labor
Standards Act; (iv) conforms in all respects to the warranties and
representations set forth in this Agreement; (v) is at all times subject to
GBC's duly perfected, first priority security interest; and (vii) is situated at
Borrower's Address or at one of Borrower's other locations set forth on the
Schedule.
"Eligible Receivables" means unconditional Receivables arising in the ordinary
course of Borrower's business ** from the completed sale of goods or rendition
of services, which GBC, in its sole judgment, shall deem eligible for borrowing,
based on such considerations as GBC may from time to time deem appropriate ***.
* AND NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
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** AND, WITH RESPECT TO THE NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES, UNCONDITIONAL NETHERLANDS
RECEIVABLES ARISING IN THE ORDINARY COURSE OF SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.'S
BUSINESS, IN EACH CASE
*** INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, WITH RESPECT TO THE NETHERLANDS
RECEIVABLES, THAT THE GUARANTY AND SECURITY DOCUMENTATION AND ACTIONS (AS
DEFINED IN THE SCHEDULE HERETO) HAVE BEEN EXECUTED AND TAKEN, AS APPLICABLE
"Equipment" means all of Borrower's present and here-after acquired machinery,
molds, machine tools, motors, furniture, equipment, furnishings, fixtures, trade
fixtures, motor vehicles, tools, parts, dyes, jigs, goods and other tangible
personal property (other than Inventory) of every kind and description used in
Borrower's operations or owned by Borrower and any interest in any of the
foregoing, and all attachments, accessories, accessions, replacements
substitutions, additions or improvements to any of the foregoing, wherever
located.
"Event of Default" means any of the events set forth in Section 7.1 of this
Agreement.
"General Intangibles" means all general intangibles of Borrower, whether now
owned or hereafter created or acquired by Borrower, including, without
limitation, all choses in action, causes of action, corporate or other business
records. Deposit Accounts, inventions, designs, drawings, blueprints, patents,
patent applications, trademarks and the goodwill of the business symbolized
thereby, names, trade names, trade secrets, goodwill, copyrights, registrations,
licenses, franchises, customer lists, security and other deposits, rights in all
litigation presently or hereafter pending for any cause or claim (whether in
contract, tort or otherwise), and all judgments now or hereafter arising
therefrom, all claims of Borrower against GBC, rights to purchase or sell real
or personal property, rights as a licensor or licensee of any kind, royalties,
telephone numbers, proprietary information, purchase orders, and all insurance
policies and claims (including life insurance, key man insurance, credit
insurance, liability insurance, property insurance and other insurance), tax
refunds and claims, computer programs, discs, tapes and tape files, claims under
guaranties, security interests or other security held by or granted to Borrower,
all rights to indemnification and all other intangible property of every kind
and nature (other than Receivables).
"Guarantor" means any Person who has guaranteed any of the Obligations.
"Inventory" means all of Borrower's now owned and hereafter acquired goods,
merchandise or other personal property wherever located, to be furnished under
any contract of service or held for sale or lease (including all raw materials,
work in process, finished goods and goods in transit), and all materials and
supplies of every kind, nature and description which are or might be used or
consumed in Borrower's business or used in connection with the manufacture,
packing, shipping, advertising, selling or finishing of such goods, merchandise
or other personal property, and all warehouse receipts, documents of title and
other documents representing any of the foregoing.
"LIBOR Rate" means (i) the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate for
deposits in U.S. dollars, as shown each day in The Wall Street Journal (Eastern
Edition) under the caption "Money Rates - London Interbank Offered Rates
(LIBOR)"; or (ii) if the Wall Street Journal does not publish such rate, the
offered one-month rate for deposits in U.S. dollars which appears on the Reuters
Screen LIBO Page as of 10:00 a.m., New York time, each day, provided that if at
least two rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page on any day, the "LIBOR
Rate" for such day shall be the arithmetic mean of such rates; or (iii) if the
Wall Street Journal does not publish such rate on a particular day and no such
rate appears on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page on such day, the rate per annum at
which deposits in U.S. dollars are offered to the principal London office of The
Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. in the London interbank market at approximately 11:00
A.M., London time, on such day in an amount approximately equal to the
outstanding principal amount of the Loans, for a period of one month, in each of
the foregoing cases as determined in good faith by GBC, which determination
shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
"NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES" MEANS ALL NOW OWNED AND HEREAFTER ACQUIRED ACCOUNTS
(WHETHER OR NOT EARNED BY PERFORMANCE), LETTERS OF CREDIT, CONTRACT RIGHTS,
CHATTEL PAPER, INSTRUMENTS, SECURITIES, DOCUMENTS AND ALL OTHER FORMS OF
OBLIGATIONS AT ANY TIME OWING TO SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V., ALL GUARANTIES AND
OTHER SECURITY THEREFOR, ALL MERCHANDISE RETURNED TO OR REPOSSESSED BY SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V., AND ALL RIGHTS OF STOPPAGE IN TRANSIT AND ALL OTHER RIGHTS OR
REMEDIES OF UNPAID VENDOR, LIENOR OR SECURED PARTY.
"Obligations" means all present and future Loans, advances, debts,
liabilities, obligations, guaranties, covenants, duties and indebtedness at any
time owing by Borrower to GBC, whether evidenced by this Agreement or any note
or other instrument or document, whether arising from an extension of credit,
opening of a letter of credit, banker's acceptance, loan, guaranty,
indemnification or otherwise, whether direct or indirect (including, without
limitation, those acquired by assignment and any participation by GBC in
Borrower's debts owing to others), absolute or contingent, due or to become due,
including, without limitation, all interest, charges, expenses, fees, attorneys
fees, expert witness fees, audit fees, letter of credit fees, loan fees,
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termination fees, minimum interest charges and any other sums chargeable to
Borrower under this Agreement or under any other present or future instrument or
agreement between Borrower and GBC.
"Permitted Liens" means the following: (i) purchase money security interests
in specific items of Equipment; (ii) leases of specific items of Equipment;
(iii) liens for taxes not yet payable; (iv) additional security interests and
liens which are subordinate to the security interest in favor of GBC and are
consented to in writing by GBC (which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld); (v) security interests being terminated substantially concurrently
with this Agreement; (vi) liens of materialmen, mechanics, warehousemen,
carriers, or other similar liens arising in the ordinary course of business and
securing obligations which are not delinquent; (vii) liens incurred in
connection with the extension, renewal or refinancing of the indebtedness
secured by liens of the type described above in clauses (i) or (ii) above,
provided that any extension, renewal or replacement lien is limited to the
property encumbered by the existing lien and the principal amount of the
indebtedness being extended, renewed or refinanced does not increase; (viii)
Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities which secure payment of
customs duties in connection with the importation of goods*. GBC will have the
right to require, as a condition to its consent under subparagraph (iv) above,
that the holder of the additional security interest or lien sign an
intercreditor agreement on GBC's then standard form, acknowledge that the
security interest is subordinate to the security interest in favor of GBC, and
agree not to take any action to enforce its subordinate security interest so
long as any Obligations remain outstanding, and that Borrower agree that any
uncured default in any obligation secured by the subordinate security interest
shall also constitute an Event of Default under this Agreement.
"Person" means any individual, sole proprietorship, partnership, joint
venture, trust, unincorporated organization, association, corporation,
government, or any agency or political division thereof, or any other entity.
"Receivables" means all of Borrower's now owned and hereafter acquired
accounts (whether or not earned by performance), letters of credit, contract
rights, chattel paper, instruments, securities, documents and all other forms of
obligations at any time owing to Borrower, all guaranties and other security
therefor, all merchandise returned to or repossessed by Borrower, and all rights
of stoppage in transit and all other rights or remedies of an unpaid vendor,
lienor or secured party.
Other Terms. All accounting terms used in this Agreement, unless otherwise
indicated, shall have the meanings given to such terms in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, consistently applied. All other terms
contained in this Agreement, unless otherwise indicated, shall have the meanings
provided by the Code, to the extent such terms are defined therein.
9. GENERAL PROVISIONS
9.1 INTEREST COMPUTATION. In computing interest on the Obligations, all
checks, wire transfers and other items of payment received by GBC (including
proceeds of Receivables * and payment of the Obligations in full) shall be
deemed applied by GBC on account of the Obligations three Business Days after
receipt by GBC of immediately available funds. GBC shall not, however, be
required to credit Borrower's account for the amount of any item of payment
which is unsatisfactory to GBC in its discretion, and GBC may charge Borrower's
Loan account for the amount of any item of payment which is returned to GBC
unpaid.
* AND NETHERLANDS RECEIVABLES
9.2 APPLICATION OF PAYMENTS. All payments with respect to the Obligations may
be applied, and in GBC's sole discretion reversed and re-applied, to the
Obligations, in such order and manner as GBC shall determine in its sole
discretion.
9.3 CHARGES TO ACCOUNT. GBC may, in its discretion, require that Borrower pay
monetary Obligations in cash to GBC, or charge them to Borrower's Loan account,
in which event they will bear interest at the same rate applicable to the Loans.
9.4 MONTHLY ACCOUNTINGS. GBC shall provide Borrower monthly with an account
of advances, charges, expenses and payments made pursuant to this Agreement.
Such account shall be deemed correct, accurate and binding on Borrower and an
account stated (except for reverses and reapplications of payments made and
corrections of errors discovered by GBC), unless Borrower notifies GBC in
writing to the contrary within sixty days after each account is rendered,
describing the nature of any alleged errors or admissions.
9.5 NOTICES. All notices to be given under this Agreement shall be in
writing and shall be given either personally * or by reputable private delivery
service or by regular first-class mail, or certified mail return receipt
requested, addressed to GBC or Borrower at the addresses shown in the heading to
this Agreement, or at any other address designated in writing by one party to
the other party. All notices shall be deemed to have been given upon delivery in
the case of notices personally delivered, ** or
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at the expiration of one business day following delivery to the private delivery
service, or two business days following the deposit thereof in the United States
mail, with postage prepaid.
* OR BY FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION (AT 310-335-9794 WITH RESPECT TO GBC AND 510-
226-4100 WITH RESPECT TO BORROWER, OR AT ANY OTHER FACSIMILE NUMBER DESIGNATED
IN WRITING BY ONE PARTY TO THE OTHER PARTY)
** OR IMMEDIATELY UPON SENDING AND UPON CONFIRMATION OF RECEIPT IN THE CASE OF
NOTICES DELIVERED BY FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION,
9.6 SEVERABILITY. Should any provision of this Agreement be held by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be void or unenforceable, such defect shall
not affect the remainder of this Agreement, which shall continue in full force
and effect.
9.7 INTEGRATION. This Agreement and such other written agreements, documents
and instruments as may be executed in connection herewith are the final, entire
and complete agreement between Borrower and GBC and supersede all prior and
contemporaneous negotiations and oral representations and agreements, all of
which are merged and integrated in this Agreement. There are no oral
understandings, representations or agreements between the parties which are not
set forth in this Agreement or in other written agreements signed by the parties
in connection herewith.
9.8 WAIVERS. The failure of GBC at any time or times to require Borrower to
strictly comply with any of the provisions of this Agreement or any other
present or future agreement between Borrower and GBC shall not waive or diminish
any right of GBC later to demand and receive strict compliance therewith. Any
waiver of any default shall not waive or affect any other default, whether prior
or subsequent, and whether or not similar. None of the provisions of this
Agreement or any other agreement now or in the future executed by Borrower and
delivered to GBC shall be deemed to have been waived by any act or knowledge of
GBC or its agents or employees, but only by a specific written waiver signed by
an authorized officer of GBC and delivered to Borrower. Borrower waives demand,
protest, notice of protest and notice of default or dishonor, notice of payment
and nonpayment, release, compromise, settlement; extension or renewal of any
commercial paper, instrument, account, General Intangible, document or guaranty
at any time held by GBC on which Borrower is or may in any way be liable, and
notice of any action taken by GBC, unless expressly required by this Agreement.
9.9 AMENDMENT. The terms and provisions of this Agreement may not be waived
or amended, except in a writing executed by Borrower and a duly authorized
officer of GBC.
9.10 TIME OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence in the performance by Borrower of
each and every obligation under this Agreement.
9.11 ATTORNEYS FEES AND COST. Borrower shall reimburse GBC for all
reasonable attorneys' fees and all filing, recording, search, title insurance,
appraisal, audit, and other reasonable costs incurred by GBC, pursuant to, or in
connection with, or relating to this Agreement (whether or not a lawsuit is
filed), including, but not limited to, any reasonable attorneys fees and costs
GBC incurs in order to do the following, prepare and negotiate this Agreement
and the documents relating to this Agreement; obtain legal advice in connection
with this Agreement or Borrower; enforce, or seek to enforce, any of its rights;
prosecute actions against, or defend actions by, Account Debtors; commence,
intervene in, or defend any action or proceeding; initiate any complaint to be
relieved of the automatic stay in bankruptcy; file or prosecute any probate
claim, bankruptcy claim, third-party claim, or other claim; examine, audit,
copy, and inspect any of the Collateral or any of Borrower's books and records;
protect, obtain possession of, lease, dispose of, or otherwise enforce GBC's
security interest in, the Collateral; and otherwise represent GBC in any
litigation relating to Borrower. If either GBC or Borrower files any lawsuit
against the other predicated on a breach of this Agreement, the prevailing party
in such action shall be entitled to recover its reasonable costs and attorneys'
fees, including (but not limited to) reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
incurred in the enforcement of, execution upon or defense of any order, decree,
award or judgment. All attorneys' fees and costs to which GBC may be entitled
pursuant to this Paragraph shall immediately become part of Borrower's
Obligations, shall be due on demand, and shall bear interest at a rate equal to
the highest interest rate applicable to any of the Obligations.
9.12 BENEFIT OF AGREEMENT. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding
upon and inure to the benefit of the respective successors, assigns, heirs,
beneficiaries and representatives of Borrower and GBC; provided, however, that
Borrower may not assign or transfer any of its rights under this Agreement
without the prior written consent of GBC, and any prohibited assignment shall be
void. No consent by GBC to any assignment shall release Borrower from its
liability for the Obligations.
9.13 JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY. If Borrower consists of more than one
Person, their liability shall be joint and several, and the compromise of any
claim with, or the release of, any Borrower shall not constitute a compromise
with, or a release of, any other Borrower.
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9.14 LIMITATION OF ACTIONS. Any claim or cause of action by Borrower against
GBC, its directors, officers, employees, agents, accountants or attorneys, based
upon, arising from, or relating to this Loan Agreement, or any other present or
future document or agreement, or any other transaction contemplated hereby or
thereby or relating hereto or thereto, or any other matter, cause or thing
whatsoever, occurred, done, omitted or suffered to be done by GBC, its
directors, officers, employees, agents, accountants or attorneys, shall be
barred unless asserted by Borrower by the commencement of an action or
proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction by the filing of a complaint
within one year after the first act, occurrence or omission upon which such
claim or cause of action, or any part thereof, is based, and the service of a
summons and complaint on an officer of GBC, or on any other person authorized to
accept service on behalf of GBC, within thirty (30) days thereafter. Borrower
agrees that such one-year period is a reasonable and sufficient time for
Borrower to investigate and act upon any such claim or cause of action. The one-
year period provided herein shall not be waived, tolled, or extended except by
the written consent of GBC in its sole discretion. This provision shall survive
any termination of this Loan Agreement or any other present or future agreement.
9.15 PARAGRAPH HEADINGS; CONSTRUCTION. Paragraph headings are only used in
this Agreement for convenience. Borrower and GBC acknowledge that the headings
may not describe completely the subject matter of the applicable paragraph, and
the headings shall not be used in any manner to construe, limit, define or
interpret any term or provision of this Agreement. The term "including,"
whenever used in this Agreement, shall mean "including (but not limited to)."
This Agreement has been fully reviewed and negotiated between the parties and no
uncertainty or ambiguity in any term or provision of this Agreement shall be
construed strictly against GBC or Borrower under any rule of construction or
otherwise.
9.16 GOVERNING LAW; JURISDICTION; VENUE. This Agreement and all acts and
transactions hereunder and all rights and obligations of GBC and Borrower shall
be governed by the laws of the State of California. As a material part of the
consideration to GBC to enter into this Agreement, Borrower (i) agrees that all
actions and proceedings relating directly or indirectly to this Agreement shall,
at GBC's option, be litigated in courts located within California, and that the
exclusive venue therefor shall be Los Angeles County; (ii) consents to the
jurisdiction and venue of any such court and consents to service of process in
any such action or proceeding by personal delivery or any other method permitted
by law; and (iii) waives any and all rights Borrower may have to object to the
jurisdiction of any such court, or to transfer or change the venue of any such
action or proceeding.
9.17 MUTUAL WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. BORROWER, SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. AND GBC
EACH HEREBY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING BASED
UPON, ARISING OUT OF, OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO, THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER
PRESENT OR FUTURE INSTRUMENT OR AGREEMENT BETWEEN GBC AND BORROWER OR GBC AND
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V., OR ANY CONDUCT, ACTS OR OMISSIONS OF GBC OR BORROWER OR
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. OR ANY OF THEIR DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS,
ATTORNEYS OR ANY OTHER PERSONS AFFILIATED WITH GBC OR BORROWER OR SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V., IN ALL OF THE FOREGOING CASES, WHETHER SOUNDING IN CONTRACT OR
TORT OR OTHERWISE.
BORROWER:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
By ___________________________________
Vice President
By ___________________________________
Ass't Secretary
GBC: Accepted as of January 23, 1996
GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
a Division of NationsCredit Commercial
Corporation
By ____________________________________
Title ________________________________
ACKNOWLEDGED BY:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.
BY__________________________
TITLE________________________
-13-
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
SCHEDULE TO
LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: JANUARY 17, 1996
This Schedule is an integral part of the Loan and Security Agreement between
Greyrock Business CREDIT, A DIVISION OF NATIONSCREDIT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION
("GBC") and the above-borrower ("Borrower") of even date.
1. CREDIT LIMIT
(Section 1.1)
An amount not to exceed the lesser of (I) $30,000,000 at any one
time outstanding; or (ii) 75% (the "Advance Rate") of the amount of
Borrower's Eligible Receivables (as defined in Section 8 above);
PROVIDED that with respect to the Netherlands Receivables the
Advance Rate shall be 60% of the amount of such Eligible
Receivables, provided, further, that the Loans outstanding
regarding the Netherlands Receivables (the "Netherlands Loans")
shall not exceed $7,000,000 at any one time outstanding, provided,
further, there shall no Netherlands Loans outstanding during each
Cleanup Period (as defined below). "Cleanup Period" means the time
period starting on the last day of each of the Borrower's fiscal
quarters and ending on the 21st day of the succeeding quarter.
2. INTEREST.
INTEREST RATE (Section 1.2):
The interest rate in effect throughout each calendar month during
the term of this Agreement shall be the highest "LIBOR Rate" in
effect during such month, plus 4.825% per annum, provided that the
interest rate in effect in each month shall not be less than 8.00%
per annum. and provided that the interest charged for each month
shall be a minimum of $10,000, regardless of the amount of the
Obligations outstanding. Interest shall be calculated on the basis
of a 360-day year for the actual number of days elapsed. "LIBOR
Rate" has the meaning set forth in Section 8 above.
-1-
<PAGE>
3. FEES (Section 1.3/Section 6.2):
Loan Fee: $300,000, payable concurrently herewith.
Termination Fee: $5,000 per month for each month (or portion thereof) from
the effective date of termination to the Maturity Date,
provided that if Silicon Valley Bank replaces GBC as the
lender to the Borrower in connection with any such
termination of this Agreement, then no Termination Fee
shall be due.
NSF Check Charge: $15.00 per item.
Wire Transfers: $15.00 per transfer
4. MATURITY DATE
(Section 6.1): JANUARY 31, 1997, subject to automatic renewal as
provided in Section 6.1 above, and early termination as
provided in Section 6.2 above.
5. REPORTING.
(Section 5.2):
Borrower shall provide GBC with the following:
1. Annual financial statements, as soon as available, and
in any event within 90 days following the end of
Borrower's fiscal year, certified by independent
certified public accountants acceptable to GBC.
2. Quarterly unaudited financial statements, as soon as
available, and in any event within 45 days after the
end of each fiscal quarter of Borrower.
3. Monthly Receivable agings, aged by invoice date,
within 10 days after the end of each month relating to
the Receivables and the Netherlands Receivables.
4. Monthly accounts payable agings, aged by invoice date,
and outstanding or held check registers within 10 days
after the end of each month.
6. BORROWER INFORMATION:
PRIOR NAMES OF
BORROWER
(Section 3.2): None
PRIOR TRADE
NAMES OF BORROWER
(Section 3.2): Tota, SyDos
-2-
<PAGE>
EXISTING TRADE
NAMES OF BORROWER
(Section 3.2): SyQuest Technology, EZ Store
OTHER LOCATIONS AND
ADDRESSES (Section 3.3): See Exhibit A hereto
MATERIAL ADVERSE
LITIGATION (Section 3.10): None
7. OTHER COVENANTS:
Borrower shall at all times comply with all of
the following additional covenants:
(1) Within 45 days from the making of the first
Loan hereunder, Borrower shall cause SyQuest
Technology B.V. to enter into a guaranty,
security agreement and related documents and
agreements in favor of GBC, in such form and
containing such provisions as are acceptable
to GBC in its discretion and Borrower shall
cause SyQuest Technology B.V. to take such
actions as GBC determines are necessary or
desirable in connection therewith
(collectively, the "Guaranty and Security
Documentation and Actions"), including,
without limitation, entering into such
documents, instruments and agreements and
taking such actions as GBC determines are
necessary or desirable under the law of the
Netherlands regarding the making of a
guaranty by SyQuest Technology B.V. and the
giving by SyQuest Technology B.V. of a
security interest in its personal property
assets in favor of GBC.
(2) Within 45 days from the making of the first
Loan hereunder at the request of GBC,
Borrower shall cause SyQuest Technology Pte
Ltd to enter into a guaranty in favor of GBC
and such additional documents, instruments
and agreements as GBC determines are
necessary or desirable the law of Singapore
regarding the making of a guaranty in favor
of GBC.
(3) Within 45 days from the making of the first
Loan hereunder, Borrower shall execute and
deliver to GBC such security agreements and
other agreements, instruments and documents
that GBC determines are necessary or
desirable in order for GBC to establish and
perfect a security interest in the patents
and trademarks of Borrower.
Borrower: GBC:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC. GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
a Division of NationsCredit
By__________________________________ Commercial Corporation
Vice President
By_________________________________
By___________________________________
Ass't Secretary Title Managing Director
_____________________________
-3-
<PAGE>
SINGAPORE
- ---------
19 Kallang Ave
#03-151/163
Singapore, 1233
PENANG
- ------
Plot 557, Lorong Perusahaan 4
Prai Free Trade Zone, Phase 1
13600 Perai, Seberang Perai
Penang
Malaysia
NETHERLANDS
- -----------
Siriusdreef 43-45
2132 WT Hoofddorp
The Netherlands
JAPAN
- -----
8F, Yumoto Bldg.
1-2-6, Higashi-Nihonbashi
Chuo-ku, tokyo
103 Japan
UNITED KINGDOM
- --------------
c/o Swallowfield Office Services Ltd.
Wyvols Court, Swallowfield,
Nr. Reading, Berkshire RG7 1PY
FRANCE
- ------
55, rue Emile Landrin
F-92100 Boulogne, France
EXHIBIT A
<PAGE>
CALIFORNIA
- ----------
_________ Bayside Parkway
Fremont, CA 94538
2605-A Winchester Blvd.
Campbell, CA 95008
EZ STORE
- --------
46690 Mohave Drive
Fremont, Ca 94539
COLORADO
- --------
3005 Center Green Drive, Suite 100
Boulder, CO 80301
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 10.22
[LETTERHEAD OF GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT]
AMENDMENT TO LOAN DOCUMENTS
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: MARCH 15, 1997
THIS AMENDMENT TO LOAN DOCUMENTS is entered into between Greyrock Business
Credit, a Division of NationsCredit Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), whose
address is 300 North Continental Boulevard, Suite 200, El Segundo, California
90245 and the borrower named above ("Borrower").
The Parties agree to amend the Loan and Security Agreement between them,
dated January 17, 1996, and accepted by GBC as of January 23, 1996 (as amended,
the "Loan Agreement"), as follows, effective as of the date hereof. (This
Amendment, the Loan Agreement, any prior written amendments to said agreements
signed by GBC and the Borrower and all other written documents and agreements
between GBC and the Borrower are referred to herein collectively as the "Loan
Documents". Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Amendment, shall have
the meanings set forth in the Loan Agreement.)
1. CREDIT LIMIT. The section of the Schedule to Loan Agreement entitled
"Credit Limit Section 1.1" is hereby amended to read as follows:
"CREDIT LIMIT
SECTION 1.1:
An amount not to exceed the lesser of: (i) $30,000,000 at any
one time outstanding; or (ii) 75% (the "Advance Rate") of the
amount of Borrower's Eligible Receivables (as defined in
Section 8 above);
PROVIDED that with respect to the Netherlands Receivables the
Advance Rate shall be 60% of the amount of such Eligible
Receivables, provided further that the Loans outstanding
1
<PAGE>
regarding the Netherlands Receivables (the "Netherlands
Loans") shall not exceed $7,000,000 at any one time
outstanding, provided further there shall be no
Netherlands Loans outstanding during each Cleanup Period
(as defined below). "Cleanup Period" means the time period
starting on the last day of each of the Borrower's fiscal
quarters and ending on the 21st day of the succeeding
quarter.
LETTERS OF CREDIT Borrower and GBC are parties to the Letter of Credit
Collateral Agreement dated as of even date herewith (the
"LC Agreement"), pursuant to which GBC may, in its sole
discretion, join with the Borrower in applications for
letters of credit ("Letters of Credit") and/or guarantee
payment or the performance of the Borrower under Letters
of Credit and/or drafts or acceptances relating thereto.
Borrower understands and agrees that availability under
the Credit Limit for Loans shall be reduced in accordance
with the provisions of the LC Agreement.
EXCHANGE CONTRACTS Borrower and GBC are parties to the Foreign Exchange
Agreement dated as of even date herewith (the "FX
Agreement"), pursuant to which GBC may, in its sole
discretion, join with the Borrower in applications for
foreign exchange contracts ("Exchange Contracts") and/or
guarantee payment or the performance of the Borrower under
Exchange Contracts. Borrower understands and agrees that
availability under the Credit Limit for Loans shall be
reduced in accordance with the provisions of the FX
Agreement."
2. Additional Permitted Lien. Borrower has granted to Bank of America a
lien in the Bank of America $400,000 time certificate of deposit, Account
#12333-00882, to secure the obligations of Borrower under a bank guaranty issued
by Bank of America relating to the Singapore affiliate of Borrower, SyQuest
Technology Pte Ltd. It is agreed by the parties hereto such lien constitutes an
additional Permitted Lien under the Loan Agreement.
3. Representations True. Borrower represents and warrants to GBC that all
representations and warranties set forth in the Loan Agreement, as amended
hereby. are true and correct.
4. General Provisions. This Amendment, the Loan Agreement, and the other
Loan Documents set forth in hi] all of the representations and agreements of the
parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
discussions, representations, agreements and understandings between the parties
with respect to the subject hereof. Except as herein expressly amended, all of
the terms and provisions of the
2
<PAGE>
Loan Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall continue in full force and
effect and the same are hereby ratified and confirmed.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Borrower: GBC:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC. GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
a Division of NationsCredit
By________________________________ Commercial Corporation
President or Vice President
By________________________________ By______________________________
Ass't Secretary Title___________________________
Accepted and Acknowledged By:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, B.V.
By________________________________
Title:
By________________________________
Title:
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 10.23
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
AMENDMENT TO LOAN DOCUMENTS
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: DECEMBER 10, 1996
THIS AMENDMENT TO LOAN DOCUMENTS is entered into between GREYROCK BUSINESS
CREDIT, A DIVISION OF NATIONSCREDIT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION ("GBC"), whose
address is 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 950, Los Angeles, CA 9C024 and the
borrower named above ("Borrower").
The Parties agree to amend the Loan and Security Agreement between them, dated
January 17, 1996, and accepted by GBC as of January 23, 1996 (as amended from
time to time, the "Loan Agreement"), as follows, effective as of the date
hereof. (This Amendment, the Loan Agreement, any prior written amendments to
said agreements signed by GBC and the Borrower, and all other written documents
and agreements between GBC and the Borrower are referred to herein collectively
as the "Loan Documents". Capitalized terms used but not defined in this
Amendment, shall have the meanings set forth in the Loan Agreement.)
1. MODIFIED SECTION 6.1. Section 6.1 of the Loan Agreement is hereby amended
in its entirety to read as follows:
"6.1 MATURITY DATE. This Agreement shall continue in effect until the
maturity date set forth on the Schedule (the "Maturity Date"); provided
that the Maturity Date shall automatically be extended, and this Agreement
shall automatically and continuously renew, for successive additional terms
of one year each, unless one party gives written notice to the other not
less than thirty (30) days prior to the next Maturity Date (the "Notice of
Termination Date"), that such party elects to terminate this Agreement
effective on the next Maturity Date, provided that for the Maturity Date of
March 7, 1997, the Notice of Termination Date shall be February 7, 1997."
2. MATURITY DATE. The section of the Schedule to the Loan Agreement entitled
"Maturity Date" is hereby amended to read as follows:
1
<PAGE>
"Maturity Date
Section 6.1 MARCH 7, 1997, subject to automatic renewal as provided in
Section 6.1 above, and early termination as provided in
Section 6.2 above."
3. REPRESENTATIONS TRUE. Borrower represents and warrants to GBC that all
representations and warranties set forth in the Loan Agreement, as amended
hereby. are true and correct.
4. GENERAL PROVISIONS. This Amendment, the Loan Agreement, and the other Loan
Documents set forth in full all of the representations and agreements of the
parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
discussions representations, agreements and understandings between the parties
with respect to the subject hereof. Except as herein expressly amended, all of
the terms and provisions of the Loan Agreement and the other Loan Documents
shall continue in full force and effect and the same are hereby ratified and
confirmed.
BORROWER: GBC:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC. GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
A DIVISION OF NATIONSCREDIT
BY________________________________ COMMERCIAL CORPORATION
PRESIDENT OR VICE PRESIDENT
BY________________________________ BY________________________________
SECRETARY OR ASS'T SECRETARY TITLE_____________________________
ACKNOWLEDGED, AGREED AND CONSENTED TO BY:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, B.V.
BY________________________________
TITLE:
BY________________________________
TITLE:
2
<PAGE>
GUARANTOR'S CONSENT
The undersigned, guarantors, acknowledge that their consent to the foregoing
Amendment is not required, but the undersigned nevertheless do hereby consent to
the foregoing Amendment and to the documents and agreements referred to therein
and to all future modifications and amendments thereto, and to any and all other
present and future documents and agreements between or among the foregoing
parties. Nothing herein shall in any way limit any of the terms or provisions of
the Continuing Guaranty and Waiver executed by the undersigned in favor of
Congress, all of which are hereby ratified and affirmed and shall continue in
full force and effect.
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology (S) Pte. Ltd.
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology International
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
Iote Memories Corporation (formerly Microdisk)
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology Holding Corporation
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology GmbH
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
1
<PAGE>
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology K.K.
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology SARL
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology (M) Sdn. Bhd.
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology Limited
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology Pty. LTD.
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
Guarantor Signature:
SyQuest Technology B.V.
By________________________________
Title_____________________________
2
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY (S) PTE. LTD.,
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF SINGAPORE
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: IOTE MEMORIES CORPORATION (FORMERLY MICRODISK)
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Secretary or Assistant
Secretary on the date set forth above.
_________________________________
Secretary or Assistant Secretary
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY HOLDING CORPORATION
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY GMBH
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF GERMANY
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY K.K.
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF JAPAN
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY SARL
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF FRANCE
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY (M) SDN. BHD.
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF MALAYSIA
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED KINGDOM
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY PTY. LTD.
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF AUSTRALIA
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
GREYROCK
BUSINESS
CREDIT
A NATIONSBANK COMPANY
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION - GUARANTEE
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V.
A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE NETHERLANDS
DATE: JULY 1, 1996
I, the undersigned, an authorized signatory on behalf of the above-named
corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the jurisdiction set
forth above, do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct
copy of resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
WHEREAS, it is in the direct interest of this corporation to assist the
following person (the "Borrower"):
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
in procuring credit from Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), because Borrower is an affiliate of this
corporation, furnishes goods or services to this corporation, purchases or
acquires goods or services from this corporation, and/or otherwise has a direct
or indirect corporate or business relationship with this corporation;
RESOLVED, that any officer of this corporation is hereby authorized and directed
to: execute and deliver on behalf of this corporation a guarantee with respect
to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of Borrower to GBC, whether now
existing or hereafter arising or acquired; to pledge or assign to GBC, and to
grant to GBC a security interest and lien in, any and all assets and property,
real and personal, of this corporation as security for all indebtedness,
liabilities and obligations of this corporation to GBC, now existing or
hereafter arising, including without limitation the obligations of this
corporation under said guarantee, and to execute and deliver in connection
therewith, one or more pledge agreements, assignments, security agreements
Uniform Commercial Code financing statements, deeds of trust and mortgages, in
form and substance satisfactory to GBC; to execute and deliver any and all
amendments, modifications, extensions, renewals, replacements and agreements,
documents, instruments relating to the foregoing or requested by GBC; and to
execute and deliver any and all instruments, papers and documents and to do all
other acts that said officers may deem convenient or proper to effectuate the
purpose and intent of these resolutions.
RESOLVED, all actions heretofore taken and all documentation heretofore executed
and delivered by any of said officers, or by any individual who currently holds
or has held any of said offices, in furtherance of the foregoing is hereby
ratified, adopted, approved and confirmed and declared to be binding and
enforceable obligations of this corporation in accordance with the respective
terms and provisions thereof; and that the authorizations herein set forth shall
remain in full force and effect until written notice of any modification or
discontinuance shall be given to and actually received by GBC, but no such
modification or discontinuance shall effect the validity of the acts of any
person, authorized to so act with these resolutions, before the receipt of any
such notice by GBC.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Authorized signatory on
the date set forth above.
_________________________________
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 10.24
[LETTERHEAD OF GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT]
AMENDED AND RESTATED
LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: MARCH 3, 1997
This Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement is entered into on the
above date between GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT, a Division of NationsCredit
Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), whose address is 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Suite
950, Los Angeles, California 90024, and the borrower named above ("Borrower"),
whose chief executive office is located at the above address ("Borrower's
Address") and restates and amends in its entirety, effective as of the date
hereof, the Loan and Security Agreement dated January 17, 1996 between GBC and
Borrower, as amended that Amendment to Loan Documents dated February 2, 1996, by
that Amendment to Loan Documents dated March 15, 1996, by that Amendment to Loan
Documents dated December 10, 1996, together with the Letter of Credit Agreement
dated March 15, 1996 and the Foreign Exchange Agreement dated March 15,1996, and
all schedules and supplements thereto, and as otherwise amended, modified or
supplemented prior to the date hereof. The Schedule to this Amended and Restated
Agreement (the "Schedule") being signed concurrently is an integral part of this
Amended and Restated Agreement. (Definitions of certain terms used in this
Agreement are set forth in Section 8 below.)
1. LOANS.
1.1 LOANS. GBC will make loans to Borrower (the "Loans"), in amounts
determined by GBC in its sole discretion, up to the amounts (the "Credit Limit")
shown on the Schedule, provided no Default or Event of Default has occurred and
is continuing. If at any time or for any reason the total of all outstanding
Loans and all other Obligations exceeds the Credit Limit, Borrower shall
immediately pay the amount of the excess to GBC, without notice or demand.
1.2 INTEREST. All Loans and all other monetary Obligations shall bear
interest at the rate shown on the Schedule, except where expressly set forth to
the contrary in this Agreement or in another written agreement signed by GBC and
Borrower. Interest shall be payable monthly, on the last day of the month.
Interest may, in GBC's discretion, be charged to Borrower's loan account, and
the same shall thereafter bear interest at the same rate as the other Loans.
1.3 FEES. Borrower shall pay GBC the fee(s) shown on the Schedule, which are
in addition to all interest and other sums payable to GBC and are not
refundable.
2. SECURITY INTEREST.
2.1 SECURITY INTEREST. To secure the payment and performance of all of the
Obligations when due. Borrower hereby grants to GBC a security interest in all
of Borrower's interest in the following, whether now owned or hereafter
acquired, and wherever located (collectively, the "Collateral"): All Inventory,
Equipment, Receivables, and General Intangibles, including, without limitation,
all of Borrower's Deposit Accounts, all money, all collateral in which GBC is
granted a security interest pursuant to any other present or future agreement,
all property * now or at any time in the future in GBC's possession, and all
proceeds (including proceeds of any insurance policies, proceeds of proceeds and
claims against third parties), all products of the foregoing, and all books and
records related to any of the foregoing.
* OF BORROWER
3. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF THE BORROWER.
In order to induce GBC to enter into this Agreement and to make Loans,
Borrower represents and warrants to GBC as follows, and Borrower covenants that
the following representations will continue to be true, and that Borrower will
at all times comply with all of the following covenants:
3.1 CORPORATE EXISTENCE AND AUTHORITY. Borrower, if a corporation, is and
will continue to be, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under
the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation. Borrower is and will
-1-
<PAGE>
Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
continue to be qualified and licensed to do business in all jurisdictions in
which any failure to do so would have a material adverse effect on Borrower. The
execution, delivery and performance by Borrower of this Agreement, and all other
documents contemplated hereby (i) have been duly and validly authorized, (ii)
are enforceable against Borrower in accordance with their terms (except as
enforcement may be limited by equitable principles and by bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws relating to creditors'
rights generally), (iii) do not violate Borrower's articles or certificate of
incorporation, or Borrower's by-laws, or any law or any material agreement or
instrument which is binding upon Borrower or its property, and (iv) do not
constitute grounds for acceleration of any material indebtedness or obligation
under any material agreement or instrument which is binding upon Borrower or its
property.
3.2 NAME; TRADE NAMES AND STYLES. The name of Borrower set forth in the
heading to this Agreement is its correct name. Listed on the Schedule are all
prior names of Borrower and all of Borrower's present and prior trade names.
Borrower shall give GBC 30 days' prior written notice before changing its name
or doing business under any other name. Borrower has complied, and will in the
future comply, with all laws relating to the conduct of business under a
fictitious business name.
3.3 PLACE OF BUSINESS; LOCATION OF COLLATERAL. The address set forth in the
heading to this Agreement is Borrower's chief executive office. In addition,
Borrower has places of business and Collateral is located only at the locations
set forth on the Schedule. Borrower will give GBC at least 30 days prior written
notice before opening any additional place of business, changing its chief
executive office, or moving any of the Collateral to a location other than
Borrower's Address or one of the locations set forth on the Schedule.
3.4 TITLE TO COLLATERAL; PERMITTED LIENS. Borrower is now, and will at all
times in the future be, the sole owner of all the Collateral, except for items
of Equipment which are leased by Borrower. The Collateral now is and will remain
free and clear of any and all liens, charges, security interests, encumbrances
and adverse claims, except for Permitted Liens. GBC now has, and will continue
to have, a first-priority perfected and enforceable security interest in all of
the Collateral, subject only to the Permitted Liens, and Borrower will at all
times defend GBC and the Collateral against all claims of others. So long as any
Loan is outstanding which is a term loan, none of the Collateral now is or will
be affixed to any real property in such a manner, or with such intent, as to
become a fixture. Borrower is not and will not become a lessee under any real
property lease pursuant to which the lessor may obtain any rights in any of the
Collateral and no such lease now prohibits, restrains, impairs or will prohibit,
restrain or impair Borrower's right to remove any Collateral from the leased
premises. Whenever any Collateral is located upon premises in which any third
party has an interest (whether as owner, mortgagee, beneficiary under a deed of
trust, lien or otherwise), Borrower shall, whenever requested by GBC, use its
best efforts to cause such third party to execute and deliver to GBC, in form
acceptable to GBC, such waivers and subordinations as GBC shall specify, so as
to ensure that GBC's rights in the Collateral are, and will continue to be,
superior to the rights of any such third party. Borrower will keep in full force
and effect, and will comply with all the terms of, any lease of real property
where any of the Collateral now or in the future may be located.
3.5 MAINTENANCE OF COLLATERAL. Borrower will maintain the Collateral in good
working condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted, and Borrower will not use
the Collateral for any unlawful purpose. Borrower will immediately advise GBC in
writing of any material loss or damage to the Collateral.
3.6 BOOKS AND RECORDS. Borrower has maintained and will maintain at
Borrower's Address complete and accurate books and records, comprising an
accounting system in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
3.7 FINANCIAL CONDITION, STATEMENTS AND REPORTS. All financial statements now
or in the future delivered to GBC have been, and will be, prepared in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles and now and in the future will
completely and fairly reflect the financial condition of Borrower, at the times
and for the periods therein stated. Between the last date covered by any such
statement provided to GBC and the date hereof, there has been no material
adverse change in the financial condition or business of Borrower. Borrower is
now and will continue to be solvent.
3.8 TAX RETURNS AND PAYMENTS; PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS. Borrower has timely
filed, and will timely file, all tax returns and reports required by applicable
law, and Borrower has timely paid, and will timely pay, all applicable taxes,
assessments, deposits and contributions now or in the future owed by Borrower.
Borrower may, however, defer payment of any contested taxes, provided that
Borrower (i) in good faith contests Borrower's obligation to pay the taxes by
appropriate proceedings promptly and diligently instituted and conducted, (ii)
notifies GBC in writing of the commencement of, and any material development in,
the proceedings, and (iii) posts bonds or takes any other steps required to keep
the contested taxes from becoming a lien upon any of the Collateral. Borrower
is unaware of any claims or adjustments proposed for any of Borrower's prior tax
years which could result in additional taxes becoming due and payable by
Borrower. Borrower has paid, and shall continue to pay all amounts necessary to
fund all present and future pension, profit sharing and deferred compensation
plans in accordance with their terms, and Borrower has not and will not withdraw
from participation in, permit partial or complete termination of, or permit the
occurrence of any other event with respect to, any such plan which could result
in any liability of Borrower, including any liability to the Pension Benefit
Guaranty Corporation or any other governmental agency. Borrower shall, at all
times, utilize the services of an
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outside payroll service providing for the automatic deposit of all payroll taxes
payable by Borrower.
3.9 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. Borrower has complied, and will comply, in all
material respects, with all provisions of all applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, those relating to Borrower's ownership of real or
personal property, the conduct and licensing of Borrower's business, and all
environmental matters.
3.10 LITIGATION. Except as disclosed in the Schedule, there is no claim,
suit, litigation, proceeding or investigation pending or (to best of Borrower's
knowledge) threatened by or against or affecting Borrower in any court or before
any governmental agency (or any basis therefor known to Borrower) which may
result, either separately or in the aggregate, in any material adverse change in
the financial condition or business of Borrower, or in any material impairment
in the ability of Borrower to carry on its business in substantially the same
manner as it is now being conducted. Borrower will promptly inform GBC in
writing of any claim, proceeding, litigation or investigation in the future
threatened or instituted by or against Borrower involving any single claim of
$50,000 or more, or involving $100,000 or more in the aggregate.
3.11 USE OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds of all Loans shall be used solely for
lawful business purposes.
4. RECEIVABLES.
4.1 REPRESENTATIONS RELATING TO RECEIVABLES. Borrower represents and warrants
to GBC as follows: Each Receivable with respect to which Loans are requested by
Borrower shall, on the date each Loan is requested and made, (i) represent an
undisputed, bona fide, existing, unconditional obligation of the Account Debtor
created by the sale, delivery, and acceptance of goods or the rendition of
services, in the ordinary course of Borrower's business, and (ii) meet the
eligibility requirements set forth in Section 8 below.
4.2 REPRESENTATIONS RELATING TO DOCUMENTS AND LEGAL COMPLIANCE. Borrower
represents and warrants to GBC as follows: All statements made and all unpaid
balances appearing in all invoices, instruments and other documents evidencing
the Receivables are and shall be true and correct and all such invoices,
instruments and other documents and all of Borrower's books and records are and
shall be genuine and in all respects what they purport to be, and all
signatories and endorsers have the capacity to contract. All sales and other
transactions underlying or giving rise to each Receivable shall comply with all
applicable laws and governmental rules and regulations. All signatures and
indorsements on all documents, instruments, and agreements relating to all
Receivables are and shall be genuine, and all such documents, instruments and
agreements are and shall be legally enforceable in accordance with their terms.
4.3 SCHEDULES AND DOCUMENTS RELATING TO RECEIVABLES. Borrower shall deliver to
GBC transaction reports and loan requests, schedules and assignments of all
Receivables, and schedules of collections, all on GBC's standard forms;
provided, however, that Borrower's failure to execute and deliver the same shall
not affect or limit GBC's security interest and other rights in all of
Borrower's Receivables, nor shall GBC's failure to advance or lend against a
specific Receivable affect or limit GBC's security interest and other rights
therein. Together with each such schedule and assignment, or later if requested
by GBC, Borrower shall furnish GBC with copies (or, at GBC's request, originals)
of all contracts, orders, invoices, and other similar documents, and all
original shipping instructions, delivery receipts, bills of lading, and other
evidence of delivery, for any goods the sale or disposition of which gave rise
to such Receivables, and Borrower warrants the genuineness of all of the
foregoing. Borrower shall also furnish to GBC an aged accounts receivable trial
balance in such form and at such intervals as GBC shall request. In addition,
Borrower shall deliver to GBC the originals of all instruments, chattel paper,
security agreements, guarantees and other documents and property evidencing or
securing any Receivables, immediately upon receipt thereof and in the same form
as received, with all necessary indorsements.
4.4 COLLECTION OF RECEIVABLES. Borrower shall have the right to collect all
Receivables, unless and until a Default or an Event of Default has occurred.
Borrower shall hold all payments on, and proceeds of, Receivables in trust for
GBC, and Borrower shall deliver all such payments and proceeds to GBC, within
one business day after receipt of the same, in their original form, duly
endorsed, to be applied to the Obligations in such order as GBC shall determine.
4.5 DISPUTES. Borrower shall notify GBC promptly of all disputes or claims
relating to Receivables on the regular reports to GBC. Borrower shall not
forgive, or settle any Receivable for less than payment in full, or agree to do
any of the foregoing, except that Borrower may do so, provided that: (i)
Borrower does so in good faith, in a commercially reasonable manner, in the
ordinary course of business, and in arm's length transactions, which are
reported to GBC on the regular reports provided to GBC, (ii) no Default or Event
of Default has occurred and is continuing; and (iii) taking into account all
such settlements and forgiveness, the total outstanding Loans and other
Obligations will not exceed the Credit Limit.
4.6 RETURNS. Provided no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, if
any Account Debtor returns any Inventory to Borrower in the ordinary course of
its business, Borrower shall promptly determine the reason for such return and
promptly issue a credit memorandum to the Account Debtor in the appropriate
amount (sending a copy to GBC). In the event any attempted return occurs after
the occurrence of any Event of Default. Borrower shall (i) not accept any return
without GBC's prior written consent, (ii) hold the returned Inventory in trust
for GBC, (iii) segregate all returned Inventory from all of Borrower's other
property, (iv) conspicuously label the returned Inventory as GBC's property,
and
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(v) immediately notify GBC of the return of any Inventory, specifying the
reason for such return, the location and condition of the returned Inventory,
and on GBC's request deliver such returned Inventory to GBC.
4.7 VERIFICATION. GBC may, from time to time, verify directly with the
respective Account Debtors the validity, amount and other matters relating to
the Receivables, by means of mail, telephone or otherwise, either in the name of
Borrower or GBC or such other name as GBC may choose, and GBC or its designee
may, at any time, notify Account Debtors that it has a security interest in the
Receivables.
4.8 NO LIABILITY. GBC shall not under any circumstances be responsible or
liable for any shortage or discrepancy in, damage to, or loss or destruction of,
any goods, the sale or other disposition of which gives rise to a Receivable, or
for any error, act, omission, or delay of any kind occurring in the settlement,
failure to settle, collection or failure to collect any Receivable, or for
settling any Receivable in good faith for less than the full amount thereof, nor
shall GBC be deemed to be responsible for any of Borrower's obligations under
any contract or agreement giving rise to a Receivable. Nothing herein shall,
however, relieve GBC from liability for its own gross negligence or willful
misconduct.
5. ADDITIONAL DUTIES OF THE BORROWER.
5.1 INSURANCE. Borrower shall, at all times, insure all of the tangible
personal property Collateral and carry such other business insurance, with
insurers reasonably acceptable to GBC, in such form and amounts as GBC may
reasonably require, and Borrower shall provide evidence of such insurance to
GBC, so that GBC is satisfied that such insurance is, at all times, in full
force and effect. All such insurance policies shall name GBC as an additional
loss payee, and shall contain a lenders loss payee endorsement in form
reasonably acceptable to GBC. Upon receipt of the proceeds of any such
insurance, GBC shall apply such proceeds in reduction of the Obligations as GBC
shall determine in its sole discretion, except that, provided no Default or
Event of Default has occurred and is continuing. GBC shall release to Borrower
insurance proceeds with respect to Equipment totaling less than $100,000, which
shall be utilized by Borrower for the replacement of the Equipment with respect
to which the insurance proceeds were paid. GBC may require reasonable assurance
that the insurance proceeds so released will be so used. If Borrower fails to
provide or pay for any insurance, GBC may, but is not obligated to, obtain the
same at Borrower's expense. Borrower shall promptly deliver to GBC copies of all
reports made to insurance companies.
5.2 REPORTS. Borrower, at its expense, shall provide GBC with the written
reports set forth in the Schedule, and such other written reports with respect
to Borrower (including budgets, sales projections, operating plans and other
financial documentation), as GBC shall from time to time reasonably specify.
5.3 ACCESS TO COLLATERAL, BOOKS AND RECORDS. At reasonable times, and on one
business day's notice, GBC, or its agents, shall have the right to inspect the
Collateral, and the right to audit and copy Borrower's books and records. GBC
shall take reasonable steps to keep confidential all information obtained in any
such inspection or audit, but GBC shall have the right to disclose any such
information to its auditors, regulatory agencies, and attorneys, and pursuant to
any subpoena or other legal process. * be done more frequently than four times
per calendar year, provided that the foregoing limits shall not apply after the
occurrence of a Default or Event of Default. Borrower will not enter into any
agreement with any accounting firm, service bureau or third party to store
Borrower's books or records at any location other than Borrower's Address,
without first obtaining GBC's written consent, which may be conditioned upon
such accounting firm, service bureau or other third party agreeing to give GBC
the same rights with respect to access to books and records and related rights
as GBC has under this Agreement. **
* AUDITS SHALL NOT
** BORROWER AGREES TO PAY FOR, OR REIMBURSE GBC FOR, THE COSTS OF ALL
APPRAISALS OF COLLATERAL THAT GBC DETERMINES ARE NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE
5.4 REMITTANCE OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds arising from the sale or other
disposition of any Collateral shall be delivered, in kind, by Borrower to GBC in
the original form in which received by Borrower not later than the following
business day after receipt by Borrower, to be applied to the Obligations in such
order as GBC shall determine; provided that, if no Default or Event of Default
has occurred and is continuing, and if no term loan is outstanding hereunder,
then Borrower shall not be obligated to remit to GBC the proceeds of the sale of
Equipment which is sold in the ordinary course of business, in a good-faith
arm's length transaction. Except for the proceeds of the sale of Equipment as
set forth above, Borrower shall not commingle proceeds of Collateral with any of
Borrower's other funds or property, and shall hold such proceeds separate and
apart from such other funds and property and in an express trust for GBC.
Nothing in this Section limits the restrictions on disposition of Collateral set
forth elsewhere in this Agreement.
5.5 NEGATIVE COVENANTS. Except as may be permitted in the Schedule, Borrower
shall not, without GBC's prior written consent, do any of the following: (i)
merge or consolidate with another corporation or entity; (ii) acquire any
assets, except in the ordinary course of business; (iii) enter into any other
transaction outside the ordinary
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course of business; (iv) sell or transfer any Collateral, except that, provided
no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing. Borrower may (a)
sell finished Inventory in the ordinary course of Borrower's business, and (b)
if no term loan is outstanding hereunder, sell Equipment in the ordinary course
of business, in good-faith arm's length transactions; (v) store any Inventory or
other Collateral with any warehouseman or other third party; (vi) sell any
inventory on a sale-or-return, guaranteed sale, consignment, or other contingent
basis; (vii) make any loans of any money or other assets; (viii) incur any
debts, outside the ordinary course of business, which would have a material,
adverse effect on Borrower or on the prospect of repayment of the Obligations *;
(ix) guarantee or otherwise become liable with respect to the obligations of
another party or entity; (x) pay or declare any dividends on Borrower's stock
(except for dividends payable solely in stock of Borrower); (xi) redeem, retire,
purchase or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any of Borrower's stock;
(xii) make any change in Borrower's capital structure which would have a
material adverse effect on Borrower or on the prospect of repayment of the
Obligations; or (xiii) dissolve or elect to dissolve; or (xiv) agree to do any
of the foregoing.
* OTHER THAN THE SILICON LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY (AS DEFINED IN THE
DEFINITION OF PERMITTED LIENS IN SECTION 8 BELOW)
5.6 LITIGATION COOPERATION. Should any third-party suit or proceeding be
instituted by or against GBC with respect to any Collateral or in any manner
relating to Borrower, Borrower shall, without expense to GBC make available
Borrower and its officers, employees and agents, and Borrower's books and
records, without charge, to the extent that GBC may deem them reasonably
necessary in order to prosecute or defend any such suit or proceeding.
5.7 NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES. Borrower will promptly notify GBC in writing of
any change in its officers or directors, the opening of any new bank account or
other deposit account, and any material adverse change in the business or
financial affairs of Borrower.
5.8 FURTHER ASSURANCES. Borrower agrees, at its expense, on request by GBC,
to execute all documents and take all actions, as GBC may deem reasonably
necessary or useful in order to perfect and maintain GBC's perfected security
interest in the Collateral, and in order to fully consummate the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
5.9 INDEMNITY. Borrower hereby agrees to indemnify GBC and hold GBC harmless
from and against any and all claims, debts, liabilities, demands, obligations,
actions, causes of action, penalties, costs and expenses (including attorneys'
fees), of every nature, character and description, which GBC may sustain or
incur based upon or arising out of any of the Obligations, any actual or alleged
failure to collect and pay over any withholding or other tax relating to
Borrower or its employees, any relationship or agreement between GBC and
Borrower, any actual or alleged failure of GBC to comply with any writ of
attachment or other legal process relating to Borrower or any of its property,
or any other matter, cause or thing whatsoever occurred, done, omitted or
suffered to be done by GBC relating to Borrower or the Obligations (except any
such amounts sustained or incurred as the result of the gross negligence or
willful misconduct of GBC or any of its directors, officers, employees, agents,
attorneys, or any other person affiliated with or representing GBC).
Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, the indemnity
agreement set forth in this Section shall survive any termination of this
Agreement and shall for all purposes continue in full force and effect.
6. TERM.
6.1 MATURITY DATE. This Agreement shall continue in effect until the maturity
date set forth on the Schedule (the "Maturity Date"); provided that the Maturity
Date shall automatically be extended, and this Agreement shall automatically and
continuously renew, for successive additional terms of one year each, unless one
party gives written notice to the other, not less than sixty days prior to the
next Maturity Date, that such party elects to terminate this Agreement effective
on the next Maturity Date.
6.2 EARLY TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated prior to the
Maturity Date as follows: (i) by Borrower, effective three business days after
written notice of termination is given to GBC; or (ii) by GBC at any time after
the occurrence of an Event of Default, without notice, effective immediately. If
this Agreement is terminated by Borrower or by GBC under this Section 6.2,
Borrower shall pay to GBC a termination fee (the "Termination Fee") in the
amount shown on the Schedule. The Termination Fee shall be due and payable on
the effective date of termination and thereafter shall bear interest at a rate
equal to the highest rate applicable to any of the Obligations.
6.3 PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. On the Maturity Date or on any earlier effective
date of termination, Borrower shall pay and perform in full all Obligations,
whether evidenced by installment notes or otherwise, and whether or not all or
any part of such Obligations are otherwise then due and payable. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, if on the Maturity Date, or on any
earlier effective date of termination, there are any outstanding letters of
credit issued based upon an application, guarantee, indemnity or similar
agreement on the part of GBC, then on such date Borrower shall provide to GBC
cash collateral in an amount equal to 110% of the face amount of all such
letters of credit plus all interest, fees and costs due or (in GBC's estimation)
likely to become due in connection therewith, to secure all of the Obligations
relating to said letters of credit, pursuant to GBC's then standard form cash
pledge agreement. Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement, all of
GBC's security interests in all of the Collateral and all of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect until all
Obligations have been paid and performed in full; provided that, without
limiting the fact that Loans are subject to the discretion of GBC, GBC may, in
its sole discretion, refuse to make any further
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Loans after termination. No termination shall in any way affect or impair any
right or remedy of GBC, nor shall any such termination relieve Borrower of any
Obligation to GBC, until all of the Obligations have been paid and performed in
full. Upon payment and performance in full of all the Obligations and
termination of this Agreement, GBC shall promptly deliver to Borrower
termination statements, requests for reconveyances and such other documents as
may be reasonably required to terminate GBC's security interests.
7. EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES.
7.1 EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The occurrence of any of the following events shall
constitute an "Event of Default" under this Agreement, and Borrower shall give
GBC immediate written notice thereof, (a) Any warranty, representation,
statement, report or certificate made or delivered to GBC by Borrower or any of
Borrower's officers, employees or agents, now or in the future, shall be untrue
or misleading in a material respect; or (b) Borrower shall fail to pay when due
any Loan or any interest thereon or any other monetary Obligation; or (c) the
total Loans and other Obligations outstanding at any time shall exceed the
Credit Limit; or (d) Borrower shall fail to perform any non-monetary Obligation
which by its nature cannot be cured; or (e) Borrower shall fail to perform any
other non-monetary Obligation, which failure is not cured within 5 * business
days after the date performance is due; or (f) any levy, assessment, attachment,
seizure, lien or encumbrance (other than a Permitted Lien) is made on all or any
part of the Collateral which is not cured within 10 days after the occurrence of
the same; or (g) any default or event of default occurs under any obligation
secured by a Permitted Lien, which is not cured within any applicable cure
period or waived in writing by the holder of the Permitted Lien; or (h) Borrower
breaches any material contract or obligation, which has or may reasonably be
expected to have a material adverse effect on Borrower's business or financial
condition; or (i) dissolution, termination of existence, insolvency or business
failure of Borrower or any Guarantor; or appointment of a receiver, trustee or
custodian, for all or any part of the property of, assignment for the benefit of
creditors by, or the commencement of any proceeding by Borrower or any Guarantor
under any reorganization, bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement, readjustment of
debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute of any jurisdiction, now or in
the future in effect; or (j) the commencement of any proceeding against Borrower
or any Guarantor under any reorganization, bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement,
readjustment of debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute of any
jurisdiction, now or in the future in effect, which is not cured by the
dismissal thereof within 45 days after the date commenced; or (k) revocation or
termination of, or limitation or denial of liability upon, any guaranty of the
Obligations or any attempt to do any of the foregoing; or (l) revocation or
termination of, or limitation or denial of liability upon, any pledge of any
certificate of deposit, securities or other property or asset pledged by any
third party to secure any or all of the Obligations, or any attempt to do any of
the foregoing, or commencement of proceedings by or against any such third party
under any bankruptcy or insolvency law; or (m) Borrower makes any payment on
account of any indebtedness or obligation which has been subordinated to the
Obligations other than as permitted in the applicable subordination agreement,
or if any Person who has subordinated such indebtedness or obligations
terminates or in any way limits or terminates its subordination agreement; or
(n) there shall be a change in the record or beneficial ownership of an
aggregate of more than 20% of the outstanding shares of stock of Borrower, in
one or more transactions, compared to the ownership of outstanding shares of
stock of Borrower in effect on the date hereof, without the prior written
consent of GBC; or (o) Borrower shall generally not pay its debts as they become
due, or Borrower shall conceal, remove or transfer any part of its property,
with intent to hinder, delay or defraud its creditors, or make or suffer any
transfer of any of its property which may be fraudulent under any bankruptcy,
fraudulent conveyance or similar law; or (p) there shall be a material adverse
change in Borrower's business or financial condition **. GBC may cease making
any Loans hereunder during any of the above cure periods, and thereafter if an
Event of Default has occurred.
* 10
** OR (q) THERE SHALL OCCUR A DEFAULT OR AN EVENT OF DEFAULT UNDER THE
GUARANTY DATED FEBRUARY 15, 1996 BETWEEN SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. IN FAVOR OF GBC
OR UNDER THE SECURITY AGREEMENT DATED FEBRUARY 15, 1996 BETWEEN SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V. IN FAVOR OF GBC.
7.2 REMEDIES. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of
Default, and at any time thereafter, GBC, at its option, and without notice or
demand of any kind (all of which are hereby expressly waived by Borrower), may
do any one or more of the following: (a) Cease making Loans or otherwise
extending credit to Borrower under this Agreement or any other document or
agreement; (b) Accelerate and declare all or any part of the Obligations to be
immediately due, payable, and performable, notwithstanding any deferred or
installment payments allowed by any instrument evidencing or relating to any
Obligation; (c) Take possession of any or all of the Collateral wherever it may
be found, and for that purpose Borrower hereby authorizes GBC without judicial
process to enter onto any of Borrower's premises without interference to search
for, take possession of, keep, store, or remove any of the Collateral, and
remain on the premises or cause a custodian to remain on the premises in
exclusive control thereof, without charge for so long as GBC deems it reasonably
necessary in order to complete the enforcement of its rights under this
Agreement or any other agreement; provided, however, that should GBC seek to
take possession of any of the Collateral by Court process, Borrower hereby
irrevocably waives: (i) any bond and any surety or security relating thereto
required
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by any statute, court rule or otherwise as an incident to such possession; (ii)
any demand for possession prior to the commencement of any suit or action to
recover possession thereof; and (iii) any requirement that GBC retain possession
of, and not dispose of, any such Collateral until after trial or final judgment;
(d) Require Borrower to assemble any or all of the Collateral and make it
available to GBC at places designated by GBC which are reasonably convenient to
GBC and Borrower, and to remove the Collateral to such locations as GBC may deem
advisable; (e) Complete the processing, manufacturing or repair of any
Collateral prior to a disposition thereof and, for such purpose and for the
purpose of removal, GBC shall have the right to use Borrower's premises,
vehicles, hoists, lifts, cranes, equipment and all other property without
charge; (f) Sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any of the Collateral, in its
condition at the time GBC obtains possession of it or after further
manufacturing, processing or repair, at one or more public and/or private sales,
in lots or in bulk, for cash, exchange or other property, or on credit, and to
adjourn any such sale from time to time without notice other than oral
announcement at the time scheduled for sale. GBC shall have the right to conduct
such disposition on Borrower's premises without charge, for such time or times
as GBC deems reasonable, or on GBC's premises, or elsewhere and the Collateral
need not be located at the place of disposition. GBC may directly or through any
affiliated company purchase or lease any Collateral at any such public
disposition, and if permissible under applicable law, at any private
disposition. Any sale or other disposition of Collateral shall not relieve
Borrower of any liability Borrower may have if any Collateral is defective as to
title or physical condition or otherwise at the time of sale; (g) Demand payment
of, and collect any Receivables and General Intangibles comprising Collateral
and, in connection therewith. Borrower irrevocably authorizes GBC to endorse or
sign Borrower's name on all collections, receipts, instruments and other
documents, to take possession of and open mail addressed to Borrower and remove
therefrom payments made with respect to any item of the Collateral or proceeds
thereof, and, in GBC's sole discretion, to grant extensions of time to pay,
compromise claims and settle Receivables, General Intangibles and the like for
less than face value; and (h) Demand and receive possession of any of Borrower's
federal and state income tax returns and the books and records utilized in the
preparation thereof or referring thereto. All reasonable attorneys' fees,
expenses, costs, liabilities and obligations incurred by GBC with respect to the
foregoing shall be added to and become part of the Obligations, shall be due on
demand, and shall bear interest at a rate equal to the highest interest rate
applicable to any of the Obligations.
7.3 STANDARDS FOR DETERMINING COMMERCIAL REASONABLENESS. Borrower and GBC
agree that a sale or other disposition (collectively, "sale") of any Collateral
which complies with the following standards will conclusively be deemed to be
commercially reasonable: (i) Notice of the sale is given to Borrower at least
seven days prior to the sale, and, in the case of a public sale, notice of the
sale is published at least seven days before the sale in a newspaper of general
circulation in the county where the sale is to be conducted; (ii) Notice of the
sale describes the collateral in general, non-specific terms; (iii) The sale is
conducted at a place designated by GBC, with or without the Collateral being
present; (iv) The sale commences at any time between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m; (v)
Payment of the purchase price in cash or by cashier's check or wire transfer is
required; (vi) With respect to any sale of any of the Collateral. GBC may (but
is not obligated to) direct any prospective purchaser to ascertain directly from
Borrower any and all information concerning the same. GBC shall be free to
employ other methods of noticing and selling the Collateral, in its discretion,
if they are commercially reasonable.
7.4 POWER OF ATTORNEY. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any
Event of Default, without limiting GBC's other rights and remedies, Borrower
grants to GBC an irrevocable power of attorney coupled with an interest,
authorizing and permitting GBC (acting through any of its employees, attorneys
or agents) at any time, at its option, but without obligation, with or without
notice to Borrower, and at Borrower's expense, to do any or all of the
following, in Borrower's name or otherwise, but GBC agrees to exercise the
following powers in a commercially reasonable manner: (a) Execute on behalf of
Borrower any documents that GBC may, in its sole discretion, deem advisable in
order to perfect and maintain GBC's security interest in the Collateral, or in
order to exercise a right of Borrower or GBC, or in order to fully consummate
all the transactions contemplated under this Agreement, and all other present
and future agreements; (b) Execute on behalf of Borrower any document
exercising, transferring or assigning any option to purchase, sell or otherwise
dispose of or to lease (as lessor or lessee) any real or personal property which
is part of GBC's Collateral or in which GBC has an interest; (c) Execute on
behalf of Borrower, any invoices relating to any Receivable, any draft against
any Account Debtor and any notice to any Account Debtor, any proof of claim in
bankruptcy, any Notice of Lien, claim of mechanic's, materialman's or other
lien, or assignment or satisfaction of mechanic's, materialman's or other lien;
(d) Take control in any manner of any cash or non-cash items of payment or
proceeds of Collateral; endorse the name of Borrower upon any instruments, or
documents, evidence of payment or Collateral that may come into GBC's
possession; (e) Endorse all checks and other forms of remittances received by
GBC; (f) Pay, contest or settle any lien, charge, encumbrance, security interest
and adverse claim in or to any of the Collateral, or any judgment based thereon,
or otherwise take any action to terminate or discharge the same; (g) Grant
extensions of time to pay, compromise claims and settle Receivables and General
Intangibles for less than face value and execute all releases and other
documents in connection therewith; (h) Pay any sums required on account of
Borrower's taxes or to secure the release of any liens therefor, or both; (i)
Settle and adjust, and give releases
-7-
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Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
of, any insurance claim that relates to any of the Collateral and obtain payment
therefor; (j) Instruct any third party having custody or control of any books or
records belonging to, or relating to, Borrower to give GBC the same rights of
access and other rights with respect thereto as GBC has under this Agreement;
and (k) Take any action or pay any sum required of Borrower pursuant to this
Agreement and any other present or future agreements. Any and all reasonable
sums paid and any and all reasonable costs, expenses, liabilities, obligations
and reasonable attorneys' fees incurred by GBC with respect to the foregoing
shall be added to and become part of the Obligations, shall be payable on
demand, and shall bear interest at a rate equal to the highest interest rate
applicable to any of the Obligations. In no event shall GBC's rights under the
foregoing power of attorney or any of GBC's other rights under this Agreement be
deemed to indicate that GBC is in control of the business, management or
properties of Borrower.
7.5 APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds realized as the result of any sale
or other disposition of the Collateral shall be applied by GBC first to the
reasonable costs, expenses, liabilities, obligations and attorneys' fees
incurred by GBC in the exercise of its rights under this Agreement, second to
the interest due upon any of the Obligations, and third to the principal of the
Obligations, in such order as GBC shall determine in its sole discretion. Any
surplus shall be paid to Borrower or other persons legally entitled thereto;
Borrower shall remain liable to GBC for any deficiency. If GBC, in its sole
discretion, directly or indirectly enters into a deferred payment or other
credit transaction with any purchaser at any sale of Collateral, GBC shall have
the option, exercisable at any time, in its sole discretion, of either reducing
the Obligations by the principal amount of purchase price or deferring the
reduction of the Obligations until the actual receipt by GBC of the cash
therefor.
7.6 REMEDIES CUMULATIVE. In addition to the rights and remedies set forth in
this Agreement, GBC shall have all the other rights and remedies accorded a
secured party under the California Uniform Commercial Code and under all other
applicable laws, and under any other instrument or agreement now or in the
future entered into between GBC and Borrower, and all of such rights and
remedies are cumulative and none is exclusive. Exercise or partial exercise by
GBC of one or more of its rights or remedies shall not be deemed an election,
nor bar GBC from subsequent exercise or partial exercise of any other rights or
remedies. The failure or delay of GBC to exercise any rights or remedies shall
not operate as a waiver thereof, but all rights and remedies shall continue in
full force and effect until all of the Obligations have been fully paid and
performed.
8. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the
following meanings:
"Account Debtor" means the obligor on a Receivable.
--------------
"Affiliate" means, with respect to any Person, a relative, partner,
---------
shareholder, director, officer, or employee of such Person, or any parent or
subsidiary of such Person, or any Person controlling, controlled by or under
common control with such Person.
"Agreement" and "this Agreement" means this Loan and Security Agreement and
--------- --------------
all modifications and amendments thereto, extensions thereof, and replacements
therefor.
"Business Day" means a day on which GBC is open for business.
------------
"Code" means the Uniform Commercial Code as adopted and in effect in the State
----
of California from time to time.
"Collateral" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 above.
----------
"Default" means any event which with notice or passage of time or both, would
-------
constitute an Event of Default.
"Deposit Account" has the meaning set forth in Section 9105 of the Code.
---------------
"Eligible Inventory" means Inventory which GBC, in its sole judgment, deems
------------------
eligible for borrowing, based on such considerations as GBC may from time to
time deem appropriate. Without limiting the fact that the determination of
which Inventory is eligible for borrowing is a matter of GBC's discretion,
Inventory which does not meet the following requirements will not be deemed to
be Eligible Inventory: Inventory which (i) consists of finished goods, in good,
new and salable condition which is not perishable, not obsolete or
unmerchantable, and is not comprised of raw materials, work in process,
packaging materials or supplies; (ii) meets all applicable governmental
standards; (iii) has been manufactured in compliance with the Fair Labor
Standards Act; (iv) conforms in all respects to the warranties and
representations set forth in this Agreement; (v) is at all times subject to
GBC's duly perfected, first priority security interest; and (vii) is situated at
Borrower's Address or at one of Borrower's other locations set forth on the
Schedule.
"Eligible Receivables" means unconditional Receivables arising in the ordinary
--------------------
course of Borrower's business from the completed sale of goods or rendition of
services, which GBC, in its sole judgment, shall deem eligible for borrowing,
based on such considerations as GBC may from time to time deem appropriate.
"Equipment" means all of Borrower's present and hereafter acquired machinery,
---------
molds, machine tools, motors, furniture, equipment, furnishings, fixtures, trade
fixtures, motor vehicles, tools, parts, dyes, jigs, goods and other tangible
personal property (other than Inventory) of every kind and description used in
Borrower's operations or owned by Borrower and any interest in any of the
foregoing, and all attachments, accessories, accessions, replace-
-8-
<PAGE>
Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ments, substitutions, additions or improvements to any of the foregoing,
wherever located.
"Event of Default" means any of the events set forth in Section 7.1 of this
----------------
Agreement.
"General Intangibles" means all general intangibles of Borrower, whether now
-------------------
owned or hereafter created or acquired by Borrower, including, without
limitation, all choses in action, causes of action, corporate or other business
records. Deposit Accounts, inventions, designs, drawings, blueprints, patents,
patent applications, trademarks and the goodwill of the business symbolized
thereby, names, trade names, trade secrets, goodwill, copyrights, registrations,
licenses, franchises, customer lists, security and other deposits, rights in all
litigation presently or hereafter pending for any cause or claim (whether in
contract, tort or otherwise), and all judgments now or hereafter arising
therefrom, all claims of Borrower against GBC, rights to purchase or sell real
or personal property, rights as a licensor or licensee of any kind, royalties,
telephone numbers, proprietary information, purchase orders, and all insurance
policies and claims (including life insurance, key man insurance, credit
insurance, liability insurance, property insurance and other insurance), tax
refunds and claims, computer programs, discs, tapes and tape files, claims under
guaranties, security interests or other security held by or granted to Borrower,
all rights to indemnification and all other intangible property of every kind
and nature (other than Receivables).
"Guarantor" means any Person who has guaranteed any of the Obligations.
---------
"Inventory" means all of Borrower's now owned and hereafter acquired goods,
---------
merchandise or other personal property wherever located, to be furnished under
any contract of service or held for sale or lease (including all raw materials,
work in process, finished goods and goods in transit), and all materials and
supplies of every kind, nature and description which are or might be used or
consumed in Borrower's business or used in connection with the manufacture,
packing, shipping, advertising, selling or finishing of such goods, merchandise
or other personal property, and all warehouse receipts, documents of title and
other documents representing any of the foregoing.
"LIBOR Rate" means (i) the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate for
----------
deposits in U.S. dollars, as shown each day in The Wall Street Journal (Eastern
Edition) under the caption "Money Rates - London Interbank Offered Rates
(LIBOR)"; or (ii) if the Wall Street Journal does not publish such rate, the
offered one-month rate for deposits in U.S. dollars which appears on the Reuters
Screen LIBO Page as of 10:00 a.m., New York time, each day, provided that if at
--------
least two rates appear on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page on any day, the "LIBOR
Rate" for such day shall be the arithmetic mean of such rates; or (iii) if the
Wall Street Journal does not publish such rate on a particular day and no such
rate appears on the Reuters Screen LIBO Page on such day, the rate per annum at
which deposits in U.S. dollars are offered to the principal London office of The
Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. in the London interbank market at approximately 11:00
A.M., London time, on such day in an amount approximately equal to the
outstanding principal amount of the Loans, for a period of one month, in each of
the foregoing cases as determined in good faith by GBC, which determination
shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
"Obligations" means all present and future Loans, advances, debts,
-----------
liabilities, obligations, guaranties, covenants, duties and indebtedness at any
time owing by Borrower to GBC, whether evidenced by this Agreement or any note
or other instrument or document, whether arising from an extension of credit,
opening of a letter of credit, banker's acceptance, loan, guaranty,
indemnification or otherwise, whether direct or indirect (including, without
limitation, those acquired by assignment and any participation by GBC in
Borrower's debts owing to others), absolute or contingent, due or to become due,
including, without limitation, all interest, charges, expenses, fees, attorneys
fees, expert witness fees, audit fees, letter of credit fees, loan fees,
termination fees, minimum interest charges and any other sums chargeable to
Borrower under this Agreement or under any other present or future instrument or
agreement between Borrower and GBC.
"Permitted Liens" means the following: (i) purchase money security interests
---------------
in specific items of Equipment; (ii) leases of specific items of Equipment;
(iii) liens for taxes not yet payable; (iv) additional security interests and
liens which are subordinate to the security interest in favor of GBC and are
consented to in writing by GBC (which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld); (v) security interests being terminated substantially concurrently
with this Agreement; (vi) liens of materialmen, mechanics, warehousemen,
carriers, or other similar liens arising in the ordinary course of business and
securing obligations which are not delinquent; (vii) liens incurred in
connection with the extension, renewal or refinancing of the indebtedness
secured by liens of the type described above in clauses (i) or (ii) above,
provided that any extension, renewal or replacement lien is limited to the
property encumbered by the existing lien and the principal amount of the
indebtedness being extended, renewed or refinanced does not increase; (viii)
Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities which secure payment of
customs duties in connection with the importation of goods *. GBC will have the
right to require, as a condition to its consent under subparagraph (iv) above,
that the holder of the additional security interest or lien sign an
intercreditor agreement on GBC's then standard form, acknowledge that the
security interest is subordinate to the security interest in favor of GBC, and
agree not to take any action to enforce its subordinate security interest so
long as any Obligations remain outstanding, and that Borrower agree that any
uncured default in any obligation secured by the subordinate security interest
shall also constitute an Event of Default under this Agreement.
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Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
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* ; (IX) A LIEN IN FAVOR OF BANK OF AMERICA IN THE BANK OF AMERICA $400,000
TIME CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT, ACCOUNT #12333-00882, TO SECURE THE OBLIGATIONS OF
BORROWER UNDER A BANK GUARANTY ISSUED BY BANK OF AMERICA RELATING TO THE
SINGAPORE AFFILIATE OF BORROWER, SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY PTE LTD.; AND (X) IN LIEN BY
SILICON VALLEY BANK ("SILICON") IN A $1,000,000 CASH COLLATERAL ACCOUNT AT
SILICON WITH RESPECT TO A MAXIMUM $1,000,0000 LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY IN FAVOR
OF BORROWER AT SILICON (THE "SILICON LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY")
"Person" means any individual, sole proprietorship, partnership, joint
------
venture, trust, unincorporated organization, association, corporation,
government, or any agency or political division thereof, or any other entity.
"Receivables" means all of Borrower's now owned and hereafter acquired
-----------
accounts (whether or not earned by performance), letters of credit, contract
rights, chattel paper, instruments, securities, documents and all other forms of
obligations at any time owing to Borrower, all guaranties and other security
therefor, all merchandise returned to or repossessed by Borrower, and all rights
of stoppage in transit and all other rights or remedies of an unpaid vendor,
lienor or secured party.
Other Terms. All accounting terms used in this Agreement, unless otherwise
-----------
indicated, shall have the meanings given to such terms in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, consistently applied. All other terms
contained in this Agreement, unless otherwise indicated, shall have the meanings
provided by the Code, to the extent such terms are defined therein.
9. GENERAL PROVISIONS
9.1 INTEREST COMPUTATION. In computing interest on the Obligations, all
checks, wire transfers and other items of payment received by GBC (including
proceeds of Receivables and payment of the Obligations in full) shall be deemed
applied by GBC on account of the Obligations three Business Days after receipt
by GBC of immediately available funds. GBC shall not, however, be required to
credit Borrower's account for the amount of any item of payment which is
unsatisfactory to GBC in its discretion, and GBC may charge Borrower's Loan
account for the amount of any item of payment which is returned to GBC unpaid.
9.2 APPLICATION OF PAYMENTS. All payments with respect to the Obligations may
be applied, and in GBC's sole discretion reversed and re-applied, to the
Obligations, in such order and manner as GBC shall determine in its sole
discretion.
9.3 CHARGES TO ACCOUNT. GBC may, in its discretion, require that Borrower pay
monetary Obligations in cash to GBC, or charge them to Borrower's Loan account,
in which event they will bear interest at the same rate applicable to the Loans.
9.4 MONTHLY ACCOUNTINGS. GBC shall provide Borrower monthly with an account
of advances, charges, expenses and payments made pursuant to this Agreement.
Such account shall be deemed correct, accurate and binding on Borrower and an
account stated (except for reverses and reapplications of payments made and
corrections of errors discovered by GBC), unless Borrower notifies GBC in
writing to the contrary within sixty days after each account is rendered,
describing the nature of any alleged errors or admissions.
9.5 NOTICES. All notices to be given under this Agreement shall be in
writing and shall be given either personally * or by reputable private delivery
service or by regular first-class mail, or certified mail return receipt
requested, addressed to GBC or Borrower at the addresses shown in the heading to
this Agreement, or at any other address designated in writing by one party to
the other party. All notices shall be deemed to have been given upon delivery in
the case of notices personally delivered, ** or at the expiration of one
business day following delivery to the private delivery service, or two business
days following the deposit thereof in the United States mail, with postage
prepaid.
* OR BY FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION (AT 310-234-3343 WITH RESPECT TO GBC AND 510-
226-4100 WITH RESPECT TO BORROWER, OR AT ANY OTHER FACSIMILE NUMBER DESIGNATED
IN WRITING BY ONE PARTY TO THE OTHER PARTY)
** OR IMMEDIATELY UPON SENDING AND UPON CONFIRMATION OF RECEIPT IN THE CASE OF
NOTICES DELIVERED BY FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION,
9.6 SEVERABILITY. Should any provision of this Agreement be held by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be void or unenforceable, such defect shall
not affect the remainder of this Agreement, which shall continue in full force
and effect.
9.7 INTEGRATION. This Agreement and such other written agreements, documents
and instruments as may be executed in connection herewith are the final, entire
and complete agreement between Borrower and GBC and supersede all prior and
contemporaneous negotiations and oral representations and agreements, all of
which are merged and integrated in this Agreement. There are no oral
-----------------
understandings, representations or agreements between the parties which are not
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
set forth in this Agreement or in other written agreements signed by the parties
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
in connection herewith.
- ----------------------
9.8 WAIVERS. The failure of GBC at any time or times to require Borrower to
strictly comply with any of the provisions of this Agreement or any other
present or future agreement between Borrower and GBC shall not waive or diminish
any right of GBC later to demand and receive strict compliance therewith. Any
waiver of any default shall not waive or affect any other default, whether prior
or subsequent, and whether or not similar. None of the provisions of this
Agreement or any other agreement now or in the future executed by Borrower and
delivered to GBC shall be deemed to have been waived by any act or
-10-
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Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
knowledge of GBC or its agents or employees, but only by a specific written
waiver signed by an authorized officer of GBC and delivered to Borrower.
Borrower waives demand, protest, notice of protest and notice of default or
dishonor, notice of payment and nonpayment, release, compromise, settlement,
extension or renewal of any commercial paper, instrument, account, General
Intangible, document or guaranty at any time held by GBC on which Borrower is or
may in any way be liable, and notice of any action taken by GBC, unless
expressly required by this Agreement.
9.9 AMENDMENT. The terms and provisions of this Agreement may not be waived
or amended, except in a writing executed by Borrower and a duly authorized
officer of GBC.
9.10 TIME OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence in the performance by Borrower
of each and every obligation under this Agreement.
9.11 ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS. Borrower shall reimburse GBC for all
reasonable attorneys' fees and all filing, recording, search, title insurance,
appraisal, audit, and other reasonable costs incurred by GBC, pursuant to, or in
connection with, or relating to this Agreement (whether or not a lawsuit is
filed), including, but not limited to, any reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
GBC incurs in order to do the following: prepare and negotiate this Agreement
and the documents relating to this Agreement; obtain legal advice in connection
with this Agreement or Borrower; enforce, or seek to enforce, any of its rights;
prosecute actions against, or defend actions by, Account Debtors; commence,
intervene in, or defend any action or proceeding; initiate any complaint to be
relieved of the automatic stay in bankruptcy; file or prosecute any probate
claim, bankruptcy claim, third-party claim, or other claim; examine, audit,
copy, and inspect any of the Collateral or any of Borrower's books and records;
protect, obtain possession of, lease, dispose of, or otherwise enforce GBC's
security interest in, the Collateral; and otherwise represent GBC in any
litigation relating to Borrower. If either GBC or Borrower files any lawsuit
against the other predicated on a breach of this Agreement, the prevailing party
in such action shall be entitled to recover its reasonable costs and attorneys'
fees, including (but not limited to) reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
incurred in the enforcement of, execution upon or defense of any order, decree,
award or judgment. All attorneys' fees and costs to which GBC may be entitled
pursuant to this Paragraph shall immediately become part of Borrower's
Obligations, shall be due on demand, and shall bear interest at a rate equal to
the highest interest rate applicable to any of the Obligations.
9.12 BENEFIT OF AGREEMENT. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding
upon and inure to the benefit of the respective successors, assigns, heirs,
beneficiaries and representatives of Borrower and GBC; provided, however, that
Borrower may not assign or transfer any of its rights under this Agreement
without the prior written consent of GBC, and any prohibited assignment shall be
void. No consent by GBC to any assignment shall release Borrower from its
liability for the Obligations.
9.13 JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY. If Borrower consists of more than one
Person, their liability shall be joint and several, and the compromise of any
claim with, or the release of, any Borrower shall not constitute a compromise
with, or a release of, any other Borrower.
9.14 LIMITATION OF ACTIONS. Any claim or cause of action by Borrower against
GBC, its directors, officers, employees, agents, accountants or attorneys, based
upon, arising from, or relating to this Loan Agreement, or any other present or
future document or agreement, or any other transaction contemplated hereby or
thereby or relating hereto or thereto, or any other matter, cause or thing
whatsoever, occurred, done, omitted or suffered to be done by GBC, its
directors, officers, employees, agents, accountants or attorneys, shall be
barred unless asserted by Borrower by the commencement of an action or
proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction by the filing of a complaint
within one year after the first act, occurrence or omission upon which such
claim or cause of action, or any part thereof, is based, and the service of a
summons and complaint on an officer of GBC, or on any other person authorized to
accept service on behalf of GBC, within thirty (30) days thereafter. Borrower
agrees that such one-year period is a reasonable and sufficient time for
Borrower to investigate and act upon any such claim or cause of action. The one-
year period provided herein shall not be waived, tolled, or extended except by
the written consent of GBC in its sole discretion. This provision shall survive
any termination of this Loan Agreement or any other present or future agreement.
9.15 PARAGRAPH HEADINGS; CONSTRUCTION. Paragraph headings are only used in
this Agreement for convenience. Borrower and GBC acknowledge that the headings
may not describe completely the subject matter of the applicable paragraph, and
the headings shall not be used in any manner to construe, limit, define or
interpret any term or provision of this Agreement. The term "including",
whenever used in this Agreement, shall mean "including (but not limited to)".
This Agreement has been fully reviewed and negotiated between the parties and no
uncertainty or ambiguity in any term or provision of this Agreement shall be
construed strictly against GBC or Borrower under any rule of construction or
otherwise.
9.16 GOVERNING LAW; JURISDICTION; VENUE. This Agreement and all acts and
transactions hereunder and all rights and obligations of GBC and Borrower shall
be governed by the laws of the State of California. As a material part of the
consideration to GBC to enter into this Agreement, Borrower (i) agrees that all
actions and proceedings relating directly or indirectly to this Agreement shall,
at GBC's option, be litigated in courts located within California, and that the
exclusive venue therefor shall be Los Angeles County; (ii) consents to the
jurisdiction and venue of any such court and consents to service of process in
any such action or proceeding by personal delivery or any other method permitted
by law; and (iii) waives any and all rights Borrower may have to object to the
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Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
jurisdiction of any such court, or to transfer or change the venue of any such
action or proceeding.
9.17 MUTUAL WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. BORROWER, SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. AND GBC
EACH HEREBY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING BASED
UPON, ARISING OUT OF, OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO, THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER
PRESENT OR FUTURE INSTRUMENT OR AGREEMENT BETWEEN GBC AND BORROWER OR GBC AND
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V., OR ANY CONDUCT, ACTS OR OMISSIONS OF GBC OR BORROWER OR
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY B.V. OR ANY OF THEIR DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS,
ATTORNEYS OR ANY OTHER PERSONS AFFILIATED WITH GBC OR BORROWER OR SYQUEST
TECHNOLOGY B.V., IN ALL OF THE FOREGOING CASES, WHETHER SOUNDING IN CONTRACT OR
TORT OR OTHERWISE.
Borrower:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
BY /s/
__________________________________
PRESIDENT OR VICE PRESIDENT
BY /s/
__________________________________
SECRETARY OR ASS'T SECRETARY
GBC:
GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
A DIVISION OF NATIONSCREDIT COMMERCIAL
CORPORATION
BY /s/
__________________________________
TITLE PRESIDENT
________________________________
-12-
<PAGE>
[LETTERHEAD OF GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT]
SCHEDULE TO
LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT
BORROWER: SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
ADDRESS: 47071 BAYSIDE PARKWAY
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA 94538
DATE: MARCH 3, 1997
This Schedule is an integral part of the Loan and Security Agreement between
GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT, A DIVISION OF NATIONSCREDIT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION
("GBC") and the above-borrower ("Borrower") of even date.
=============================================================================
1. CREDIT LIMIT
(Section 1.1) An amount not to exceed the lesser of (1) or (2) below:
(1) $30,000,000 at any one time outstanding; or
(2) an amount equal to
(i) 80% of the amount of Borrower's Eligible
Receivables (as defined in Section 8 above), plus
(ii) the lesser of 40% of the Value of Borrower's
Eligible Inventory (as defined in Section 8 above) or
$5,000,000.
"Value," as used herein, means the lower of cost or
wholesale market value.
=============================================================================
2. INTEREST.
INTEREST RATE (Section 1.2):
The interest rate in effect throughout each calendar
month during the term of this Agreement shall be the
highest "LIBOR Rate" in effect during such month, plus
4.825% per annum, provided that the interest rate in
effect in each month shall not be less than 8.00% per
annum, and provided that the interest charged for each
month shall be a minimum of $10,000, regardless of the
amount of the Obligations outstanding. Interest shall
be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year for the
actual number of days elapsed. "LIBOR Rate" has the
meaning set forth in Section 8 above.
-1-
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Greyrock Business Credit Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. FEES (Section 1.3/Section 6.2):
Loan Fee: N/A
Termination Fee: $7,500 per month for each month (or portion thereof)
from the effective date of termination to the Maturity
Date, provided that if Silicon Valley Bank replaces GBC
--------
as the lender to the Borrower in connection with any
such termination of this Agreement, then no Termination
Fee shall be due.
NSF Check Charge: $15.00 per item.
Wire Transfers: $15.00 per transfer
===============================================================================
4. MATURITY DATE
(Section 6.1): MARCH 7, 1998, subject to automatic renewal as provided
in Section 6.1 above, and early termination as provided
in Section 6.2 above.
===============================================================================
5. REPORTING.
(Section 5.2):
Borrower shall provide GBC with the following:
1. Annual financial statements, as soon as available, and
in any event within 90 days following the end of
Borrower's fiscal year, certified by independent
certified public accountants acceptable to GBC.
2. Quarterly unaudited financial statements, as soon as
available, and in any event within 45 days after the
end of each fiscal quarter of Borrower.
3. Monthly Receivable agings, aged by invoice date,
within [0 days after the end of each month relating to
the Receivables and the Netherlands Receivables.
4. Monthly accounts payable agings, aged by invoice date,
and outstanding or held check registers within 10 days
after the end of each month.
===============================================================================
6. BORROWER INFORMATION:
PRIOR NAMES OF
BORROWER
(Section 3.2): None
PRIOR TRADE
NAMES OF BORROWER
(Section 3.2): Tota, SyDos
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Greyrock Business Credit Schedule to Loan and Security Agreement
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXISTING TRADE
NAMES OF BORROWER
(Section 3.2): SyQuest Technology, EZ Store
OTHER LOCATIONS AND
ADDRESSES (Section 3.3): See Exhibit A hereto
MATERIAL ADVERSE
LITIGATION (Section 3.10): None
===============================================================================
7. OTHER COVENANTS:
Borrower shall at all times comply with all of the
following additional covenants:
(1) Concurrently herewith, the Borrower shall provide GBC
with five-year warrants to purchase 333,333 shares of
Preferred stock of the Borrower, at $3.00 per share,
on the terms and conditions in the Warrant to
Purchase Stock and related documents being executed
concurrently with this Agreement; and Borrower shall
provide Silicon with five-year warrants to purchase
166,667 shares of Preferred stock of the Borrower, at
$3.00 per share, on the terms and conditions in the
Warrant to Purchase Stock and related documents being
executed concurrently with this Agreement.
(2) Concurrently herewith, SyQuest Technology Pte Ltd and
SyQuest Technology B.V. shall enter into
reaffirmations of their existing guaranties and
related collateral and security documentation in
favor of GBC, in form and substance satisfactory to
GBC.
Borrower: GBC:
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC. GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT,
a Division of NationsCredit Commercial
By /s/ Corporation
__________________________________
President or Vice President
By /s/
By /s/ __________________________________
___________________________________ Title President
Secretary or Ass't Secretary ________________________________
-3-
<PAGE>
[LETTERHEAD OF GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT]
CERTIFIED RESOLUTION AND INCUMBENCY CERTIFICATE
Borrower: SyQuest Technology, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of
the State of Delaware
Date: March 3, 1997
I, the undersigned, Secretary or Assistant Secretary of the above-named
borrower, a corporation organized under the laws of the state set forth above,
do hereby certify that the following is a full, true and correct copy of
resolutions duly and regularly adopted by the Board of Directors of said
corporation as required by law, and by the by-laws of said corporation, and that
said resolutions are still in full force and effect and have not been in any way
modified, repealed, rescinded, amended or revoked.
RESOLVED, that this corporation borrow from GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT, a
Division of NationsCredit Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), from time to time,
such sum or sums of money as, in the judgment of the officer or officers
hereinafter authorized hereby, this corporation may require.
RESOLVED FURTHER, that any officer of this corporation be, and he or she is
hereby authorized, directed and empowered, in the name of this corporation, to
execute and deliver to GBC, and GBC is requested to accept, the loan
agreements, security agreements, notes, financing statements, and other
documents and instruments providing for such loans and evidencing and/or
securing such loans, with interest thereon, and said authorized officers are
authorized from time to time to execute renewals, extensions and/or amendments
of said loan agreements, security agreements, and other documents and
instruments.
RESOLVED FURTHER, that said authorized officers be and they are hereby
authorized, directed and empowered, as security for any and all indebtedness
of this corporation to GBC, whether arising pursuant to this resolution or
otherwise, to grant, transfer pledge, mortgage, assign, or otherwise
hypothecate to GBC, or deed in trust for its benefit, any property of any and
every kind, belonging to this corporation, including, but not limited to, any
and all real property, accounts, inventory, equipment, general intangibles,
instruments, documents, chattel paper, notes, money, deposit accounts,
furniture, fixtures, goods, and other property of every kind, and to execute
and deliver to GBC any and all grants, transfers, trust receipts, loan or
credit agreements, pledge agreements, mortgages, deeds of trust, financing
statements, security agreements and other hypothecation agreements, which said
instruments and the note or notes and other instruments referred to in the
preceding paragraph may contain such provisions, covenants, recitals and
agreements as GBC may require and said authorized officers may approve, and
the execution thereof by said authorized officers shall be conclusive evidence
of such approval; and that GBC may conclusively rely upon a certified copy of
these resolutions and a certificate of the Secretary or Ass't Secretary of
this corporation as to the officers of this corporation and their offices and
signatures, and continue to conclusively rely on such certified copy of these
resolutions and said certificate for all past, present and future transactions
until written notice of any change hereto or thereto is given to GBC by this
corporation by certified mail, return receipt requested.
RESOLVED FURTHER, that, in connection with the foregoing loans, this
corporation shall issue to GBC and Silicon Valley Bank five-year warrants to
purchase 333,334 shares and 166,667 of Preferred stock of this corporation,
each at $3.00 per share, on the terms and provisions of Silicon's standard
form Warrant to Purchase Stock and related documents, with such changes
therein as GBC and this corporation shall agree; any officer of this
corporation is hereby authorized to execute and deliver such Warrants to
Purchase Stock and related documents, and all documents and instruments
relating thereto, in such form and containing such additional provisions as
said authorized officers may approve, and the execution thereof by said
authorized officers shall be conclusive evidence of such approval.
<PAGE>
GREYROCK BUSINESS CREDIT Certified Resolution
- --------------------------------------------------------
The undersigned further hereby certifies that the following persons are the
duly elected and acting officers of the corporation named above as borrower and
that the following are their actual signatures:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAMES OFFICE(S) ACTUAL SIGNATURES
- ----- --------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Michael K. Clemens * SyQuest Technology /s/
- ------------------ ------------------ -----------------
Henry Montgomery Chief Financial Officer /s/
- ------------------ ------------------ -----------------
Edwin Harper Chief Executive Officer /s/
- ------------------ ------------------ -----------------
</TABLE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand as such Secretary or Assistant
Secretary on the date set forth above.
/s/
__________________________________
Secretary or Assistant Secretary
* Vice President Financial Services/Treasurer/Corporate Secretary
-2-
<PAGE>
AGREEMENT AND REAFFIRMATION OF
CONTINUING GUARANTY
This Agreement and Reaffirmation of Continuing Guaranty is entered into as
of March 3, 1997, between Syquest International B.V. ("SyQuest BV") and SyQuest
Technology (S) Pte. Ltd. ("SyQuest Ltd." and together with SyQuest BV
collectively referred to as the "Guarantors"), on one side, and Greyrock
Business Credit, a Division of NationsCredit Commercial Corporation ("GBC"), on
the other side, with reference to the following facts:
RECITALS
--------
A. SyQuest BV executed and delivered to GBC a Continuing Guaranty and
Waiver dated February 15, 1996 (the "BV Guaranty" and the obligations thereunder
are referred to herein as the "BV Guaranty Obligations"), with respect to the
obligations and indebtedness of SyQuest Technology, Inc., a Delaware corporation
("Debtor") to GBC; and SyQuest Ltd. executed and delivered to GBC a Continuing
Guaranty and Waiver dated March 15, 1996 (the "Ltd. Guaranty" and the
obligations thereunder are referred to herein as the "BV Guaranty Obligations";
such obligations together with the BV Guaranty Obligations are collectively
referred to as the "Guarantor Obligations"), with respect to the obligations and
indebtedness of SyQuest Technology, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Debtor") to
GBC. The BV Guaranty and the Ltd. Guaranty are collectively referred to as the
"Guaranties").
B. In order to collateralize the obligations of SyQuest BV under the BV
Guaranty, SyQuest BV executed and delivered to GBC security agreements and other
collateral agreements regarding, among other items of collateral, inventory and
accounts receivable.
D. Further, in connection with an amended and restated loan and security
agreement between GBC and Debtor being entered into substantially concurrently
herewith, Guarantors agree to reaffirm their Guarantor Obligations in accordance
with the terms and conditions hereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, each of the Guarantors and GBC hereby agree as follows:
1. Each of the Guarantors hereby reaffirms all terms and conditions,
including but not limited to all waivers and consents, contained in the
Guaranties, and agrees that the same shall continue in full force and effect.
2. This Agreement is a part of the Guaranties. This Agreement, the
Guaranties and the other written documents and instruments by Guarantors with or
in favor of GBC set forth in full all of the representations and agreements of
the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
discussions, representations, agreements and understandings between the parties
with respect to the subject matter hereof. GBC's rights and remedies under the
Guaranties, this Agreement, and the other written documents and agreements by
Guarantor with or in favor of GBC are cumulative. This Agreement may not be
modified or amended, nor may any rights hereunder be waived, except in a writing
signed by the parties hereto. This Agreement is being entered into, and shall be
governed by the laws of the State of California.
-1-
<PAGE>
3. Each of the individuals signing on behalf of the parties hereto
represents and warrants, both on behalf of the respective parties and in their
individual capacity that (i) such parties are authorized to enter into, and
perform such parties' obligations under, this Agreement, (ii) the execution,
delivery and performance by such party of this Agreement was validly authorized,
and (iii) this Agreement is enforceable in accordance with its terms.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed and delivered this
Agreement to GBC as of the date first above written.
GUARANTOR:
Syquest International B.V.
By: /s/
______________________________________
Title: Director
____________________________________
GUARANTOR:
By: /s/
______________________________________
Title: Director
____________________________________
AGREED TO:
Greyrock Business Credit, a Division of
NationsCredit Commercial Corporation
By: /s/
______________________________________
Title: President
____________________________________
-2-
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 11.1
SYQUEST TECHNOLOGY, INC.
COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER
---------------------
1997 1996
--------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Net (Loss) $ (68,671) $ (136,651)
Embedded Yield on Preferred Stock (5,300) (5,682)
Preferred stock dividends (1,991) --
Value assigned to warrants 2,550 --
--------- ----------
Net (loss) applicable to common shareholders $ (78,512) $ (142,333)
Common and common equivalent shares outstanding: 34,815 11,497
Basic and Diluted (loss) per share $ (2.25) $ (12.38)
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Prospectuses
constituting part of the Registration Statements on Forms S-3 (Nos. 33-28226,
33-17119, 33-7369) and the Registration Statements on Forms S-8 (Nos. 33-46460,
33-482273, 33-99372) of SyQuest Technology, Inc. of our report dated December
29, 1997, except for Note 14, paragraph 3 which is as of February 17, 1998,
appearing on page 30 of this Form 10-K, Amendment No. 1.
/s/ PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
San Jose, California
February 24, 1998
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.2
CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG, LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
(Form S-8 Nos. 33-46460, 33-484473, 33-99372) pertaining to the 1991 Stock
Option Plan, the 1992 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan and the 1992
Employee Stock Purchase Plan and in the Registration Statement (Form S-3 Nos.
33-28225, 33-17119, 33-7369) of SyQuest Technology, Inc. of our report dated
December 11, 1996, except for Note 1, "Basis of Presentation", paragraph 5, as
to which the date is June 27, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements and schedule of SyQuest Technology, Inc. included in this Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended September 30, 1997.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
San Jose, California
February 24, 1998
