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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____________ to ___________
Commission file number 0-25678
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
(Name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 06-1340090
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. employer
incorporation or organization) identification number)
8917 Fullbright Avenue 91311
Chatsworth, California 91311 (Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)
Issuer's telephone number: (818) 773-9044; (818) 773-0906 (Fax)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, $0.0034 par value
Indicate by checkmark whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be
filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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]
State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held
by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which common equity was
sold, or the average bid and asked prices of such stock, as of a specified date
within the past 60 days: $139,436,000 based on the closing sale price of a share
of Common Stock at March 19, 1999 as reported by The Nasdaq National Market.
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 26,671,831 shares of Common
Stock, $0.0034 par value at March 19, 1999.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
None
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The Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements.
These statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the
forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include,
but are not limited to, those discussed in the Section under Item 1 Description
of Business -- Risk Factors.
Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements,
which reflect management's view only as of the date of this Report. The Company
undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to
reflect subsequent events or circumstances. Readers should also carefully review
the risk factors described in other documents the Company files from time to
time with the Securities and Exchange commission.
As used in this Report, "MRV" or the "Company" refers to MRV
Communications, Inc., its predecessor and its wholly-owned consolidated
subsidiaries, except where the context otherwise indicates. AccelerRouter, Any
Speed to Any Speed Ethernet, EdgeBlaster, EdgeGuardian, Fiber Driver, GigaHub,
MAXserver, MegaStack, MegaSwitch, MegaSwitch II, MegaVision, MRV Communications,
NBase, Network 3000, Network 9000, RouteRunner, West Hills LAN System and Xyplex
are trademarks or trade names of the Company. Trademarks of other companies are
also used in this Report and are the property of their respective owners.
PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
MRV is a leading manufacturer and marketer of optical high speed
networks that integrate switching, routing, remote access and fiber optic
transmission systems. The Company designs, manufactures and sells two groups of
products: (i) computer networking products, primarily Ethernet LAN routing
switches, WAN and remote access devices and (ii) fiber optic components for the
transmission of voice, video and data across enterprise, telecommunications and
cable TV networks. The Company's advanced networking solutions greatly enhance
the functionality of local area network ("LANs") and wide area networks ("WANs")
by reducing network congestion while allowing end users to preserve their legacy
investments in pre-existing networks and providing cost-effective migration
paths to next generation technologies such as Gigabit Ethernet. The Company's
fiber optic components incorporate proprietary technology which delivers high
performance under demanding environmental conditions.
The Company offers a family of network, switching and related products
that enhance LAN performance and facilitate the migration to next generation
technologies such as Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet and Asynchronous Transfer
Mode ("ATM"). MRV's MegaSwitch and GigaFrame families of switching products
range from complete switching systems to stackable switches which upgrade
performance of existing LANs by relieving network congestion without requiring
replacement of existing technologies. In addition, the Company offers
EdgeBlaster, a multi-functional remote access router that connects enterprise
LANs to remote offices and telecommuters securely through the Internet using
virtual private network ("VPN") technology.
The Company complements its switching products with a family of optical
transmission components and modules designed for transmission over fiber optic
cable. These products enable the transmission of voice, data, and video across
fiber and are also used in optical fiber test equipment. The Company's products
include discrete components, such as laser diodes and LEDs, and integrated
components such as transmitters, receivers and transceivers. The Company's
components are used in data networks, telecommunication transmission and access
networks.
The Company's principal executive offices are located at 8943 Fullbright
Avenue, Chatsworth, California 91311 and its telephone and fax numbers are (818)
773-9044 and (818) 773-0906, respectively. The Company maintains Web sites at
"http://www.mrv.com" and "http://www.nbase-xyplex.com." Information contained in
the Company's Web sites shall not be deemed part of this Report.
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BACKGROUND
The Company was organized in July 1988 as MRV Technologies, Inc., a
California corporation and reincorporated in Delaware in April 1992, at which
time it changed its name to MRV Communications, Inc.
On May 1, 1995, the Company acquired certain assets and the distribution
business of Galcom Networking, Ltd. ("Galcom"), a network equipment company
located in Israel. The purchase price paid by the Company was approximately
$900,000 in cash and the assumption of approximately $1,800,000 in liabilities
and debt. In connection with the acquisition of assets from Galcom, the Company
issued to Galcom and certain of its employees five-year warrants to purchase an
aggregate of 300,000 shares at prices ranging from $4.25 to $7.38 per share.
On June 29, 1995, the Company acquired certain assets and the
distribution business of Ace 400 Communications Ltd. ("Ace"), a network
equipment company also located in Israel. The purchase price paid by the Company
was approximately $4,477,000 comprised of $100,000 in cash, the assumption of
approximately $467,000 in liabilities and debt and the issuance of approximately
855,000 shares of Common Stock valued at approximately $3,910,000 and extended a
right to Ace to sell to the Company up to $400,000 of Ace's inventory. In
connection with the acquisition of assets from Ace, the Company issued to the
trustee and an employee of Ace five-year warrants to purchase an aggregate of
330,000 shares of Common Stock at prices ranging from $4.57 to $4.67 per share.
The Galcom and Ace acquisitions provided the Company with experienced
personnel and technology for the Token Ring LAN, IBM Connectivity and
Multi-Platform, Network Management IBM NetView and HP OpenView markets.
Following the acquisitions, the Company consolidated these operations in Israel
with its networking operations in the U.S.
On September 26, 1996, the Company completed an acquisition (the
"Fibronics Acquisition") from Elbit Ltd. ("Elbit") of certain of the assets and
selected liabilities of Elbit's wholly-owned subsidiary, Fibronics Ltd. and its
subsidiaries (collectively "Fibronics") related to Fibronics' computer
networking and telecommunications businesses (the "Fibronics Business") in
Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Israel. The
assets acquired included Fibronics' technology in progress and existing
technology, its marketing channels, its GigaHub family of computer networking
products and other rights. The purchase price for the Fibronics Business was
approximately $22,800,000. The purchase price was paid using a combination of
cash and shares of Common Stock, all of which Elbit subsequently resold in the
open market.
The Fibronics Business has enabled MRV to enhance the development of
Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet functions through the Fibronics GigaHub
family of products, to offer a broader range of networking products and to
benefit from combined distribution channels and sales in both the United States
and Europe and greater product development capability.
On January 30, 1998, MRV completed an acquisition from Whittaker
Corporation ("Whittaker") of all of the outstanding capital stock of Whittaker
Xyplex, Inc. a Delaware corporation (the "Xyplex Acquisition"). Whittaker
Xyplex, Inc. (whose name the Company has since changed to NBase Xyplex, Inc.),
is a holding corporation owning all of the outstanding capital stock of Xyplex,
Inc., a Massachusetts corporation ("Xyplex"). Xyplex is a leading provider of
access solutions between enterprise networks and wide area network and/or
Internet service providers ("ISPs"). The purchase price paid to Whittaker
consisted of $35,000,000 in cash and three-year warrants to purchase up
to 421,402 shares of Common Stock of the Company at an exercise price of $35 per
share.
The Xyplex Acquisition is enabling MRV to expand its product lines with
products that have WAN and remote access capabilities, permitting the Company to
offer both discrete networking products and complete LAN/WAN end-to-end
solutions not only to MRV's own existing base of customers, but also to the
customer base added by Xyplex. The acquisition of Xyplex has also increased
MRV's sales force, distribution channels and customer support and service
capabilities.
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RISK FACTORS
The Company may from time to time make written or oral forward-looking
statements. Written forward-looking statements may appear in documents filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in press releases, and in reports
to shareholders. The Private Securities Reform Act of 1995 contains a safe
harbor for forward-looking statements on which the Company relies in making such
disclosures. In connection with this "safe harbor" the Company is hereby
identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ
materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements made by or on
behalf of the Company. Any such statement is qualified by reference to the
following cautionary statements:
Risks of Technological Change; Development Delays. The Company is
engaged in the design and development of devices for the computer networking,
telecommunications and fiber optic communication industries. As with any new
technologies, there are substantial risks that the marketplace may not accept
the Company's new products. Market acceptance of the Company's products will
depend, in large part, upon the ability of the Company to demonstrate
performance and cost advantages and cost-effectiveness of its products over
competing products and the success of the sales efforts of the Company and its
customers. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to continue
to market its technology successfully or that any of the Company's current or
future products will be accepted in the marketplace. Moreover, the computer
networking, telecommunications and fiber optic communication industries are
characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards and
frequent new product introductions, any of which could render the Company's
existing products obsolete. The Company's success will depend upon its ability
to enhance existing products and to introduce new products to meet changing
customer requirements and emerging industry standards. The Company will be
required to devote continued efforts and financial resources to develop and
enhance its existing products and conduct research to develop new products. The
development of new, technologically advanced products is a complex and uncertain
process requiring high levels of innovation, as well as the accurate
anticipation of technological and market trends. There can be no assurance that
the Company will be able to identify, develop, manufacture, market or support
new or enhanced products successfully or on a timely basis, that new Company
products will gain market acceptance or that the Company will be able to respond
effectively to product announcements by competitors, technological changes or
emerging industry standards. Furthermore, from time to time, the Company may
announce new products or product enhancements, capabilities or technologies that
have the potential to replace or shorten the life cycle of the Company's
existing product offerings and that may cause customers to defer purchasing
existing Company products or cause customers to return products to the Company.
Complexity of Product and Product Defects. Complex products, such as
those offered by the Company, may contain undetected software or hardware errors
when first introduced or when new versions are released. While the Company has
not experienced such errors in the past, the occurrence of such errors in the
future, and the inability to correct such errors, could result in the delay or
loss of market acceptance of the Company's products, material warranty expense,
diversion of engineering and other resources from the Company's product
development efforts and the loss of credibility with the Company's customers,
system integrators and end users, any of which could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's business, operating results and financial condition.
Potential Fluctuations in Operating Results. The Company expects that in
the future it revenues may grow at a slower rate than was experienced in
previous periods and that on a quarter-to-quarter basis, the Company's growth in
revenue may be significantly lower than its historical quarterly growth rates.
As a consequence, operating results for a particular quarter are extremely
difficult to predict. The Company's revenue and operating results could
fluctuate substantially from quarter to quarter and from year to year. This
could result from any one or a combination of factors such as the cancellation
or postponement of orders, the timing and amount of significant orders from the
Company's largest customers, the Company's success in developing, introducing
and shipping product enhancements and new products, the product mix sold by the
Company, adverse effects to the Company's financial statements resulting from,
or necessitated by, past and possible future acquisitions, new product
introductions by the Company's competitors, pricing actions by the Company or
its competitors, the timing of delivery and availability of components from
suppliers, changes in material costs and general economic
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conditions. Moreover, the volume and timing of orders received during a quarter
are difficult to forecast. From time to time, the Company's customers encounter
uncertain and changing demand for their products. Customers generally order
based on their forecasts. If demand falls below such forecasts or if customers
do not control inventories effectively, they may cancel or reschedule shipments
previously ordered from the Company. The Company's expense levels during any
particular period are based, in part, on expectations of future sales. If sales
in a particular quarter do not meet expectations, operating results could be
materially adversely affected. Moreover, in certain instances, sales cycles are
becoming longer and more uncertain as MRV bids on larger projects. As a result,
MRV is finding it more difficult to predict the timing of the awards of
contracts and the actual placement of orders stemming from awards. There can be
no assurance that these factors or others, such as those discussed in
"International Operations" or those discussed immediately below would not cause
future fluctuations in operating results. Further, there can be no assurance
that the Company will be able to continue profitable operations.
Share Prices Have Been and May Continue to Be Highly Volatile.
Historically, the market price of the Company's Common Stock has been extremely
volatile. The market price of the Common Stock is likely to continue to be
highly volatile and could be significantly affected by factors such as actual or
anticipated fluctuations in the Company's operating results, announcement of
technological innovations or new product introductions by the Company or its
competitors, changes of estimates of the Company's future operating results by
securities analysts, developments with respect to patents, copyrights or
proprietary rights, general market conditions and other factors. In addition,
the stock market has from time to time experienced significant price and volume
fluctuations that have particularly affected the market prices for the common
stocks of technology companies. These broad market fluctuations may adversely
affect the market price of the Company's Common Stock. In addition, it is
possible that in a future fiscal quarter, the Company's results of operations
will fail to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors and, in
such event, the market price of the Company's Common Stock would be materially
adversely affected. For example, as a result of some of the factors discussed in
"-- Potential Fluctuations in Operating Results" above, specifically, weaker
than anticipated demand for its networking products, especially in Europe, and
delays in its transitions to next generation, higher margin, networking
products, in August 1998, MRV announced that it expected operating results in
the third quarter of 1998 to be adversely affected. Following that announcement,
the market price of the Company's Common Stock dropped substantially. Similarly,
in February 1999 following its release of fourth quarter and 1998 financial
results, the Company announced it did not expect revenues in the first quarter
of 1999 to be as strong as revenues reported for the fourth quarter of 1998 and
the market price of the Company's Common Stock again dropped significantly. See
Item 5. Market for Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters.
Competition and Industry Consolidation. The markets for fiber optic
components and network products are intensely competitive and subject to
frequent product introductions with improved price/performance characteristics,
rapid technological change and the continual emergence of new industry
standards. The Company competes and will compete with numerous types of
companies including companies which have been established for many years and
have considerably greater financial, marketing, technical, human and other
resources, as well as greater name recognition and a larger installed customer
base, than the Company. This may give such competitors certain advantages,
including the ability to negotiate lower prices on raw materials and components
than those available to the Company. In addition, many of the Company's large
competitors offer customers broader product lines which provide more
comprehensive solutions than the Company currently offers. The Company expects
that other companies will also enter markets in which the Company competes.
Increased competition could result in significant price competition, reduced
profit margins or loss of market share. There can be no assurance that the
Company will be able to compete successfully with existing or future competitors
or that competitive pressures faced by the Company will not materially and
adversely affect the business, operating results and financial condition of the
Company. In particular, the Company expects that prices on many of its products
will continue to decrease in the future and that the pace and magnitude of such
price decreases may have an adverse impact on the results of operations or
financial condition of the Company.
There has been a trend toward industry consolidation for several years.
The Company expects this trend toward industry consolidation to continue as
companies attempt to strengthen or hold their market positions in an evolving
industry.
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The Company believes that industry consolidation may provide stronger
competitors that are better able to compete. This could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's business, operating results and financial condition.
Management of Growth. The Company has grown rapidly in recent years,
with revenues increasing from $17,526,000 for the year ended December 31, 1994,
to $39,202,000 for the year ended December 31, 1995, $88,815,000 for the year
ended December 31, 1996, $165,471,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997 and
$264,075,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998. The Company's recent growth,
both internally and through the acquisitions it has made since January 1, 1995,
has placed a significant strain on the Company's financial and management
personnel and information systems and controls, and the Company must implement
new and enhance existing financial and management information systems and
controls and must add and train personnel to operate such systems effectively.
While the strain placed on the Company's personnel and systems has not had a
material adverse effect on the Company to date, there can be no assurance that a
delay or failure to implement new and enhance existing systems and controls will
not have such an effect in the future. The Company's recent growth through the
acquisitions of the Fibronics Business and Xyplex discussed in "Risks Associated
with Recent Acquisitions" below and its intention to continue to pursue its
growth strategy through efforts to increase sales of existing and new products
can be expected to place even greater pressure on the Company's existing
personnel and compound the need for increased personnel, expanded information
systems, and additional financial and administrative control procedures. There
can be no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully manage
expanding operations.
Risks Associated With Recent Acquisitions. On September 26, 1996, the
Company completed the Fibronics Acquisition from Elbit of certain of the assets
and selected liabilities of Fibronics related to Fibronics' computer networking
and telecommunications businesses in Germany, the United States, the United
Kingdom, the Netherlands and Israel. The assets acquired included Fibronics'
technology in progress and existing technology, its marketing channels, its
GigaHub family of computer networking products and other rights. The purchase
price for the Fibronics Business was approximately $22,800,000, which was paid
using a combination of cash and Common Stock of the Company. During the years
ended December 31, 1994 and 1995, and the period from January 1, 1996 through
September 25, 1996 (the day the Fibronics Business was acquired by the Company),
the Fibronics Business reported net revenues of $33,355,000, $35,003,000 and
$19,481,000, respectively, and net income (losses) of $(11,557,000), $79,000 and
$(6,143,000), respectively. In connection with the Fibronics Acquisition, the
Company incurred charges of $17,795,000, $6,974,000 and $5,200,000 for purchased
technology, restructuring and interest expense related to financing,
respectively. These charges caused the Company to incur a net loss of $9,654,000
for the year ended December 31, 1996.
On January 30, 1998, MRV completed the Xyplex Acquisition from
Whittaker. Xyplex is a leading provider of access solutions between enterprise
networks and WAN and/or Internet service providers ("ISPs"). The purchase price
paid to Whittaker consisted of $35,000,000 in cash and three-year warrants to
purchase up to 421,402 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise
price of $35 per share. During the year ended December 31, 1995, the period from
January 1, 1996 through April 9, 1996 (the day Xyplex was acquired by
Whittaker), the period from April 10, 1996 through October 31, 1996 and the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, Xyplex reported net revenues of
$107,617,000, $28,100,000, $52,021,000, and $75,663,000, respectively, and net
losses of $37,360,000, $2,269,000, $13,353,000 and $80,309,000, respectively. In
connection with the Xyplex Acquisition, the Company incurred charges of
$20,633,000 and $15,671,000 for purchased technology and restructuring during
the year ended December 31, 1998. While the Xyplex Acquisition added 11 months
of Xyplex' revenues to those of the Company, the charges resulting from the
Xyplex Acquisition resulted in MRV incurring a net loss of $20,106,000 or $0.86
per share during the year ended December 31, 1998.
MRV originally recorded charges of $30,571,000 related to research and
development projects in progress at the time of the Xyplex Acquisition. Although
MRV reported these charges and its first, second and third quarter results of
1998 in accordance with established accounting practice and valuations of
Xyplex' purchased technology in progress provided by independent valuators,
these valuations have been reconsidered in light of very recent Securities and
Exchange Commission guidance regarding valuation methodology. Based on this new
valuation methodology, MRV has reduced the value of the purchased technology in
progress related to the Xyplex Acquisition to $20,633,000 and has increased the
amount of goodwill
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by $9,938,000. This has resulted in additional charges during 1998 of $759,000
for amortization of intangibles, including goodwill, resulting from the Xyplex
Acquisition and will result in charges of approximately $828,000 annually as
these intangibles are amortized through January 2010.
Recent actions and comments from the Securities and Exchange Commission
have indicated that the Commission is reviewing the current valuation
methodology of purchased in-process research and development related to business
combinations. Unlike the case of many other companies, the Commission has not
notified MRV of any plans to review MRV's methodology for valuing purchased
in-process research and development. The Company's action to reconsider that
valuation of in process research and development related to the Xyplex
Acquisition has been voluntary. The Company believes it is in compliance with
all of the rules and related guidance as they currently exist. However, there
can be no assurance that the Commission will not review MRV's accounting for the
Xyplex Acquisition and seek to apply retroactively new guidance and further
reduce the amount of purchased in-process research and development expensed by
the Company. This would result in an additional restatement of previously filed
financial statements of the Company and could have a material adverse impact on
financial results for periods subsequent to the acquisition.
International Operations. International sales have become an
increasingly important segment of the Company's operations, with the
acquisitions of Galcom and Ace in 1995, the Fibronics Business in 1996 and
Xyplex in 1998. Approximately 53%, 60% and 59%, respectively, of the Company's
net revenues for the years ended December 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively,
were from sales to customers in foreign countries. The Company has offices in,
and conducts a significant portion of its operations in and from, Israel. MRV
is, therefore, directly influenced by the political and economic conditions
affecting Israel. Any major hostilities involving Israel, the interruption or
curtailment of trade between Israel and its trading partners or a substantial
downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's operations. Sales to foreign customers are
subject to government controls and other risks associated with international
sales, including difficulties in obtaining export licenses, fluctuations in
currency exchange rates, inflation, political instability, trade restrictions
and changes in duty rates. Although the Company has not experienced any material
difficulties in this regard to date, there can be no assurance that it will not
experience any such material difficulties in the future. The Company's sales are
currently denominated in U.S. dollars and to date its business has not been
significantly affected by currency fluctuations or inflation. However, the
Company conducts business in several different countries and thus fluctuations
in currency exchange rates could cause the Company's products to become
relatively more expensive in particular countries, leading to a reduction in
sales in that country. In addition, inflation or fluctuations in currency
exchange rates in such countries could increase the Company's expenses. The
Single European Currency (Euro) was introduced on January 1, 1999 with complete
transition to this new currency required by January 2002. The Company has made
and expects to continue to make changes to its internal systems in order to
accommodate doing business in the Euro. Any delays in the Company's ability to
be Euro-compliant could have an adverse impact on the Company's results of
operations or financial condition. To date, the Company has not hedged against
currency exchange risks. In the future, the Company may engage in foreign
currency denominated sales or pay material amounts of expenses in foreign
currencies and, in such event, may experience gains and losses due to currency
fluctuations. The Company's operating results could be adversely affected by
such fluctuations or as a result of inflation in particular countries where
material expenses are incurred. Moreover, the Company's operating results could
also be adversely affected by seasonality of international sales, which are
typically lower in Asia in the first calendar quarter and in Europe in the third
calendar quarter. These international factors could have a material adverse
effect on future sales of the Company's products to international end-users and,
consequently, the Company's business, operating results and financial condition.
Slowdown in Industry Growth Rates. The Company's success is dependent,
in part, on the overall growth rate of the networking industry. In 1997 and
1998, industry growth was below historical rates according to industry reports.
There can be no assurance that the networking industry will continue to grow or
that it will achieve higher growth rates. The Company's business, operating
results or financial condition may be adversely affected by any further decrease
in industry growth rates. In addition, there can be no assurance that the
Company's results in any particular period will fall within the ranges for
growth forecast by market researchers.
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Manufacturing And Dependence on Suppliers And Third Party Manufacturers.
The Company uses internally developed Application Specific Integrated Circuits
("ASICs"), which provide the functionality of multiple integrated circuits in
one chip, in the manufacture of its LAN switching products. To develop ASICs
successfully, the Company must transfer a code of instructions to a single mask
from which low cost duplicates can be made. Each iteration of a mask involves a
substantial upfront cost, which costs can adversely affect the Company's result
of operations and financial condition if errors or "bugs" occur following
multiple duplication of the masks. While the Company has not experienced
material expenses to date as a result of errors discovered in ASIC masks,
because of the complexity of the duplication process and the difficulty in
detecting errors, the Company could suffer a material adverse effect to its
operating results and financial condition if errors in developing ASICs were to
occur in the future. Moreover, the Company currently relies on a single,
unaffiliated foundry, Chip Express, to fabricate its ASICs. The Company does not
have a long-term supply contract with Chip Express, any other ASIC vendor or any
other of its limited source vendors, purchasing all of such components on a
purchase order basis under standard terms of sale. While the Company believes it
would be able to obtain alternative sources of supply for the ASICs or other key
components, a change in ASIC or other suppliers of key components could require
a significant lead time and, therefore, could result in a delay in product
shipments. While the Company has not experienced delays in the receipt of ASICs
or other key components, any future difficulty in obtaining any of these key
components could result in delays or reductions in product shipments which, in
turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, operating
results and financial condition.
The Company outsources the board-level assembly, test and quality
control of material, components, subassemblies and systems relating to its
networking products to third party contract manufacturers. Though there are a
large number of contract manufacturers which the Company can use for its
outsourcing, it has elected to use a limited number of vendors for a significant
portion of board assembly requirements in order to foster consistency in quality
of the products. These independent third party manufacturers also provide these
services to other companies. Risks associated with the use of independent
manufacturers include unavailability of or delays in obtaining adequate supplies
of products and reduced control of manufacturing quality and production costs.
If the Company's contract manufacturers fail to deliver products in the future
on a timely basis, or at all, it could be difficult for the Company to obtain
adequate supplies of products from other sources in the near term. There can be
no assurance that the Company's third party manufacturers will provide adequate
supplies of quality products on a timely basis, or at all. While the Company
could outsource with other vendors, a change in vendors may require significant
lead time and may result in shipment delays and expenses. The inability to
obtain such products on a timely basis, the loss of a vendor or a change in the
terms and conditions of the outsourcing would have a material adverse effect on
the Company's business, operating results and financial condition.
The Company relies almost exclusively on its own production capability
for critical semiconductor lasers and light emitting diodes ("LEDs") used in its
products. Because the Company manufactures these and other key components of its
products at its own facility and such components are not readily available from
other sources, any interruption of the Company's manufacturing process could
have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations. Furthermore, the
Company has a limited number of employees dedicated to the operation and
maintenance of its wafer fabrication equipment, the loss of any of whom could
result in the Company's inability to effectively operate and service such
equipment. Wafer fabrication is sensitive to many factors, including variations
and impurities in the raw materials, the fabrication process, performance of the
manufacturing equipment, defects in the masks used to print circuits on the
wafer and the level of contaminants in the manufacturing environment. There can
be no assurance that the Company will be able to maintain acceptable production
yields and avoid product shipment delays. In the event adequate production
yields are not achieved, resulting in product shipment delays, the Company's
business, operating results and financial condition could be materially
adversely affected.
Risks Associated with Potential Future Acquisitions. An important
element of management's strategy is to review acquisition prospects that would
complement the Company's existing products, augment its market coverage and
distribution ability or enhance its technological capabilities. Accordingly, the
Company may acquire additional businesses, products or
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<PAGE> 9
technologies in the future. Future acquisitions by the Company could result in
charges similar to those incurred in connection with the Fibronics Acquisition
and the Xyplex Acquisition, potentially dilutive issuances of equity securities,
the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities and amortization expenses
related to goodwill and other intangible assets, any of which could materially
adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and results of
operations. Acquisitions entail numerous risks, including the assimilation of
the acquired operations, technologies and products, diversion of management's
attention to other business concerns, risks of entering markets in which the
Company has no or limited prior experience, the potential loss of key employees
of acquired organizations and difficulties in honoring commitments made to
customers by management of the acquired entity prior to the acquisition. Prior
to the Fibronics Acquisition, management had only limited experience in
assimilating acquired organizations. There can be no assurance as to the ability
of the Company to successfully integrate the products, technologies or personnel
of any business that might be acquired in the future, and the failure of the
Company to do so could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business,
financial condition and results of operations.
Present Lack of Patent Protection; Dependence on Proprietary Technology.
The Company holds no patents and only recently has filed two patent applications
and a provisional patent application in the United States with respect to
certain aspects of its technology. With the Xyplex Acquisition, MRV acquired
five additional provisional patent applications filed by Xyplex on certain
aspects of its technology. The Company currently relies on copyrights, trade
secrets and unpatented proprietary know-how, which may be duplicated by others.
The Company employs various methods, including confidentiality agreements with
employees and suppliers, to protect its proprietary know-how. Such methods may
not afford complete protection, however, and there can be no assurance that
others will not independently develop such know-how or obtain access to it or
independently develop technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior
to the Company's technology. In the event that protective measures are not
successful, the Company's business, operating results and financial condition
could be materially and adversely affected. In addition, the laws of some
foreign countries do not protect the Company's proprietary rights to the same
extent as do the laws of the United States. There can be no assurance that any
patents will be issued as a result of the pending applications, including the
provisional patent application, or any future patent applications, or, if
issued, will provide the Company with meaningful protection from competition. In
addition, there can be no assurance that any patents issued to the Company will
not be challenged, invalidated or circumvented. The electronics industry has
been characterized by extensive litigation regarding patents and other
intellectual property rights, and companies in the electronics industry have
employed intellectual property litigation to gain a competitive advantage. Since
United States patent applications are presently maintained in secrecy until
patents issue and since the publication of inventions in technical or patent
literature tends to lag behind such patent application filings by several
months, the Company cannot be certain that it was the first inventor of
inventions covered by pending United States patent applications or that the
Company is not infringing on the patents of others. Litigation may be necessary
to enforce any patents that may be issued to the Company or other intellectual
property rights of the Company, to protect the Company's trade secrets, to
determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others or to
defend against claims of infringement. Such litigation could result in
substantial costs and diversion of resources and could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations
regardless of the final outcome of such litigation. In the event that any of the
Company's products are found to infringe on the intellectual property rights of
third parties, the Company would be required to seek a license with respect to
such patented technology, or incur substantial costs to redesign the infringing
products. There can be no assurance that any such license would be available on
terms acceptable to the Company or at all, that any of the Company's products
could be redesigned on an economical basis or at all, or that any such
redesigned products would be competitive with the products of the Company's
competitors.
For a discussion of the intellectual property claims and litigation in
which the Company is currently involved, see Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
Risks From Year 2000 Issues. Many existing computer programs, including
some programs used by the Company, use only two digits to identify a year in the
date field. These programs were designed without considering the impact of the
upcoming change in the century. If not corrected, these computer applications
and systems could fail or create erroneous
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<PAGE> 10
results by, at, or after the year 2000. Based on the Company's investigation to
date, management believes that Year 2000 readiness compliance will occur before
January 1, 2000 and does not anticipate that the Company will incur material
operating expenses or be required to incur material costs to be year 2000
compliant. See Item 7. Management `s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations -- Year 2000 Issues. The dates on which the
Company believes the Year 2000 Compliance Program ("Y2K Program") will be
completed are based on management's estimates, which were derived utilizing
numerous assumptions of future events, including the continued availability of
certain resources, third-party modification plans and other factors. However,
there can be no guarantee that all Year 2000 issues have been identified and
would be addressed by the Y2K Program, that the estimates of the Y2K Program
will be achieved, or that there will not be a delay in, or increased costs
associated with, the implementation of the Y2K Program. Specific factors that
might cause differences between the estimates and actual results include, but
are not limited to, the availability and cost of personnel trained in these
areas, the ability to locate and correct all relevant computer code, timely
responses to and corrections by third-parties and suppliers of their Year 2000
issues and similar uncertainties. Due to the general uncertainty inherent in the
Year 2000 problem, resulting in part from the uncertainty of the Year 2000
readiness of third-parties and the interconnection of global businesses, the
Company cannot ensure its ability to timely and cost-effectively resolve
problems associated with the Year 2000 issue that may affect its operations and
business, or expose it to third-party liability.
Year 2000 compliance is an issue for virtually all businesses whose
computer systems and applications may require significant hardware and software
upgrades or modifications. Companies owning and operating such systems may plan
to devote a substantial portion of their information systems' spending to fund
such upgrades and modifications and divert spending away from networking or
fiber optic solutions. Such changes in customers' spending patterns could have a
material adverse impact on the Company's sales, operating results or financial
condition.
Dependence on Key Personnel. The Company is substantially dependent upon
a number of key employees, including Dr. Shlomo Margalit, its Chairman of the
Board of Directors and Chief Technical Officer, Dr. Zeev Rav-Noy, its Chief
Operating Officer, and Noam Lotan, its President and Chief Executive Officer.
The loss of the services of any one or more of these officers could have a
material adverse effect on the Company. The Company has entered into employment
agreements with each officer and owns and is the beneficiary of key man life
insurance policies in the amounts of $1,000,000 each on the lives of Drs.
Margalit and Rav-Noy and Mr. Lotan. There can be no assurance that the proceeds
from these policies will be sufficient to compensate the Company in the event of
the death of any of these individuals, and the policies do not cover the Company
in the event that any of them becomes disabled or is otherwise unable to render
services to the Company.
Attraction And Retention of Qualified Personnel. The Company's ability
to develop, manufacture and market its products and its ability to compete with
its current and future competitors depends, and will depend, in large part, on
its ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. Competition for qualified
personnel in the networking and fiber optics industries is intense, and the
Company will be required to compete for such personnel with companies having
substantially greater financial and other resources than the Company. If the
Company should be unable to attract and retain qualified personnel, the business
of the Company could be materially adversely affected. There can be no assurance
that the Company will be able to attract and retain qualified personnel.
Possible Issuance of Preferred Stock; Anti-takeover Provisions. The
Company is authorized to issue up to 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par
value $.01 per share (the "Preferred Stock"). The Preferred Stock may be issued
in one or more series, the terms of which may be determined at the time of
issuance by the Board of Directors without further action by stockholders. The
terms of any such series of preferred stock may include voting rights (including
the right to vote as a series on particular matters), preferences as to
dividend, liquidation, conversion and redemption rights and sinking fund
provisions. No preferred stock is currently outstanding. The issuance of any
such preferred stock could materially adversely affect the rights of the holders
of Common Stock, and therefore, reduce the value of the Common Stock. In
particular, specific rights granted to future holders of preferred stock could
be used to restrict the Company's ability to merge with, or sell its assets to,
a third party, thereby preserving control of the Company by the present owners.
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Forward-looking Statements. This Report contains forward-looking
statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section
21E of the Exchange Act. Such forward-looking statements may be deemed to
include the Company's plans to develop and offer new and enhanced networking and
optical transmission products and its efforts to expand its customer base. Such
forward-looking statements may also be deemed to include the Company's
expectations concerning factors affecting the markets for its products, the
growth in those markets in general, the timing of new product introductions by
the Company and anticipated benefits from such product introductions or
technological developments. Such forward-looking statements also may include the
Company's expectations of benefits from the acquisition of Xyplex or its OEM or
other arrangements with certain of its customers. Actual results could differ
from those projected in any forward-looking statements for, among other things,
the reasons detailed in the other sections of this "Risk Factors" portion of
this Report. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this
Report and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking
statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those
projected in the forward-looking statements.
INDUSTRY BACKGROUND
The global communications industry has undergone significant
transformation and growth as a result of increased demand for communications
services and applications, as well as advances in technology and changes in
network architectures and public policy. The client server network architecture
with its shared information and resources, the increased power of conventional
applications as well as the proliferation of graphic intensive applications such
as multimedia, the Internet and intranets, have resulted in a strong demand for
additional bandwidth. This trend is expected to continue as additional bandwidth
intensive applications, such as video conferencing, are increasingly used.
Further, as a result of changes in communications regulations and the adoption
of common standards, enterprise networks, such as LANs and WANs, and access
networks, such as telecommunications and cable TV, are expected to converge. The
demand for high bandwidth applications, as well as the convergence of data
communications and telecommunications, has significantly increased the
requirement for networking and fiber optic equipment that increases the capacity
of networks through high speed and more efficient transmission technologies.
High-speed switching systems enhance the bandwidth of LANs so that a
greater number of users can utilize more complex applications without
experiencing network congestion. Fiber optic transmission components also
enhance the functionality of enterprise and access networks by enabling
high-speed transmission of voice, video and data across fiber optic cable.
Market research firms forecast growth in both of these sectors. In 1997 and
1998, however, networking industry growth was below historical rates according
to industry reports. There can be no assurance that the networking industry will
continue to grow or that it will achieve higher growth rates. The Company's
business, operating results or financial condition may be adversely affected by
any further decrease in industry growth rates.
Growth in the use and availability of wide area networks is being
stimulated by many factors including the need to share information between
centralized repositories and remote enterprise locations, to access and use the
Internet for communications and marketing and to electronically access external
resources used by the enterprise. Growth is also being fueled by the increasing
availability of more cost-effective WAN services such as Frame Relay and
Integrated Service Digital Network ("ISDN") making it more affordable for many
organizations to set up a WAN or expand an existing one. The growth in the use
and availability of wide area networks coupled with increasing use, power, speed
and complexity of local area networks has resulted in the increasing need for
equipment that permits high speed connections between LANs, WANs and ISPs.
NETWORKING ENVIRONMENT
The most common LAN architecture, "shared-media" networking, cannot
effectively accommodate the market's requirements for high-speed networking.
Shared-media networks require computers to alternate communication over a single
LAN, thereby allowing a computer to send information only when other computers
are not doing so. As more computers are
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added to a single LAN, demand for access to the network increases and, as a
result, individual users experience slower network response times and data
transfer rates. Most of these networks operate with the Ethernet protocol, which
is significantly less expensive than the closest competing technology, Token
Ring.
There are two fundamentally different but complementary approaches to
alleviating network congestion. The first approach, referred to as
"segmentation," reduces the number of desktops connected to a single LAN
segment, which increases the available bandwidth per user. The segmentation of
users into smaller LANs alleviates network congestion by allowing fewer users to
share a given amount of capacity. The second approach is to increase the
capacity of networks through new high-speed transmission technologies and high
bandwidth fiber optic applications. LAN switching technology is an innovation
that enables both of these solutions. A switch is a device that partitions a
network into multiple segments which enables several simultaneous
"conversations," thereby reducing the traffic on each segment while allowing
access to the entire network. A switch also allows connection with different
speeds, thereby facilitating faster backbones and migration to faster
technologies.
Enhanced LAN Performance through Segmentation and Switching. LAN
switching systems have emerged as the preferred method for segmenting networks
because these systems are implemented more easily, efficiently and
cost-effectively than hub architectures which once dominated the networking
equipment industry. In contrast to hubs, which indiscriminately forward data to
all ports, Ethernet switches only forward network traffic to the designated
receiving port or ports. Ethernet switches can also support different data rates
on different ports with some ports operating at 10 Mbps and others at
substantially higher speeds, thus enabling Any Speed to Any Speed Ethernet
transmission. A major driver to the growth in Ethernet switching is the large
installed base. Ethernet is the dominant LAN architecture. As a result, Ethernet
switching offers fast and cost-effective upgrades without impacting network
performance or requiring infrastructure changes to existing cabling and network
adapters. Switching also allows LANs based on different architectures, such as
Ethernet and Token Ring, to be connected efficiently and allows these systems to
access servers and backbones which use a variety of high-speed technologies,
such as Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Fiber Distributed Data Interface
("FDDI") and ATM.
Another important benefit of switches is their ability to combine groups
of computers into virtual LANs ("VLANs"). As a result, workgroups can be set up
according to business relationships rather than physical proximity. Unlike hub
and router systems, which require segment users to be physically grouped
together, VLANs simplify network administration as users relocate. VLANs can
also be used for controlling bandwidth and directing excess capacity to
workgroups and users as needed. Moreover, by confining traffic to desired
workgroups, VLANs improve network security.
Enhanced LAN Performance Through High-speed Transmission Technologies
and Switching. While Ethernet switching is being used to increase the efficiency
of existing capacity, switching technology also incorporates high-speed
transmission technologies that increases a system's capacity. High-speed
technologies such as Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, FDDI and ATM increase
transmission speeds from 10 Mbps to 100 Mbps and from 100 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps (1
Gbps). Higher transmission speeds have helped to increase the demand for LAN
switches in two important ways. First, LAN switches create uplinks between slow
desktop connections and high-speed fiber backbones, which are necessary if data
transfer is to occur between devices that operate at different speeds. Second,
as high-speed file servers or fiber backbones are upgraded, the system's
switches must be upgraded as well.
Two alternative high-speed networking technologies, FDDI and ATM, are
used in networking backbones, but because of their high cost for end-users they
are rarely used to connect desktop computers within a LAN. Both FDDI and ATM
transmit data in unique formats which also make them difficult to incorporate
into pre-existing Ethernet LANs.
Fast Ethernet has emerged as a cost-effective, interoperable technology
that enables the integration of ATM and FDDI backbones with Ethernet switches
and provides a non-disruptive, tenfold increase in speed from 10 Mbps to 100
Mbps. Furthermore, unlike FDDI and ATM, Fast Ethernet is based on fully defined
standards which use the same data format and core communication protocol as
Ethernet. This similarity permits easy integration with existing Ethernet
networks and allows
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organizations to retain the benefit of network administrators who have been
trained in the management of Ethernet networks. Thus, migration from Ethernet to
Fast Ethernet involves a simple change of adapter cards and an upgrade of hubs
and switches.
Similar benefits are being offered by the next generation of Ethernet
technology, Gigabit Ethernet, which provides raw data bandwidth of 1,000 Mbps
while maintaining full compatibility with the installed base of Ethernet nodes.
Management believes that demand for Gigabit Ethernet is likely to grow as more
LANs move to Fast Ethernet, generating substantial traffic loads on backbone
networks.
FIBER OPTIC ENVIRONMENT
Fiber optic cable can generally carry more information at less expense
and with greater signal quality than copper wire. The higher the speed of
transmission, the greater the capacity and the larger the span of the network,
the more essential is fiber optic transmission. Fiber has long replaced copper
as the preferred technology for long distance communications and major backbone
telephony and data transmissions. Due to its advantages, fiber optic technology
is also increasingly used to enhance performance and capacity within enterprise
networks and access networks. As a result, the market for fiber optic products
continues to grow both domestically and internationally.
Demand for fiber optic transmission components is driven by four
factors: (i) fiber applications have expanded beyond traditional telephony
applications and are being deployed in enterprise network backbones to support
high-speed data communications; (ii) within access networks, fiber is rapidly
expanding downstream toward end-users as access networks deploy
Fiber-in-the-Loop and FTTC architectures to support services such as fast
Internet access and interactive video; (iii) the growth of cellular
communications and PCS requires fiber to be deployed both within and between
cells; and (iv) the usage of fiber in short distances increases the demand for
components as more are used per mile of fiber. As the size, number and
complexity of these fiber networks increases, management expects that the demand
for fiber optic components will grow significantly.
Fiber Optic Transmission in Data Communications. As higher speed
connections are implemented in LAN/WAN systems, fiber optic transmission becomes
an essential element in computer networks. For transmission speeds of 100 Mbps
and higher, and transmission distances of 100 meters and longer, fiber optic
transmission must be deployed. Virtually all high-speed transmission standards,
such as FDDI, ATM, Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, specify fiber optic media
as the most practical technology for transmission. The steady rise in high-speed
connections and the growth in the span of networks, including the need to
connect remote workgroups, are driving the deployment of fiber optic cable
throughout enterprise networks.
Fiber Optic Transmission in Access Networks. To meet end users'
increased demand for content, software and services, network operators must
acquire additional bandwidth by either enhancing their existing networks or
constructing new ones. Cable TV operators are increasingly seeking to provide
general telecommunication services, high-speed Internet access and
video-on-demand. As a result, they are now faced with the need to transmit
"upstream," from customer premises to the cable TV operator and to send
different signals to individual end-users. Similarly, local exchange carriers
("LECs") are implementing new technological standards, such as Synchronous
Optical Network ("SONET") and fiber-intensive architectures such as FTTC to
enable high-speed Internet access and the delivery of cable TV and Internet
services to the home. Management believes that deployment of and upgrades to
these systems will increase the demand for the Company's fiber optic components
which typically are better able to endure environmental factors, such as rain,
snow, heat and wind, cost-effectively. In addition, cellular and PCS
communications represent a fast emerging market for fiber optic networks,
including their usage in the backbone and landline portion of wireless networks.
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PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGY
MRV offers advanced solutions for network connectivity requirements by
providing high speed LAN switching and fiber optic transmission products which
serve the computer networking and the broadband sections of the communications
industry. The Company designs and sells two groups of products: (i) high-speed
networking equipment, including LAN switches and WAN connectivity solutions, and
(ii) fiber optic transmission solutions for SONET, ATM, FDDI, Fast Ethernet,
cable TV and wireless infrastructure.
ENTERPRISE NETWORKING SOLUTIONS
The Company designs network switching systems that increase the
productivity and functionality of LANs. MRV offers its customers a family of
network, switching and related products that enhance LAN performance and
facilitate the migration to next generation technologies such as Fast Ethernet,
Gigabit Ethernet and ATM.
The GigaFrame Product Family. In 1997, the Company announced a GigaFrame
product strategy, the architecture for which consists of a Gigabit Ethernet
Switch, a GigaHub enterprise switch, MegaSwitch and two new low cost 10 Mbps to
100 Mbps stackable switches, all of which are now available. The Company shipped
its first GigaFrame switch, the 12 port GFS 3012, in the fourth quarter of 1997.
This switch, which also provides Gigabit Ethernet transmission over fiber optic
cable to a distance of 100 kilometers, won a best switching product award at
ComNet '98 and the Editor's choice award by Communications News magazine. In the
first quarter of 1999,the Company began shipping a new router switch in the
GigaFrame family of products, a Gigabit routing switch supporting IP routing,
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, and long distance fiber connections
for use in building metropolitan area networks ("MANs"), LANs and campus
networks. This router switch also includes several available modules, including
a wave division multiplexing ("WDM") module that combines four Gigabit Ethernet
data streams onto one fiber for transmission of data up to 50 kilometers.
The GigaFrame family of products is a group of routing switches
providing a wide range of choices that fit current enterprise networking
requirements. With layer 3 routing, long distance fiber optic connections,
differentiated quality and class of services and the ability to handle video and
voice traffic the GigaFrame line is well positioned for the convergence of
voice, video and data on today's networks. MRV's GigaFrame products are designed
for corporate, campus and metropolitan deployment.
The MegaSwitch Product Family. The Company's MegaSwitch products are a
family of Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet switches which are marketed under
MRV's NBase and Xyplex trade names. The MegaSwitch products range from complete
switching systems to stackable switches which upgrade performance of existing
LANs by relieving congestion of overloaded network segments, enable full duplex
and flow control and provide an easy, cost-effective migration to higher
transmission speeds without requiring replacement of existing infrastructure.
The Company's MegaSwitch products are a family of workgroup switches designed
for deployment as a cost-effective method of connecting existing networks with
higher-speed backbones and are based on Any Speed to Any Speed Ethernet
switching, including Gigabit Ethernet with access to ATM, FDDI and ISDN. Fast
Ethernet, Gigabit and ATM uplink modules incorporate InterSwitch VLAN
capabilities. InterSwitch VLANs enable the network administrator to define
separate VLANs spanning multiple switches in order to achieve optimal network
performance and serve multiple workgroups.
WAN Connectivity Solutions. The Company provides access solutions
between LANs and WANs and ISPs. Principal network access and Internetworking
products are summarized in the table below.
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRODUCT NAME APPLICATION AND FUNCTIONALITY
- ------------ -----------------------------
<S> <C>
EdgeBlaster EdgeBlaster is a multi-function WAN access router
that combines industry-standard routing protocols
with state-of-the-art access technologies to allow
branch and enterprise offices to connect users,
employees and remote offices using the latest digital
techniques. EdgeBlaster advances WAN access
convergence technology by integrating a full range of
WAN protocols for Internet and intranet, digital
modems, voice technologies and VPNs in a single unit,
replacing multi-device solutions such as routers and
Remote Access Services
Network 9000 This hub enables the integration of routing,
switching, access serving and media concentration
technologies. Primarily used at the central site of
corporate networks and at the edge of ISP networks,
the Network 9000 supports any combination of
Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI, ISDN, ATM, local and
remote bridge/router connectivity.
Network 3000 This family of branch office routers provides a
modular, scalable solution geared toward accessing
the corporate network and the Internet from remote
offices. Any combination of Ethernet, ISDN, Frame
Relay and asynchronous connections is available.
RouteRunner is a low-cost ISDN router designed to
meet the WAN needs of small offices, home offices and
branch offices such as doctors' offices or sales
offices.
MAXserver This family of low-cost, scalable remote access
server solutions enables terminals, PCs, modems,
printers and other asynchronous devices to connect to
the LAN and/or WAN. Ideal for supporting workgroups,
the stackable MAXserver offers 8-40 ports (and up to
280 ports in the modular Network 9000 solution) to
provide network access locally and remotely via
dial-up services. A variety of protocols are
supported including TCP/IP, IPX, and Appletalk.
Security capabilities such as Kerberos, RADIUS,
SecurID, password and dial-back are also offered.
</TABLE>
Hubs and Network Management. To implement network segments, the Company
offers GigaHub, a multi-platform switchable hub, and MegaStack, a stackable hub.
In addition, MRV has developed and offers MegaVision, which enables management
and control of its switching products and hub products.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRODUCT NAME APPLICATION AND FUNCTIONALITY
- ------------ -----------------------------
<S> <C>
GigaHub This enterprise network solution for medium to large
corporate networks requiring both shared and switched
connectivity in a mixed protocol environment,
provides a 12 Gbps modular enterprise switching
supporting Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet,
FDDI, ATM and Token Ring, and allowing integration of
LAN distribution and switching in a single hub.
MegaStack This high-speed auto-sensing stackable hub system
implements Ethernet/Fast Ethernet LAN segments,
provides performance for mission-critical and
bandwidth-intensive networks. It connects from 24
to 196 users, is stackable with fiber optic
connectivity to remote locations and offers
plug-and-play convenience and built-in
auto-partitioning for instant isolation of network
failures.
MegaVision This full-featured network management system provides
affordable and comprehensive management and control
of all MegaSwitch and MegaStack products and
automatically detects and monitors any SNMP compliant
devices. It operates on all major NMS including
Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT
Client, Novell NMS, HP/Open View for Windows or UNIX.
</TABLE>
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Related Networking Products. The Company also offers a number of other
products supporting network connectivity. Examples of such products are
summarized in the table below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRODUCT NAME APPLICATION AND FUNCTIONALITY
- ------------ -----------------------------
<S> <C>
Fiber Drivers This line of products consists of high density,
multi-media, multi-protocol, optical media converters
and switches. The Fiber Driver family provides the
interfaces between switches, hubs, routers and the
fiber or copper plan to allow existing fiber to be
used more efficiently, while providing network
management across the entire LAN, WAN or metropolitan
area network infrastructure. The Fiber Driver family
maximizes the use of existing fiber by combining
transmit and receive signals onto a single fiber
strand freeing up the second strand in a fiber paid
for additional data. Fiber Driver does this for all
speeds of Ethernet as well as ATM, SONET, SDH and
FDDI. In addition, the Fiber Driver family increases
efficiency through a WDM module.
Fiber Optic Transceivers These products consist of Ethernet and Fast Ethernet
and converters fiber optic transceivers that enable campus or
metropolitan deployment of Ethernet or Fast Ethernet
networks through fiber optic interconnection of LANs
to a distance of over 100 km, and multimode to single
mode fiber for FDDI, ATM and SONET that extend the
range of FDDI, ATM and SONET via fiber.
Token Ring These products consist of multimedia Token Ring hubs
with fiber, coax, UTP and STP connectivity which
extends the distance between segments of Token Ring
networks, and fiber optic transceivers with multimode
and single mode fiber, which allow flexible
implementation of IBM mid-range and mainframe
terminal connectivity.
Mid-range Connectivity These products consist of Twinax Star panels,
multiplexers and repeaters which allow flexible
implementation of IBM mid-range and mainframe
terminal connectivity.
</TABLE>
DirectIP Switching. The Company has developed, and recently introduced
as part of its MegaSwitch product line a series of DirectIP switching products
which provides the control and security of traditional routing with the
performance of switching. The Company has also incorporated its DirectIP
switching technology into its GigaFrame switch.
AccelerRouter. In the first quarter of 1999, the Company introduced
AccelerRouter, the first in a Open Switch Router family that the Company plans
to introduce. A router accelerator, AccelerRouter provides existing routers with
performance improvements of up to 100-fold without requiring any network
configuration changes. The AccelerRouter is protocol-independent, permitting it
to work with routers from any vendor, and automatically configures itself to
work with existing network architectures.
OPTICAL TRANSMISSION PRODUCTS
The Company offers a family of optical transmission components and
modules designed for transmission over fiber optic cable. These products address
transmission of voice, data and video across fiber and are also used in optical
fiber test equipment. The Company's products include discrete components, such
as laser diodes and LEDs and integrated components such as transmitters,
receivers and transceivers. The Company's components are used in data networks,
telecommunication transmission and access networks. Management believes that the
Company is benefitting from three major demand trends in this area: first, the
growth of the market, especially computer networking and the access networks, by
both LECs and cable
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<PAGE> 17
TV providers; second, the convergence of datacom and telecom; and third, as
transmission speed and capacity grow, a larger portion of all network traffic is
transmitted via fiber optic versus copper wires.
Discrete Components. Discrete components include laser diodes and LEDs.
Every fiber optic communication system utilizes semiconductor laser diodes or
LEDs as its source of optical power. Laser diodes and LEDs are solid state
semiconductor devices that efficiently convert electronic signals into pulses of
light of high purity and brightness. The Company believes that its lasers and
LEDs, which can carry data over distances in excess of 20 kilometers are among
the most powerful in their wavelength range in terms of optical power coupled
into single mode fiber.
Integrated Components. The Company's integrated components include an
LED and laser based transmitter/receiver product line, designed for computer
networking applications and data link products designed for SONET and ATM
transmission standards. This product line consists of products compatible with
single mode fiber optic cable, which is more suitable for long distance and
high-speed transmission than multimode fiber optic cable. As most currently
available data link modules are designed for multimode fiber optic cable, the
Company has designed its products to be adaptable, providing for easy conversion
from a multimode type data link to a single mode optical fiber.
The Company recently began shipping a transmitter/receiver product
incorporating WDM and two-way transmission over single fiber, thus increasing
bandwidth and facilitating the deployment of FTTC in residential networks.
Products for the Access Network. The Company offers a line of products
that addresses the rapidly growing deployment of the access network. These
products include fiber optic transmission by both LECs and cable TV providers to
address the increasing demand for telephony, Internet access and interactive
cable TV services. The following is a brief description of these products.
FTTC: Telephone and High-speed Internet Access and Cable TV. The Company
offers a bidirectional optical transmission and reception module for two-way
simultaneous transmission of telephony and data over one fiber instead of the
two fibers normally used to transmit and receive information. This product is
integrated into a system currently deployed by Bell South and other LECs.
The Company believes it is one of the few companies that offers
subsystems for an FTTC solution that can be deployed economically within 500
feet of the subscriber. Because the final drop is within 500 feet of the
subscriber, the physical characteristics of the drop cable (the "baseband"
characteristics) permit signal transmission at rates up to 155 Mbps without
requiring the addition of passband modulation electronics such as ISDN or xDSL.
In addition, the Company's fiber solution requires only a single fiber (as
opposed to separate upstream and downstream fibers). As a result, the Company
believes that its fiber solution, in certain new network buildouts, such as in
apartment complexes, can be currently deployed at a cost comparable to the cost
of deploying a copper-based system. In addition, the Company believes that the
lifetime cost of its fiber solution system will be significantly lower than
copper-based systems due to the inherently lower maintenance requirements of
fiber-based systems.
The Company has developed WDM technology for its fiber solution that
allows users to deliver simultaneous high-speed Internet access, analog and
digital broadcast and interactive video services. This technology allows the
delivery of high-speed Internet access using an Ethernet connection. Individual
users connect to the Internet using broadly available traditional LAN connection
devices such as an Ethernet network interface card. Access via the Company's
fiber solution provides a reliable "always on" connection to the Internet with
lower power requirements than other FTTC alternatives.
Downstream Cable TV. The Company has recently engaged in new business
opportunities for linear lasers and receivers for cable TV and believes its
products are well positioned to serve this market. The Company further believes
that the upgrade of existing cable networks and the deployment of fiber by the
telephone companies to provide cable TV delivery services is expected to
increase the demand for the Company's products.
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<PAGE> 18
Return Path Laser Transmitters. The Company's return path laser
transmitters send video, voice and data signals from the end user to the cable
TV operator. For interactive applications such as cable modems and Fast Internet
access, a cable network must have two-way optical transmitters and receivers in
place before those services can be offered. Most of today's cable networks still
have just a one-way downstream path.
DFB Laser Module for Cable TV (Narrowcasting). The Company offers DFB
laser modules with high power and stable analog transmission which enable cable
TV operators to send different signals to individual end users, a capability
known as narrowcasting.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
All of the Company's research and development projects are geared toward
technological advances with the goal of enabling the Company to introduce
innovative products early to market. New networking and fiber optic components
are constantly introduced to the market. This product introduction is driven by
a combination of rapidly evolving technology and standards, as well as changing
customer needs. MRV's research and product development strategy emphasizes
continuing evaluation of emerging trends and technical challenges in order to
identify new markets and product opportunities. The Company believes that its
success is due in part to its ability to maintain sophisticated technology
research programs while simultaneously focusing on practical applications to its
customers' strategic needs.
In order to meet its customers' price and performance demands, MRV has
focused on developing custom ASICs to implement its core switching technologies.
The Company spends significant resources to maintain and extend its
comprehensive ASIC design and test expertise. All custom ASICs are developed
internally using third party state of the art design tools and the Company's
proprietary methodologies. The Company's ASIC expertise in conjunction with its
innovative product architectures and firmware enable the Company to develop
products characterized by high performance, reliability and low cost.
The Company has successfully integrated Fibronics' research and
development projects with its own programs and has integrated its MegaSwitch
technology, including Gigabit Ethernet, with Fibronics' GigaHub architecture.
The Company has completed the consolidation of Xyplex' research and development
projects with its own and to date has integrated certain aspects of MegaSwitch
with Xyplex' networking products, including its Network 9000 and has also
introduced EdgeBlaster.
The Company has a number of new networking product development programs
underway, including new multi-Gigabit Ethernet switching, ATM and FDDI uplink
modules. These products are being developed in response to current technological
trends and end user demands for greater bandwidth and product flexibility. In
addition, the Company is developing new networking products, which incorporate
new operating systems and additional protocols. These product development
efforts target enterprise customers as well as LECs and competitive local
exchange carriers and aim at providing backbone connectivity for IP networks.
New products under development in the area of fiber optics include
transmission products for cellular and personal communication systems which
allow transmission over fiber optic cable between sites and also fiber optic
components that will improve cable TV transmission and technologies that add
intelligence and manageability to optical layers.
There can be no assurance that the technologies and applications under
development by the Company will be successfully developed, or, if they are
successfully developed, that they will be successfully marketed and sold to the
Company's existing and potential customers.
At December 31, 1998, the Company had 190 employees dedicated to
research and product development. Research and development expenditures totaled
approximately $8,201,000, $13,093,000 and $25,817,000 for years ended December
31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.
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<PAGE> 19
CUSTOMERS
The Company has sold its products worldwide to over 500 diverse
customers in a wide range of industries, primarily; data communications,
telecommunications and cable TV. The Company anticipates that these customers
will continue to purchase its products in the foreseeable future. No customer
accounted for more than 10% of the Company's revenues in 1996, 1997 or 1998.
Current customers include:
NETWORK SWITCHING
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
COMPUTERS AND ELECTRONICS GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
- AMP Incorporated - General Services Administration
- Black Box Corporation - Ministry of Agriculture, Germany
- Engel GmbH & Co. - Ministry of Justice, Netherlands
- Fujitsu Ltd. (Japan) - Ministry of Social Security (Belgium)
- Intel Corporation - MITI (Japan)
- International Business Machines Corp. - South African Police
- Newbridge Networks - US Coast Guard
BANKING, FINANCE AND INSURANCE DIVERSIFIED AND OTHER
- Bankgarot Sweden - ADP
- Chase Manhattan Bank - Bayer AG
- GE Capital - Eastman Kodak
- HBOC - Tele-Communications, Inc.
- Nationsbank - The Walt Disney Co.
FIBER OPTIC COMPONENTS
DATA COMMUNICATIONS TELECOMMUNICATIONS
- Cabletron - Broadband Network Inc.
- Cisco Systems, Inc. - Ciena
- Packet Engines - Reltec
- Nortel Networks - Tellabs
- Xylan - Transcom
VIDEO AND VOICE COMMUNICATIONS INSTRUMENTATION
- Augat Communication Products Inc. - EXFO
- C-COR - GN Nettest
- General Instrument - Noyes Fiber Systems
- Kathrein Werke - 3M
- Texscan - Wandel & Goltermann
</TABLE>
MARKETING
The Company markets and sells its products under the NBase
Communications, MRV Communications, West Hills LAN Systems, Xyplex and Xyplex
Networks brand names. Each product line has a dedicated sales and marketing
organization. At December 31, 1998, the Company had 325 employees engaged in
marketing and sales. The Company employs various methods, such as public
relations, advertising, and trade shows to build awareness of its products.
Public relations activities are conducted both internally and through
relationships with outside agencies. Major public relation activities are
focused around new product introductions, corporate partnerships and other
events of interest to the market. The Company supplements its public relations
through media advertising programs and attendance at various trade shows
throughout the year, both in the United States and internationally.
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<PAGE> 20
The Company also establishes working relationships with trade analysts,
testing facilities and high visibility corporate and government accounts. Since
the results obtained by these organizations can often influence customers'
purchase decisions, a positive response from these organizations regarding the
Company's technology is important to product acceptance and purchase. Other
activities include attendance at technology seminars, preparation of competitive
analyses, sales training, publication of technical and educational articles,
maintenance of a Web site and direct mailing of Company literature. The Company
also believes that its participation in high-profile interactive projects such
as Bell South's FTTC project significantly enhances its reputation and name
recognition among existing and potential customers.
SALES, SUPPORT AND DISTRIBUTION
The Company continually seeks to augment and increase its distribution
channels and sales force to accelerate its growth. Products are sold through the
Company's direct sales force, VARs, systems integrators, distributors,
manufacturer's representatives and OEM customers. The Company's sales and
distribution divisions are organized along five primary lines: direct sales,
OEM, domestic and international distributors, VARs and systems integrators and
manufacturer's representatives; and domestic and international distributors.
Direct Sales. The Company employs a worldwide direct sales force
primarily to sell its products to large OEM accounts and to a lesser extent to
end users of the Fibronics product line. MRV believes that a direct sales force
can best serve large customers by allowing salespeople to develop strong,
lasting relationships which can effectively meet the customers' needs. The
direct sales staff is located across the United States, Europe and Israel. The
acquisition of the Fibronics Business more than doubled the Company's sales
force from the period immediately preceding the acquisition and the Xyplex
Acquisition increased the total sales force again by over 70% from the period
immediately preceding the acquisition. The largest portion of the increase from
the Xyplex Acquisition was to the Company's domestic sales force which increased
over 175% from the level existing immediately preceding the acquisition.
OEM. Each of the Company's OEM partners resells the products under its
own name. The Company believes that the OEM partnerships enhance its ability to
sell its products in significant quantities to large organizations. Since these
OEM partners provide their own technical and sales support to their customers,
the Company is able to focus on other sales channels. The Company customarily
enters into contracts with OEM customers to establish the terms and conditions
of sales made pursuant to orders from OEMs. These OEMs incorporate the Company's
product into systems or subsystems, which are then sold to end users via various
distribution channels. The Company has established OEM relationships in
connection with its switching equipment with leading communications and
networking companies including Newbridge Networks, Fujitsu and Intel. The
Company's fiber optic components are sold only to OEMs.
Domestic and International Distributors. The Company works with both
domestic and international distributors. Geographic exclusivity is normally not
awarded unless the distributor has exceptional performance. Distributors must
successfully complete the Company's training programs and provide system
installation, technical support, sales support and follow-on service to local
customers. Generally, distributors have agreements with a one year term subject
to automatic renewal unless otherwise canceled by either party. In certain cases
with major distributors, the agreements are terminable on 30 days' notice. The
Company uses stocking distributors, which purchase the Company's product and
stock it in their warehouse for immediate delivery, and non-stocking
distributors, which purchase the Company's product after the receipt of an
order. Internationally, the Company sells through approximately 80 distributors
in Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, Canada and Latin America.
Value-Added Resellers and Systems Integrators. MRV uses a select group
of VARs and system integrators in the U.S. which are generally selected for
their ability to offer the Company's products in combination with related
products and services, such as system design, integration and support. Such
specialization allows the Company to penetrate targeted vertical markets such as
telecommunications and cable TV. Generally, the Company uses a two-tier
distribution system to
20
<PAGE> 21
reach a broader range of customers, however VARs may purchase the product
directly from the Company if the volume warrants a direct relationship.
Through the Xyplex Acquisition, the Company has added a network of over
300 VARs to its distribution channel. The Company seeks to build dedication and
loyalty from its resellers by offering special programs, the most recent
providing its reseller base of companies dedicated marketing resources and an
exclusive training and support program to help them grow their business.
Manufacturers' Representatives. To supplement the Company's direct sales
efforts, manufacturer's representatives are assigned by territory in the United
States and work exclusively on commission.
Customer Support and Service. The Company is committed to providing
strong technical support to its customers. MRV operates a customer service
group, and provides support through its engineering group, sales staff,
distributors, OEMs and VARs. Customer support personnel are currently located at
the Company's offices in California, Massachusetts, Maryland, Germany, England,
Italy and Israel.
International Sales. International sales accounted for approximately
53%, 60% and 59% of the Company's net revenues in 1996, 1997 and 1998,
respectively.
MANUFACTURING
The Company has developed proprietary ASICs to implement high level
component integration in its networking product development and manufacturing
processes. To develop ASICs successfully, the Company must transfer a code of
instructions to a single mask from which low cost duplicates can be made. Each
iteration of a mask involves a substantial up-front cost which can adversely
affect the Company's result of operations and financial condition if errors or
"bugs" occur following multiple duplication of the masks. While the Company has
not experienced material expenses to date as a result of errors discovered in
ASIC masks, because of the complexity of the duplication process and the
difficulty in detecting errors, the Company could suffer a material adverse
effect to its operating results and financial condition if errors in developing
ASICs were to occur in the future. The Company does not have a long-term supply
contract with any ASIC vendor or any other of its limited source vendors,
purchasing all of such components on a purchase order basis under standard terms
of sale. While the Company believes it would be able to obtain alternative
sources of supply for the ASICs or other key components, a change in ASIC or
other key suppliers of key components could require a significant lead time and,
therefore, could result in a delay in product shipments. While the Company has
not experienced delays in the receipt of ASICs or other key components, any
future difficulty in obtaining any of these key components could result in
delays or reductions in product shipments which, in turn, could have material
adverse effect on the Company's business, operating results and financial
condition.
The Company outsources the board-level assembly, test and quality
control of its computer networking products to third party contract
manufacturers, thereby allowing it to react quickly to market demand, to avoid
the significant capital investment required to establish and maintain
manufacturing and assembly facilities and to concentrate its resources on
product design and development. Final assembly, burn-in, final testing and
pack-out are performed by the Company and selected third-party contract
manufacturers to maintain quality control. The Company's manufacturing team is
experienced in advanced manufacturing and testing, in engineering, in ongoing
reliability/quality assurance and in managing third party contract
manufacturer's capacity, quality standards and manufacturing process. Risks
associated with the use of independent manufacturers include unavailability of
or delays in obtaining adequate supplies of products and reduced control of
manufacturing quality and production costs. If the Company's contract
manufacturers fail to deliver products in the future on a timely basis, or at
all, it would be extremely difficult for the Company to obtain adequate supplies
of products from other sources on short notice. There can be no assurance that
the Company's third party manufacturers will provide adequate supplies of
quality products on a timely basis, or at all. The Company could outsource with
other vendors; however, such a
21
<PAGE> 22
change in vendors may require significant time and result in shipment delays and
expenses. The inability to obtain such products on a timely basis, the loss of a
particular vendor or a change in the terms and conditions of the outsourcing
would have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, operating
results and financial condition.
The Company relies almost exclusively on its own production capability
for critical semiconductor lasers and LEDs used in its products. The Company's
optical transmission production process involves (i) a wafer processing facility
for semiconductor laser diode and LED chip manufacturing under stringent and
accurate procedures using state-of-the-art wafer fabrication technology, (ii)
high precision electronic and mechanical assembly, and (iii) final assembly and
testing. Relevant assembly processes include die attach, wirebond, substrate
attachment and fiber coupling. The Company also conducts tests throughout its
manufacturing process using commercially available and in-house built testing
systems that incorporate proprietary procedures. The Company performs final
product tests on all of its products prior to shipment to customers. Many of the
key processes used in the Company's products are proprietary; and, therefore,
many of the key components of the Company's products are designed and produced
internally. Because the Company manufactures these and other key components of
its products at its own facility and such components are not readily available
from other sources, any interruption of the Company's manufacturing process
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations. Furthermore,
the Company has a limited number of employees dedicated to the operation and
maintenance of its wafer fabrication equipment, the loss of any of whom could
result in the Company's inability to effectively operate and service such
equipment. Wafer fabrication is sensitive to a wide variety of factors,
including variations and impurities in the raw materials, difficulties in the
fabrication process and performance of the manufacturing equipment. There can be
no assurance that the Company will be able to maintain acceptable production
yields and avoid product shipment delays. In the event adequate production
yields are not achieved resulting in product shipment delays, the Company's
business, operating results and financial condition could be materially
adversely affected. The Company believes that it has sufficient manufacturing
capacity for growth in the coming years. In addition, at various times there
have been shortages of parts in the electronics industry, and certain critical
components have been subject to limited allocations. Although shortages of parts
and allocations have not had a material adverse effect on the Company's results
of operations, there can be no assurance that any future shortages or
allocations would not have such an effect.
The Company is subject to a variety of federal, state, and local
governmental laws and regulations related to the storage, use, emission,
discharge, and disposal of toxic, volatile or otherwise hazardous chemicals used
in the manufacturing process. There can be no assurance that environmental laws
and regulations will not result in the need for additional capital equipment or
other requirements. Further, such laws and regulations could restrict the
Company's ability to expand its operations. Any failure by the Company to obtain
required permits for, control of use of, or adequately restrict the discharge,
emission or release of, hazardous substances under present or future laws and
regulations could subject the Company to substantial liability or could cause
its manufacturing operations to be suspended. Such liability or suspension of
manufacturing operations could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
operating results. To date, such laws and regulations have not had a material
adverse effect on the Company's operating results.
COMPETITION
The communications equipment and component industry is intensely
competitive. The Company competes directly with a number of established and
emerging computer, communications and networking device companies. Direct
competitors in network switching include Cabletron Systems, Inc., Cisco Systems
Inc., FORE Systems, Inc., Lucent Technologies, Nortel Networks, 3Com Corporation
and Xylan. Direct competitors in the network access market include Ascend, Cisco
Systems, Inc., Lucent Technologies, Nortel Networks, Shiva and 3Com. Direct
competitors in fiber optic transmission products include AMP Incorporated,
Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard Company, Lucent Technologies Inc., Mitsubishi, NEC
Electronics Inc., Ortel Corporation and Siemens Components, Inc. Many of the
Company's competitors have significantly greater financial, technical,
marketing, distribution and other resources and larger installed customer bases
than MRV. Several of these competitors have recently introduced or announced
their intentions to introduce new competitive products. Many of the larger
companies with which the Company competes offer customers a broader product line
which provides a more comprehensive
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<PAGE> 23
networking solution than the Company's products. The ability to act as a single
source vendor and provide a customer with an enterprise-wide networking solution
has increasingly become an important competitive factor. In addition, there are
a number of early stage companies which are developing Fast Ethernet, Gigabit
Ethernet switching and alternative solutions. If developed successfully, these
solutions could be higher in performance or more cost-effective than the
Company's products.
Moreover, there are also several alternative network technologies. For
example, in the local access market, the Company's products compete with
telephone network technology known as "ADSL." In this technology, digital
signals are transmitted through existing telephone lines from the central office
to the home. The Company also expects that competitive pricing pressures could
result in price declines for the Company's and its competitors' products. Such
increased competition, if not accompanied by decreasing costs, could result in
reduced margins and loss of market share which would materially and adversely
affect the Company's business, operating results and financial condition.
The networking industry has become increasingly concentrated in recent
years as a result of consolidation. This consolidation is likely to permit the
Company's competitors to devote significantly greater resources to the
development and marketing of new competitive products and the marketing of
existing competitive products to their larger installed bases. The Company
expects that competition will increase substantially as a result of these and
other industry consolidations and alliances, as well as the emergence of new
competitors.
PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
To date, the Company has relied principally upon copyrights and trade
secrets to protect its proprietary technology. The Company generally enters into
confidentiality agreements with its employees and key suppliers and otherwise
seeks to limit access to and distribution of the source code to its software and
other proprietary information. There can be no assurance that such steps will be
adequate to prevent misappropriation of the Company's technology or that a third
party will not independently develop technology similar or superior to the
Company's technology. The Company has recently filed two patent applications and
a provisional patent application in the United States. With the Xyplex
Acquisition, MRV acquired five additional provisional patent applications filed
by Xyplex on certain aspects of its technology. There can be no assurance that
patents will be issued with respect to the pending applications or that, if
issued, such patents will be upheld as valid or will prevent the development of
competitive products. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries may not
permit the protection of the Company's proprietary rights to the same extent as
do the laws of the United States.
There has been substantial industry litigation regarding intellectual
property rights involving technology companies. By letter to the Company dated
March 19, 1997, a party has made a claim against the Company alleging that the
Company's DirectIP switching products make use of unspecified information and
know-how covered by a pending patent application of such party. This allegation
is under review by the Company and the Company believes that the allegation is
without merit. However, a complete assessment cannot be made with respect to the
merits of the allegation until further details of the information and know-how
are provided by such third party. Currently, sales of DirectIP products are not
material to the Company, however, if the DirectIP switching products comprise a
material part of the Company's revenues in the future and a conclusion in
respect of the claim unfavorable to the Company is reached, the claim, if
pursued by such party, could materially and adversely affect the business,
operating results and financial condition of the Company. In addition, on
December 27, 1996 Datapoint Corporation ("Datapoint") brought an action against
NBase Communications, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company ("NBase"), and others
alleging infringement of two of Datapoint's patents. The other defendants
include Dayna Communications, Inc., Sun Microsystems, Inc., Adaptec, Inc.,
International Business Machines Corporation, Lantronix and SVEC America Computer
Corporation. Intel and Cisco Systems, Inc. have also had actions brought against
them by Datapoint with respect to the same two patents. The Company is
cooperating with several of these companies in pursuit of common defenses and
believes it has meritorious defenses to this action. If a conclusion unfavorable
to the Company is reached, however, Datapoint's claim could materially and
adversely affect the business, operating results and financial condition of the
Company. For further information concerning this litigation, see Item 3. Legal
Proceedings.
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<PAGE> 24
In the future, additional litigation may be necessary to protect trade
secrets and other intellectual property rights owned by the Company, to enforce
any patents issued to the Company, to defend the Company against claimed
infringement of the rights of others and to determine the scope and validity of
the proprietary rights of others. Any such litigation could be costly and a
diversion of management's attention, which could have a material adverse effect
on the Company's business, operating results and financial condition. An adverse
determination in such litigation could further result in the loss of the
Company's proprietary rights, subject the Company to significant liabilities,
require the Company to seek licenses from third parties or prevent the Company
from manufacturing or selling its products, any of which could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's business, operating results and financial
condition. The Company typically has agreed to indemnify its customers and key
suppliers for liability incurred in connection with the infringement of a third
party's intellectual property rights.
EMPLOYEES
As of December 31, 1998, the Company had 824 full-time employees,
including six executive officers, 227 in production, 325 in marketing and sales,
190 in research and development and 76 in general administration. None of the
Company's employees are represented by a union or governed by a collective
bargaining agreement, and the Company believes its relationship with its
employees is good.
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<PAGE> 25
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's principal administrative, sales and marketing, research
and development and manufacturing facility is located in Chatsworth, California.
The facility covers approximately 17,700 square feet and is leased from an
unaffiliated third party at an annual base rent of approximately $122,260
through March 31, 1999 and approximately $150,000 through the end of the lease
term in February 2004. In addition, the Company leases space in buildings near
its primary facility in Chatsworth. One of these facilities, consisting of
approximately 20,950 square feet, is leased from an unaffiliated third party at
an annual base rental of approximately $131,000 with a term expiring in January
2003. Another facility covers approximately 12,800 square feet and is leased fom
an unaffiliated party at an annual base rent of approximately $98,000 through
March 1999. The Company is in the process of negotiating an extension to this
lease.
Xyplex occupies a facility in Littleton, Massachusetts, consisting of
approximately 101,000 square feet under a lease that expires in September 2003.
Annual base rent under this lease is approximately $1,061,00 through September
2001 and $1,086,000 thereafter through expiration of the lease. Most of the
square footage is used for manufacturing, engineering, and product development,
while the remainder is used for sales, marketing, and other general and
administrative support.
The Company's administrative, sales and marketing, research and
development and manufacturing operations in Israel are located in Yokneam,
Israel in facilities that cover approximately 23,400 square feet, are leased for
a total annual base rent of approximately $206,000 for a lease term expiring in
January 2002.
The Company leases approximately 1,600 square feet of space from an
unaffiliated third party in Frankfurt, Germany, which it uses for sales,
marketing and warehousing. The premises are leased for total annual base rents
of approximately $221,000 for a lease term expiring in August 1999.
The Company also occupies space under a capital lease with an
unaffiliated third party in Milan, Italy which it uses for sales offices and
warehousing. Annual payments under the lease are approximately $220,000 and the
lease expires in March 2004.
The Company believes that its present facilities are sufficient to meet
its current needs and that adequate additional space will be available for lease
when required.
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On December 27, 1996, Datapoint brought an action against NBase and
several other defendants in the United States District Court for the Eastern
District of New York alleging infringement of two of Datapoint's patents related
to LANs. More particularly Datapoint claims relate to allegedly improved LANs
which interoperatively combine additional enhanced capability and/or which
provide multiple different operational capabilities. In the same lawsuit,
Datapoint alleges that other defendants including Dayna Communications, Inc.,
Sun Microsystems, Inc., Adaptec, Inc., International Business Machines
Corporation, Lantronix and SVEC America Computer Corporation have infringed the
same two patents. The Company has been advised that several other companies,
including Intel Corporation and Cisco Systems, Inc. have also had actions
brought against them by Datapoint with respect to the same two patents. The
action against NBase and its codefendants seeks, among other things, an
injunction against the manufacture or sale of products which embody the
inventions set forth in the two patents and single and treble damages for the
alleged infringement. Datapoint's complaint also seeks to have the court
determine that the named defendants shall serve as representatives of a
defendant class of manufacturers, vendors and users of products allegedly
infringing on Datapoint's claimed patents from which defendant class Datapoint
seeks the same relief as from the individual defendants. In February 1999, the
court entered judgment in favor of the defendants and plaintiff filed a notice
of appeal. The Company is cooperating with several of the defendants in pursuit
of common defenses and believes it has meritorious defenses to this action. If a
conclusion unfavorable to the Company is reached, however, Datapoint's claim
could materially affect the business, operating results and financial condition
of the Company.
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ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
On October 30, 1998, the Company held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders
(the "Annual Meeting") at which, among other things, the Company's entire board
of directors was elected. The name of each director elected at the Annual
Meeting, and the number of votes cast for and against (or withheld) were as
follows:
Number of Votes
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name For Against or Withheld
---- --- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan 24,596,324 354,796
Shlomo Margalit 24,596,774 354,346
Zeev Rav-Noy 24,596,774 354,346
Igal Shidlovsky 24,596,774 354,346
Guenter Jaensch 24,596,774 354,346
</TABLE>
The other matters voted upon at the meeting and the number of votes cast
for, against or withheld, including abstentions and broker non-votes, as to each
matter were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROPOSAL FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
-------- --- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
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 40,000,000 to 80,000,000 shares. 23,805,393 1,073,563 72,164
To approve amendments to the Company's 1997
Incentive and Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan to
increase by 500,000 shares the number of shares
of Common Stock that can be optioned and sold under
such Stock Option Plan. 23,812,024 1,016,011 123,085
To ratify the selection of Arthur
Andersen LLP as independent auditors for
the Company for the fiscal year ending
December 31, 1998. 24,688,763 192,734 69,623
To consider and act upon any matters
incidental to the foregoing and any
other matters which may properly come
before the meeting or any adjournment or
adjournments thereof. 23,131,572 1,478,081 341,467
</TABLE>
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Company's Common Stock is traded in the over-the-counter market and
has been included in the Nasdaq National Market since February 28, 1994 under
the symbol "MRVC." The following table sets forth the high and low closing sale
prices of the Common Stock for the periods indicated as reported by The Nasdaq
National Market.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HIGH LOW
------ ------
<S> <C> <C>
1997:
First Quarter............................................. $ 29.88 $ 18.25
Second Quarter............................................ 30.75 18.25
Third Quarter............................................. 38.75 25.75
Fourth Quarter............................................ 37.75 21.13
1998:
First Quarter............................................. $ 29.00 $ 21.13
Second Quarter............................................ 28.38 19.38
Third Quarter............................................. 24.00 5.06
Fourth Quarter............................................ 9.06 5.13
</TABLE>
At March 19, 1999, the Company had 290 stockholders of record, as
indicated on the records of the Company's transfer agent, who held, management
believes, for approximately 19,523 beneficial holders.
The Company has never declared or paid cash dividends on the Common
Stock since its inception. The Company currently intends to retain all of its
earnings, if any, for use in the operation and expansion of its business and
does not intend to pay any cash dividends to its stockholders in the foreseeable
future.
28
<PAGE> 29
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected statement of operations data for the three years
in the period ended December 31, 1998 and the balance sheet data as of December
31, 1997 and 1998 are derived from the financial statements and notes thereto
included elsewhere herein audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public
accountants, as set forth in their report included elsewhere herein. The
selected statement of operations data for the two years in the period ended
December 31, 1995 and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 1994, 1995 and
1996 were derived from audited financial statements of the Company not included
herein. The following data should be read in conjunction with "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and
the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company, including the notes
thereto, included elsewhere in this Report.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Year ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues, net ........................................... $ 17,526 $ 39,202 $ 88,815 $ 165,471 $ 264,075
Cost of goods sold ...................................... 10,328 22,608 51,478 94,709 162,284
Write-down of discontinued products ..................... -- -- -- -- 3,101
Research and development expenses ....................... 2,144 4,044 8,201 13,093 25,817
Selling, general and administrative expenses ............ 2,615 6,799 14,025 27,365 56,753
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income before purchased technology in progress
and restructuring costs.................................. 2,439 5,751 15,111 30,304 16,120
Purchased technology in progress(1) ..................... -- 6,211 17,795 -- 20,633
Restructuring costs(1) .................................. -- 1,465 6,974 -- 15,671
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income (loss) ................................. 2,439 (1,925) (9,658) 30,304 (20,184)
Other income (expense), net ............................. 162 654 153 2,744 6,819
Interest expense related to convertible
debentures/notes(2)...................................... -- -- (4,357) (843) (2,480)
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes, minority
interests and extraordinary item......................... 2,601 (1,271) (13,862) 32,205 (15,845)
Provision (credit) for income taxes ..................... 983 2 (4,404) 9,474 5,707
Minority interests ...................................... -- -- 196 146 1,345
Gain on repurchase of convertible notes, net of tax ..... -- -- -- -- 2,791
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss)(1) .................................... $ 1,618 $ (1,273) $ (9,654) $ 22,585 $ (20,106)
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net income (loss) per share - Basic(1) ................. $ 0.13 $ (0.07) $ (0.49) $ 0.95 $ (0.76)
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Net income (loss) per share - Diluted(1) ............... $ 0.13 $ (0.07) $ (0.49) $ 0.88 $ (0.76)
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Shares used in per share calculation - Basic ............ 12,335 18,377 19,739 23,670 26,532
Shares used in per share calculation - Diluted .......... 12,560 18,377 19,739 25,734 26,532
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA:
At December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
(In thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Working capital ......................................... $ 11,303 $ 22,019 $ 56,973 $ 111,559 $ 115,318
Total assets ............................................ 16,667 33,307 96,943 236,236 320,192
Long-term debt, net of current portion ................. -- 271 18,892 2,853 94,317
Stockholders' equity .................................... 12,906 25,258 41,771 189,969 174,429
</TABLE>
- -----------------
(1) Purchased technology in progress and restructuring charges were incurred
as a result of acquisitions. Purchased technology in progress for the year
ended December 31, 1995 was for research and development ("R&D") projects in
progress at the time of acquisition of assets from Ace and Galcom.
Restructuring costs during the year ended December 31, 1995 were associated
with a plan adopted by the Company in 1995 calling for the merger of the
newly acquired subsidiaries and the Company's LAN product division. The plan
also called for the closure of some facilities, termination of redundant
employees and cancellation of representation agreements. Purchased
technology in progress for the year ended December
29
<PAGE> 30
31, 1996 was in conjunction with the Fibronics Acquisition. Restructuring
costs during the year ended December 31, 1996 were associated with a plan
adopted by the Company on September 30, 1996 calling for the reduction of
workforce, closing of certain facilities, retraining of certain employees
and elimination of particular product lines due to this acquisition.
Purchased technology in progress for the year ended December 31, 1998 was in
conjunction with the Xyplex Acquisition. Restructuring costs during the year
ended December 31, 1998 were associated with a plan adopted by the Company
in March 1998 calling for the reduction of workforce, closing of certain
facilities, elimination of particular product lines, settlement of
distribution agreements and other costs.
(2) Interest expenses for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 were
in connection with the private placement of $30 million principal amount of
Debentures, the proceeds from which the Company used to finance the cash
portion of the Fibronics Acquisition. Interest expenses for the year ended
December 31, 1998 were connected with the private placement of $100 million
principal amount of 5% Convertible Subordinated Notes.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and
uncertainties. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those
anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors,
including those set forth in the following and elsewhere in this Report. The
following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated
Financial Statements and Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Report.
GENERAL
Since its inception in 1988, the Company has manufactured and marketed
semiconductor optical transmission products for the fiber optics communications
industry. In 1993, the Company expanded its product line to include products
incorporating Ethernet switching technology that improved network throughput and
enhanced efficiency of LANs and introduced its first switch marketed under the
NBase trademark in the fourth quarter of 1993. During 1994, the Company expanded
commercial shipments of its LAN switching products. In 1995, the Company
augmented its networking products with the acquisitions of certain assets of
Galcom and Ace, which resulted in charges of $6,211,000 and $1,465,000 for
purchased technology in progress and restructuring, respectively. Net revenues
from sales of networking products and semiconductor optical transmission
products were approximately 69.4% and 30.6%, respectively, during the year ended
December 31, 1996, approximately 76.1% and 23.9%, respectively, during the year
ended December 31, 1997 and approximately 81.5% and 18.5%, respectively, during
the year ended December 31, 1998.
In September 1996, the Company completed the Fibronics Acquisition,
acquiring assets related to Fibronics' computer networking and
telecommunications businesses in Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom,
the Netherlands and Israel. The assets acquired include Fibronics' technology in
progress and existing technology, its marketing channels, its GigaHub family of
computer networking products and other rights. This acquisition also resulted in
charges in the amount $17,795,000 and $6,974,000 for purchased technology in
progress and restructuring, respectively. Through the restructuring of September
30, 1996, the Company expected to improve Fibronics' operations in, among
others, the following key areas: (i) the elimination of unprofitable products
and operations that appeared detrimental to overall profit margins; (ii) the
reduction of payroll by eliminating redundant staff; (iii) the merger and
relocation of research and development resources to place qualified individuals
on the most appropriate projects; (iv) and the reduction of overhead costs by
the closure of redundant facilities. The costs incurred to complete the research
and development in process at the time of the Fibronics Acquisition have not had
a material effect on MRV's research and development expenses as a percentage of
net sales. These projects were completed as of 1997.
In September 1996, the Company completed a private placement of an
aggregate of $30,000,000 principal amount of 5% convertible subordinated
debentures due August 6, 1999 (the "Debentures"). Proceeds from this private
placement were used to purchase the Fibronics Business. The Debentures were
convertible into Common Stock of the Company at any time at the option of the
holders at a discount from the market price of the Common Stock at the time of
conversion that decreased over the life of the Debentures until it reached a
floor. At a meeting of the Emerging Issues Task Force held on March 13,
30
<PAGE> 31
1997, the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") announced its
position on the accounting treatment for the issuance of convertible preferred
stock and debt securities with a beneficial conversion feature such as that
contained in the Debentures. As announced, the SEC requires that a beneficial
conversion feature attached to instruments such as the Debentures that are
convertible into equity be recognized and measured by allocating a portion of
the proceeds equal to the intrinsic value of that feature to additional paid-in
capital and charging it to interest expense. As a result of the SEC's position,
the Company added a non-recurring, non-cash charge to its results of operations
for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 related to the issuance of the
Debentures in the amounts of $4,357,000 and $843,000, respectively. The
outstanding principal and accrued interest on the Debentures were paid in full
at April 4, 1997 through conversion into Common Stock. See "Liquidity and
Capital Resources" below.
On January 30, 1998, MRV completed the Xyplex Acquisition from
Whittaker. The purchase price paid to Whittaker consisted of $35,000,000 in cash
and 3-year warrants to purchase up to 421,402 shares of common stock of the
Company at an exercise price of $35 per share. During the year ended December
31, 1995, the period from January 1, 1996 through April 9, 1996 (the day Xyplex
was acquired by Whittaker), the period from April 10, 1996 through October 31,
1996 and the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, Xyplex reported net revenues of
$107,617,000, $28,100,000, $52,021,000, and $75,663,000, respectively, and net
losses of $37,360,000, $2,269,000, $13,353,000 and $80,309,000, respectively. In
connection with the Xyplex Acquisition, the Company incurred charges of
$20,633,000 and $15,671,000 for purchased technology and restructuring.
MRV originally recorded charges of $30,571,000 related to research and
development projects in progress at the time of the Xyplex Acquisition. Although
MRV reported these charges and its first, second and third quarter results of
1998 in accordance with established accounting practice and valuations of
Xyplex' purchased technology in progress provided by independent valuators,
these valuations have been reconsidered in light of very recent Securities and
Exchange Commission guidance regarding valuation methodology. Based on this new
valuation methodology, MRV has reduced the value of the purchased technology in
progress related to the Xyplex Acquisition to $20,633,000 and increased the
amount of goodwill by $9,938,000. This has resulted in additional charges during
1998 of $759,000 for intangibles, including goodwill, resulting from the Xyplex
Acquisition and will result in charges of approximately $828,000 annually as
these intangibles are amortized through January 2010.
Recent actions and comments from the Securities and Exchange Commission
have indicated that the Commission is reviewing the current valuation
methodology of purchased in-process research and development related to business
combinations. Unlike the case of many other companies, the Commission has not
notified MRV of any plans to review MRV's methodology for valuing purchased
in-process research and development. The Company's action to reconsider that
valuaton of in process research and development related to the Xyplex
Acquisition has been voluntary. The Company believes it is in compliance with
all of the rules and related guidance as they currently exist. However, there
can be no assurance that the Commission will not review MRV's accounting for the
Xyplex Acquisition and seek to apply retroactively new guidance and further
reduce the amount of purchased in-process research and development expensed by
the Company. This would result in an additional restatement of previously filed
financial statements of the Company and could have a material adverse impact on
financial results for periods subsequent to the acquisition.
The Company's international sales are not concentrated in any specific
country. The estimated operating profit from international sales for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998 were $8,009,000, $18,113,000 and
$11,733,000, respectively. The amount for the year ended December 31, 1996 is
before non-recurring charges. Including non-recurring charges, operating loss
from international sales for the year ended December 31, 1996 was $16,054,000.
At December 31, 1996 and 1997, 14.2% and 17.1%, respectively, of the Company's
assets were located in the Middle East. At December 31, 1998, the Company's
assets in the Middle East were not material. At December 31, 1997 and 1998,
14.4% and 20.7%, respectively, of the Company's assets were located in the
European Community. Except for such assets, there were no significant assets
located in geographic regions outside of the U.S. at December 31, 1996, 1997 or
1998.
31
<PAGE> 32
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, statements of
operations data of the Company expressed as a percentage of revenues.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended December 31,
----------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues, net ........................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of goods sold ...................................... 58.0 57.2 61.5
Write-down of discontinued products ..................... -- -- 1.2
Research and development expenses ....................... 9.2 7.9 9.8
Selling, general and administrative expenses ............ 15.8 16.5 21.5
------ ------ ------
Operating income before purchased technology in
progress and restructuring costs ...................... 17.0 18.3 6.1
Purchased technology in progress ........................ 20.0 -- 7.8
Restructuring costs ..................................... 7.9 -- 5.9
------ ------ ------
Operating income (loss) ................................. (10.9) 18.3 (7.6)
Other income (expense), net ............................. 0.2 1.7 2.6
Interest expense related to convertible debentures/notes (4.9) (0.5) (0.9)
------ ------ ------
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes, minority
interests and extraordinary item ...................... (15.6) 19.5 (6.0)
Provision (credit) for income taxes ..................... (5.0) 5.7 2.2
Minority interests ...................................... 0.2 0.1 0.5
Gain on repurchase of convertible notes, net of tax ..... -- -- 1.1
------ ------ ------
Net income (loss) ....................................... (10.9)% 13.6% (7.6)%
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
Years ended December 31, 1998 and 1997
Revenues. Revenues for the year ended December 31, 1998 were
$264,075,000, compared to $165,471,000 for the year ended December 31, 1997, an
increase of 59.6%. Revenues from sales of networking products and optical
transmission products were 81.5% and 18.5%, respectively, of total revenues
during the year ended December 31, 1998 as compared to 76.1% and 23.9%,
respectively, of total revenues during the year ended December 31, 1997.
Revenues increased as a result of a larger sales force, greater marketing
efforts and greater market acceptance of the Company's products, both
domestically and internationally. The increase in sales of networking products
during the year ended December 31, 1998 over 1997 was the result of an
increased number of networking products available for sale and a larger sales,
marketing and customer support organization to support such sales. International
sales accounted for approximately 59.3% of revenues for year ended December 31,
1998, as compared to 59.8% of revenues for year ended December 31, 1997.
Gross Profit; Write-down of Discontinued Products. Gross profit for the
year ended December 31, 1998 was $101,791,000 compared to $70,762,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1997. The changes represented an increase of $31,029,000
or 43.8% for the year ended December 31, 1997. Gross Profit as a percentage of
revenues decreased from 42.8% during the year ended December 31, 1997 to 38.5%
for the year ended December 31, 1998 as a result of intense price competition
from competitors. The Company had planned to compensate for such price
competition by introducing new lower cost products during the latter half of
1998. However, while the Company did begin shipping such products during the
last quarter of 1998, they were introduced too late in the year to make
meaningful contributions to revenue.
32
<PAGE> 33
During the last quarter of 1998, the Company determined to discontinue
some of its low-end networking products that were not sufficiently profitable
and this resulted in a one time write-down of $3,101,000.
Research and Development. For the years ended December 31, 1998 and
1997, research and development expenses ("R&D") expenses were $25,817,000 and
$13,093,000, respectively. R&D expenses as a percentage of revenues increased
from 7.9% of revenues during year ended December 31, 1997, to 9.8% of revenues
for year ended December 31, 1998. This increase was primarily caused by
additional developed projects commenced during the year and associated personnel
costs as well as increased expenses resulting from personnel added to existing
projects.. The Company intends to continue to invest in the research and
development of new products. Management believes that the ability of the Company
to develop and commercialize new products is a key competitive factor.
Selling, General and Administrative. For the years ended December 31,
1998 and 1997, selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses increased
to $56,753,000 rom $27,365,000. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A increased from
16.5% for the year ended December 31, 1997 to 21.5% for the year ended December
31, 1998. The increases in SG&A expense, both in dollar amounts and as a
percentage of sales were due primarily to substantially increased marketing
efforts as well as the addition of personnel and overhead costs in additional
and expanded locations.
Purchased Technology in Progress and Restructuring Costs. Purchased
technology in progress for the year ended December 31, 1998 was $20,633,000. The
purchased technology in 1998 was related to R&D projects of Xyplex in progress
at the time of the Xyplex Acquisition on January 30, 1998, which had not yet
reached technological feasibility and for which the Company had no alternative
future use. Restructuring costs during the year ended December 31, 1998 were
$15,671,000. The restructuring costs in 1998 were associated with a plan adopted
by the Company in March 1998 calling for the reduction of workforce, closing of
certain facilities, elimination of particular product lines, settlement of
distribution agreements and other costs. The restructuring costs incurred in
first quarter of 1998 as a result of the Xyplex Acquisition was offset by a
restructuring credit of $7,523,000 booked during the last quarter of 1998 in
connection with Company's decision to consolidate the Xyplex and NBase
organizations. This credit principally resulted from the renegotiation of
Xyplex' lease in Littletown, Massachusetts and a reevaluation reducing the
anticipated cost of discontinuing some of Xyplex' legacy products. The Company
did not incur these charges or receive a similar credit in 1997.
Interest Expense Related to Convertible Debt. In September 1996, the
Company completed a private placement of $30,000,000 principal amount of
convertible Debentures. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources," below. To give
effect to the accounting treatment announced by the staff of the Securities and
Exchange Commission at the March 13, 1997 meeting of the Emerging Issues Task
Force relevant to the Company's issuance of the Debentures having "beneficial
conversion" features, the value of the fixed discount has been reflected in the
Company's consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31,
1996 and 1997 as additional interest expense and such fixed discount was
accreted through the first possible conversion date of the respective issuance.
These interest charges amounted to $843,000 from January 1 to April 4, 1997,
when the Company paid the outstanding principal and accrued interest of the
Debentures in full through conversion into Common Stock.
On June 26, 1998, the Company sold $100,000,000 principal amount of 5%
convertible subordinated notes due 2003 (the "Notes") in a 144A private
placement to qualified institutional investors at 100% of their principal
amount, less a selling discount of 3% of the principal amount. This resulted in
interest expense of $2,480,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998.
Gain on Repurchase of Notes. The Company recorded a gain of $2,791,000,
net of tax, when it repurchased at a discount from par during the last quarter
of 1998 $10,000,000 principal amount of the Notes.
33
<PAGE> 34
Net Income (Loss). The Company reported a net loss of $20,106,000 during
the year ended December 31, 1998. Net income for the year ended December 31,
1998 would have been $14,869,000, excluding charges associated with the Xyplex
Acquisition of $20,633,000 for purchased technology in progress and $15,671,000
for restructuring and the $3,101,000 write-down of discontinued products and a
$4,430,000 gain on the repurchase of the Notes during the fourth quarter of
1998. This compares to net income of $22,585,000 the Company reported for the
year ended December 31, 1997.
Years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996
Revenues. Revenues for the year ended December 31, 1997 were
$165,471,000, compared to $88,815,000 for the year ended December 31, 1996, an
increase of 86.3%. Revenues from sales of networking products and optical
transmission products were 76.1% and 23.9%, respectively, of total revenues
during the year ended December 31, 1997 as compared to 69.4% and 30.6%,
respectively, of total revenues during the year ended December 31, 1996.
Revenues increased as a result of greater marketing efforts and greater market
acceptance of the Company's products, both domestically and internationally.
International sales accounted for approximately 59.8% of revenues for year ended
December 31, 1997, as compared to 53.0% of revenues for year ended December 31,
1996. International sales, as a percentage of total revenues, increased mainly
as a result of increased sales, marketing and support resources in place in
Europe and increased sales to the Pacific Rim region. While the Company has
achieved significant revenue growth in previous periods, there can be no
assurance that the Company will sustain such growth.
Gross Profit. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1997 was
$70,762,000 compared to $37,337,000 for the year ended December 31, 1996. The
changes represented an increase of $33,425,000 or 89.5% for the year ended
December 31, 1997. Gross Profit as a percentage of revenues increased from 42.0%
during the year ended December 31, 1996 to 42.8% for the year ended December 31,
1997 as a result of increased sales of higher margin products such as the
MegaSwitch family of products as well as lower cost production techniques.
Research and Development. For the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1996, R&D expenses were $13,093,000 and $8,201,000, respectively. In the case of
absolute dollars, the 59.7% increase in R&D spending during the year ended
December 31, 1997 over the year ended December 31, 1996 was attributable to the
continued development of the Company's networking and fiber optic products
including Ethernet/Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet switches, GigaHub modules,
GigaFrame switch and fiber optic components. Additional costs were also
associated with the hiring of new research and development personnel and
consultants. R&D expenses as a percentage of revenues declined from 9.2% of
revenues during year ended December 31, 1996, to 7.9% of revenues for year ended
December 31, 1997. This decrease was primarily caused because the Company's
revenues during the periods increased at a faster rate than R&D expenses. The
Company intends to continue to invest in the research and development of new
products. Management believes that the ability of the Company to develop and
commercialize new products is a key competitive factor.
Selling, General and Administrative. For the years ended December 31,
1997 and 1996, SG&A expenses increased to $27,365,000 from $14,025,000. As a
percentage of revenues, SG&A increased from 15.8% for the year ended December
31, 1996 to 16.5% for the year ended December 31, 1997. The increases in SG&A
expense, both in dollar amounts and as a percentage of sales were due primarily
to substantially increased marketing efforts as well as the addition of
personnel and overhead costs in additional and expanded locations.
Purchased Technology in Progress and Restructuring Costs. Purchased
technology in progress for the year ended December 31, 1996 was $17,795,000. The
purchased technology in 1996 was for R&D projects of Fibronics in progress at
the time of the Fibronics Acquisition on September 26, 1996. Restructuring costs
during the year ended December 31, 1996 were $6,974,000. The restructuring in
1996 was associated with a plan adopted by the Company on September 30, 1996, in
conjunction with the Fibronics Acquisition, calling for the reduction of
workforce, closing of certain facilities,
34
<PAGE> 35
retraining of certain employees and elimination of particular product lines.
Purchased technology in progress for the year ended December 31, 1995 was
$6,211,000. The Company did not incur these charges in 1997.
Interest Expense Related to Convertible Debentures and Acquisition. In
September 1996, the Company completed a private placement of $30,000,000
principal amount of convertible Debentures. See "Liquidity and Capital
Resources," below. To give effect to the accounting treatment announced by the
staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission at the March 13, 1997 meeting of
the Emerging Issues Task Force relevant to the Company's issuance of the
Debentures having "beneficial conversion" features, the value of the fixed
discount has been reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements
for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 as additional interest expense
and such fixed discount was accreted through the first possible conversion date
of the respective issuance. The Company paid the outstanding principal and
accrued interest of the Debentures in full at April 4, 1997 through conversion
into Common Stock. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.
Net Income. Net income increased to $22,585,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1997 from a net loss of $9,654,000 for the year ended December 31,
1996. Net losses during the year ended December 31, 1996 were the result of
aggregate charges related to the Company's acquisition of Fibronics from Elbit,
including charges from purchased technology in progress, restructuring costs and
the interest on the Debentures. Excluding these non-recurring charges, net of
tax effects, of $20,209,000, net income for the year ended December 31, 1996
would have been $10,555,000. Excluding non-recurring charges from interest on
the Debentures, net income for the year ended December 31, 1997 would have been
$23,428,000.
Selected Quarterly Financial Data
The following table sets forth certain selected operating data for the quarters
indicated. This information has been derived from the unaudited consolidated
financial statements of the Company which in the opinion of management contain
all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a
fair presentation of such information. These operating results are not
necessarily indicative of results for any future period and results may
fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter in the future.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Amounts in thousands)
1996 1997 1998
------------------------------- ------------------------------- -------------------------------
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues, net..................... $15,529 $19,586 $22,664 $31,036 $35,564 $39,528 $41,979 $48,400 $60,826 $65,742 $62,624 $74,883
Gross profit...................... 6,540 8,175 9,382 13,240 15,388 16,643 18,174 20,557 26,821 28,993 24,280 21,697
Operating income (loss) before
purchased technology in progress
and restructuring costs......... 2,720 3,224 3,558 5,609 6,865 7,370 8,131 7,938 9,978 11,385 1,619 (6,862)
Operating income (loss)........... 2,720 3,224 (21,211) 5,609 6,865 7,370 8,131 7,938 (33,849) 11,385 1,619 661
Net income (loss)................. 1,879 2,283 (15,504) 1,688 4,343 5,209 5,922 7,111 (30,221) 8,528 1,348 239
</TABLE>
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
In September 1997, the Company completed a follow-on public offering of
2,785,000 shares of Common Stock raising net proceeds of approximately
$93,320,000 (the "1997 Public Offering"). In June 1998, the Company sold an
aggregate $100,000,000 principal amount of 5% convertible subordinated notes due
2003 (the "Notes") in a private placement raising net proceeds of $96,423,000
(the "1998 Private Placement"). The Notes are convertible into Common Stock of
the Company at a conversion price of $27.0475 per share (equivalent to a
conversion rate of approximately 36.97 shares per $1,000 principal amount of
notes), representing an initial conversion premium of 24%, for a total of
approximately 3.7 million shares of Common Stock of the Company. The Notes have
a five-year term and are not callable for the first three years. Interest on the
Notes is at 5% per annum and is payable semi-annually on June 15 and December
15, commencing on December 15, 1998.
35
<PAGE> 36
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31,
1998 was $6,946,000. The funds were used primarily to pay down accounts payable
and accrued expenses and for restructuring costs in connection with the Xyplex
Acquisition. Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December
31, 1998 was $84,164,000. Cash used in the Xyplex Acquisition and net purchases
of United States treasury securities accounted for the majority of the cash used
in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 1998 and cash provided
by the sale of investments to finance the Xyplex Acquisition accounted for most
of the cash provided by investing activities for the same period. The sale of
the Notes in the 1998 Private Placement accounted for substantially all of the
$92,438,000 of cash provided by financing activities during the year ended
December 31, 1998.
Net cash used in operating activities for the years ended December 31,
1997 was $2,761,000. The funds were used primarily for increased inventories and
receivables as a result of increased revenues. Net cash provided by financing
activities for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 were $95,153,000 and
$38,882,000, respectively. The cash provided by financing activities in 1997
came principally from the proceeds from the 1997 Public Offering, which were
partially offset by the repurchase of the Common Stock from Elbit. Net cash used
in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 1997 was $87,454,000.
The cash used in investing activities was primarily used to purchase investments
in U.S. Government securities.
Accounts receivable were $54,596,000 at December 31, 1998 as compared to
$47,258,000 at December 31, 1997. The increase in accounts receivable was
primarily attributable to the increase in overall sales.
Inventories were $47,467,000 at December 31, 1998 as compared to
$41,689,000 at December 31, 1997. The increase in inventories was primarily
attributable to the Company's decision to add larger inventories to shorten lead
times for customers and the Xyplex Acquisition. Management believes that the
Company's inventory levels at various points in time may not necessarily be
comparable to those of many other companies in its industry. This is because MRV
conducts significant in-house manufacturing of various components used in its
products and thus carries substantial raw materials and work-in-progress in
addition to finished products in its inventories. In contrast, many competitors
outsource to turnkey contract manufacturers substantial portions of their
production requirements and thus do not include material amounts of raw
materials or work in progress in inventories and may in some circumstances not
even include finished products in inventory if the contract manufacturer ships
directly to the competitors' customers.
Royalties are payable by the Company, as the successor to Galcom, Ace
and Fibronics, to the Office of the Chief Scientist of Israel ("OCS") at rates
of approximately 2% to 3% on proceeds from the sale of products arising from the
research and development activities for which OCS has provided grants. The total
amount of royalties may not exceed the amount of the grants. The Company does
not expect that revenues from royalty bearing products will result in material
royalty payment obligations in the future.
EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES
The Company believes that the relatively moderate rate of inflation in
the United States over the past few years has not had a significant impact on
the Company's sales or operating results or on the prices of raw materials.
However, in view of the Company's recent expansion of operations in Israel which
has experienced substantial inflation, there can be no assurance that inflation
in Israel will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operating
results in the future.
The Company's sales are currently denominated in U.S. dollars and to
date its business has not been significantly affected by currency fluctuations
or inflation. However, the Company conducts business in several different
countries and thus fluctuations in currency exchange rates could cause the
Company's products to become relatively more expensive in particular countries,
leading to a reduction in sales in that country. In addition, inflation or
fluctuations in currency exchange rates in such countries could increase the
Company's expenses. To date, the Company has not hedged against
36
<PAGE> 37
currency exchange risks. In the future, the Company may engage in foreign
currency denominated sales or pay material amounts of expenses in foreign
currencies and, in such event, may experience gains and losses due to currency
fluctuations. The Company's operating results could be adversely affected by
such fluctuations or as a result of inflation in particular countries where
material expenses are incurred.
POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS
The Company does not provide post-retirement benefits affected by SFAS
106.
YEAR 2000
Many existing computer programs, including some programs used by the
Company, use only two digits to identify a year in the date field. These
programs were designed without considering the impact of the upcoming change in
the century. If not corrected, these computer applications and systems could
fail or create erroneous results by, at, or after the year 2000. The Company is
currently conducting a company-wide Year 2000 compliance program ("Y2K
Program"). The Y2K Program is addressing the issue of computer programs and
embedded computer chips being unable to distinguish between the year 1900 and
the year 2000. Therefore, some computer hardware and software will need to be
modified prior to the Year 2000 in order to remain functional. The Company
anticipates that Year 2000 compliance will be substantially complete by
September 1999.
The Company's Y2K Program is divided into four major sections: Company
manufactured products, internal information systems, non-information technology
systems, and third-party suppliers and customers. The general phases common to
all sections are: (1) inventorying Year 2000 items; (2) assessing the Year 2000
compliance of items determined to be material to the Company; and (3) repairing
or replacing material items that are determined not to be Year 2000 compliant.
The Company has completed the review of all its products for Year 2000
compliance purposes. The Company believes that its products are either Year 2000
compliant or at the election of the customer can be upgraded to be Year 2000
compliant.
The Company is currently evaluating and addressing Year 2000 issues
associated with its internal information systems. Most of the Company's
information computer systems are already Year 2000 compliant. The Company
expects to finish the evaluation by April 1999. Other internal information
systems that have been identified as non-compliant will be upgraded to be Year
2000 compliant by September 1999.
The Company is currently evaluating and addressing Year 2000 issues
associated with its non-information technology systems. Most of these systems
are already Year 2000 compliant. The Company expects to finish the evaluation by
April 1999. Those non-information technology systems that are not Year 2000
compliant will be repaired or replaced September 1999.
The Company is currently assessing the possible effects on the
Company's operations of the Year 2000 compliance of its key suppliers and
contract manufacturers. The Company expects this assessment will be completed by
April 1999. The Company's reliance on suppliers and contract manufacturers and,
therefore, on the proper functioning of their information systems and software,
means that failure to address Year 2000 issues could have a material impact on
the Company's operations and financial results. However, the potential impact
and related costs are not known at this time.
Through December 31, 1998 the Company spent approximately $200,000 to
implement the Year 2000 compliance program. That amount has been expensed as
incurred. The Company estimates that it may spend up to an additional $500,000
37
<PAGE> 38
for other replacements or upgrades and for communicating with key suppliers and
customers. That amount will also be expensed as incurred.
The failure to correct a material Year 2000 problem could result in an
interruption in, or a failure of, certain normal business activities or
operations. Such failures could materially and adversely affect the Company's
results of operations, liquidity and financial condition. Due to the general
uncertainty inherent in the Year 2000 problem resulting in part from the
uncertainty of the Year 2000 readiness of third-party suppliers and customers,
the Company is unable to determine at this time whether the consequences of Year
2000 failures will have a material impact on the Company's results of
operations, liquidity or financial condition. The Y2K Program is expected to
significantly reduce the Company's level of uncertainty about the Year 2000
problem and, in particular, about the Year 2000 compliance and readiness of its
material key suppliers and customers. The Company believes that, with the
implementation of new business systems and completion of the Y2K Program as
scheduled, the possibility of significant interruptions of normal operations
should be reduced. The Company does not have a contingency plan to address the
Y2000 problem.
Year 2000 compliance is an issue for virtually all businesses whose
computer systems and applications may require significant hardware and software
upgrades or modifications. Companies owning and operating such systems may plan
to devote a substantial portion of their information systems' spending to fund
such upgrades and modifications and divert spending away from networking or
fiber optic solutions. Such changes in customers' spending patterns could have a
material adverse impact on the Company's sales, operating results or financial
condition.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The following financial statements are filed as part of this Report:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Report of Independent Public Accountants......................................... F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and 1998..................... F-2
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998................ F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the three
years in the period ended December 31, 1998...................................... F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 1998............................................... F-8
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements....................................... F-10
</TABLE>
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
38
<PAGE> 39
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To MRV Communications, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of MRV
COMMUNICATIONS, INC. (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries as of December
31, 1997 and 1998, and the related consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 1998. These financial statements
are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on these financial statements 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.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of MRV Communications, Inc. and
subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1998, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1998 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 15, 1999
F-1
<PAGE> 40
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,
-------------------------
1997 1998
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 19,428 $ 20,692
Short-term investments 36,413 30,493
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of
$4,252 in 1997 and $8,487 in 1998 47,258 54,596
Inventories 41,689 47,467
Deferred income tax asset 2,280 5,035
Other current assets 7,248 5,508
--------- ---------
Total current assets 154,316 163,791
--------- ---------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, at cost:
Building 3,127 3,814
Machinery and equipment 4,294 10,141
Furniture and fixtures 560 3,906
Computer hardware and software 2,134 9,169
Leasehold improvements 710 1,528
--------- ---------
10,825 28,558
Less--Accumulated depreciation and
amortization (2,642) (9,201)
--------- ---------
8,183 19,357
--------- ---------
OTHER ASSETS:
Investments 62,382 100,138
Deferred income tax asset 6,231 5,661
Intangibles and goodwill, net of accumulated
amortization of $372 in 1997
and $3,405 in 1998 5,077 26,666
Other 47 4,579
--------- ---------
73,737 137,044
--------- ---------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 236,236 $ 320,192
========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated balance sheets.
F-2
<PAGE> 41
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 31,
-------------------------
1997 1998
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current portion of capital
lease obligations $ 111 $ 185
Accounts payable 30,439 29,757
Accrued liabilities 8,429 13,606
Accrued restructuring cost -- 82
Customer deposit 293 --
Income taxes payable 3,485 445
Deferred revenue -- 4,398
--------- ---------
Total current liabilities 42,757 48,473
--------- ---------
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
Convertible notes -- 90,000
Capital lease obligations, net of
current portion 788 1,400
Other long-term liabilities 2,065 2,917
--------- ---------
Total long-term liabilities 2,853 94,317
--------- ---------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 9)
MINORITY INTEREST 657 2,973
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value:
Authorized - 1,000 shares;
no shares issued or outstanding -- --
Common stock, $0.0034 par value:
Authorized - 80,000 shares
Issued and outstanding - 26,360
shares in 1997; 26,663 and
26,639 in 1998, respectively 88 88
Capital in excess of par value 175,874 180,656
Retained earnings (deficit) 14,635 (5,471)
Treasury stock -- (133)
Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) (628) (711)
--------- ---------
189,969 174,429
--------- ---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 236,236 $ 320,192
========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated balance sheets.
F-3
<PAGE> 42
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In Thousands, except for per share data)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES, net: $ 88,815 $ 165,471 $ 264,075
--------- --------- ---------
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Cost of goods sold 51,478 94,709 165,385
Research and development expenses 8,201 13,093 25,817
Selling, general and
administrative expenses 14,025 27,365 56,753
Purchased technology in
progress 17,795 -- 20,633
Restructuring costs 6,974 -- 15,671
--------- --------- ---------
98,473 135,167 284,259
--------- --------- ---------
Operating income (loss) (9,658) 30,304 (20,184)
--------- --------- ---------
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest expense related to
convertible debentures
and acquisition (4,357) (843) --
Interest expense related to
convertible notes -- -- (2,480)
Minority interest (196) (146) (1,345)
Interest income 702 2,841 4,661
Interest expense (743) (118) (700)
Other 194 21 2,858
--------- --------- ---------
(4,400) 1,755 2,994
--------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) before provision
(benefit) for income taxes
and extraordinary item (14,058) 32,059 (17,190)
PROVISION (BENEFIT) FOR INCOME TAXES (4,404) 9,474 5,707
--------- --------- ---------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE EXTRAORDINARY ITEM (9,654) 22,585 (22,897)
--------- --------- ---------
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM--
Gain on repurchase of convertible
notes, net of tax of $1,639 -- -- 2,791
--------- --------- ---------
NET INCOME (LOSS) (9,654) 22,585 (20,106)
--------- --------- ---------
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(LOSS), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation
adjustment 15 (643) (83)
--------- --------- ---------
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS $ (9,639) $ 21,942 $ (20,189)
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
F-4
<PAGE> 43
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In Thousands, except for per share data)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
-------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------- -------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE
INFORMATION:
Basic earnings (loss) per
common share $ (0.49) $ 0.95 $ (0.76)
======= ======== ==========
Diluted earnings (loss)
per common share $ (0.49) $ 0.88 $ (0.76)
======= ======== ==========
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:
Basic 19,739 23,670 26,532
======= ======== ==========
Diluted 19,739 25,734 26,532
======= ======== ==========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated statements.
F-5
<PAGE> 44
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Common Stock Capital in Retained Other
----------------------- Excess of Earnings Treasury Comprehensive
Shares Amount Par Value (Deficit) Stock Income (loss) Total
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---- ------------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE,
December 31, 1995 19,049 $ 63 $ 23,491 $ 1,704 -- -- $25,258
Shares held by trustee
relating to Fibronics
acquisition 137 -- -- -- -- -- --
Conversion of debentures 812 2 12,851 -- -- -- 12,853
Exercise of stock warrants
and options 1,088 4 4,938 -- -- -- 4,942
Issuance of common stock
for cash 200 1 3,999 -- -- -- 4,000
Interest expense related to
convertible debentures
and acquisitions
(see Note 4) -- -- 4,357 -- -- -- 4,357
Translation adjustments -- -- -- -- -- 15 15
Net loss -- -- -- (9,654) -- -- (9,654)
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---- -------- --------
BALANCE,
December 31, 1996 21,286 70 49,636 (7,950) -- 15 41,771
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---- -------- --------
Issuance of common stock
in connection with
public offering 2,785 9 93,311 -- -- -- 93,320
Issuance of common stock
in connection with
the acquisition of
Fibronics Ltd. 275 1 6,299 -- -- -- 6,300
Return of shares held
by trustee relating
to Fibronics acquisition (137) -- -- -- -- -- --
Conversion of debentures 1,013 4 17,737 -- -- -- 17,741
Exercise of stock warrants
and options 1,138 4 8,464 -- -- -- 8,468
Interest expense related
to convertible debentures
and acquisition -- -- 427 -- -- -- 427
Translation adjustments -- -- -- -- -- (643) (643)
Net income -- -- -- 22,585 -- -- 22,585
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---- -------- --------
BALANCE,
December 31, 1997 26,360 88 175,874 14,635 -- (628) 189,969
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---- -------- --------
</TABLE>
F-6
<PAGE> 45
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Common Stock Capital in Retained Other
------------------------- Excess of Earnings Treasury Comprehensive
Shares Amount Par Value (Deficit) Stock Income (loss) Total
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Exercise of stock
warrants and options 303 -- 1,510 -- -- -- 1,510
Issuance of warrants
in connection with
the acquisition of
Xyplex -- -- 3,272 -- -- -- 3,272
Purchase of treasury
stock (24) -- -- -- (133) -- (133)
Translation adjustments -- -- -- -- -- (83) (83)
Net loss -- -- -- (20,106) -- -- (20,106)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
BALANCE,
December 31, 1998 26,639 $ 88 $ 180,656 $ (5,471) $ (133) $ (711) $ 174,429
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated statements.
F-7
<PAGE> 46
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss) $ (9,654) $ 22,585 $ (20,106)
Adjustments to reconcile net income
(loss) to net cash used in
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 943 1,439 7,902
Provision for losses on accounts
receivable 1,643 1,951 2,591
Loss on sale of property and
equipment 192 -- --
Realized gain on investment (180) (215) (2,535)
Purchased technology in progress 17,795 -- 20,633
Extraordinary gain on repurchase
of convertible notes -- -- (2,791)
Interest related to convertible
debentures and acquisition 4,357 843 --
Other -- 37 324
Minority interests' share of income 196 146 1,345
Changes in assets and
liabilities, net of effects
from acquisitions:
Decrease (increase) in:
Accounts receivable (10,937) (22,568) 12,263
Inventories (5,697) (21,867) 3,453
Deferred income taxes (6,839) 185 1,408
Other assets (3,031) (2,824) 2,008
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable 1,912 17,435 (19,505)
Accrued liabilities and
restructuring 6,623 (2,092) (7,438)
Income taxes payable 798 3,622 (7,006)
Customer deposits 1,500 (1,207) --
Accrued severance pay 231 (231) --
Deferred revenue -- -- 508
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash used in operating
activities (148) (2,761) (6,946)
--------- --------- ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment (2,593) (1,207) (6,337)
Purchases of investments (45,612) (148,948) (206,846)
Proceeds from sale of investments 29,133 67,990 173,714
Restricted cash 6,272 -- --
Cash used in acquisitions, net of
cash received (13,247) (5,289) (44,695)
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash used in
investing activities (26,047) (87,454) (84,164)
--------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>
F-8
<PAGE> 47
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of
common stock 8,942 99,638 1,510
Proceeds from the issuance of
debentures 30,000 -- --
Repurchase of common stock issued in
connection with acquisition -- (4,230) --
Proceeds from issuance of
convertible notes -- -- 96,423
Principal payments on capital
lease obligations (60) (255) (62)
Repurchase of convertible notes -- -- (5,300)
Purchase of treasury stock -- -- (133)
-------- -------- --------
Net cash provided by
financing activities 38,882 95,153 92,438
-------- -------- --------
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES
ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 3 (151) (64)
NET INCREASE IN CASH
AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 12,690 4,787 1,264
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,
beginning of year 1,951 14,641 19,428
-------- -------- --------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,
end of year $ 14,641 $ 19,428 $ 20,692
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
consolidated statements.
F-9
<PAGE> 48
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 1998
1. BACKGROUND
MRV Communications, Inc. (the Company) designs, manufactures, markets and
sells high speed network switching and fiber optic transmission systems which
enhance the performance of existing data and telecommunications networks. The
Company sells two groups of products: (1) computer networking products,
primarily Ethernet local area network (LAN) switches, wide area network (WAN)
and remote access devices, and (2) fiber optic components for the transmission
of voice, video and data across enterprise telecommunications and cable TV
networks. The Company's networking solutions enhance the functionality of LAN's
and WAN's by reducing network congestion while allowing end users to preserve
their investments in pre-existing networks and providing cost-effective
migration paths to next generation technologies such as Gigabit Ethernet. The
Company markets and sells its products both domestically and internationally.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its wholly-owned subsidiaries, NBase Communications, Inc., NBase Communications,
Ltd. (Nbase Ltd.), NBase Europe GmbH (Nbase Europe), NBase Fibronics, Ltd.
(Fibronics), Netsoft Solutions, Ltd. (Netsoft), Turnkey, Kempton Communications,
Nbase Xyplex, its 70 percent-owned subsidiary, EDSLAN SRL (EDS) and its 50
percent-owned subsidiary, RDS. All significant intercompany transactions and
accounts have been eliminated.
Foreign Currency Translation
The financial statements of NBase Ltd. and Fibronics have been prepared in
U.S. dollars as the currency of the primary economic environment in which the
operations of these companies are conducted is the U.S. dollar. Thus, the
functional currency of these companies is the U.S. dollar.
Transactions and balances originally denominated in U.S. dollars are
presented at their original amounts. Transactions and balances in other
currencies are converted into U.S. dollars in accordance with Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 52, and are included in determining net
income or loss.
The financial statements of NBase Europe, Netsoft, Turnkey, Kempton
Communications, EDS and RDS have been prepared in the companies' local
currencies and have been translated into U.S. dollars. The functional currency
for these companies is their local currency.
Assets and liabilities are translated from the local currencies into U.S.
dollars at the exchange rate prevailing at the balance sheet date. Revenues,
expenses and cash flows are translated at weighted average exchange rates for
the period to approximate translation at the exchange rates prevailing at the
dates those elements are recognized in the financial statements. Translation
adjustments resulting from the process of translating the local currency
financial statements into U.S. dollars are included in determining comprehensive
income(loss).
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
F-10
<PAGE> 49
Stock-Based Compensation Plan
The Company accounts for its stock based compensation plans under the
provisions of APB Opinion No. 25. The Company has elected to follow the
disclosure provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123
(SFAS 123), "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation", beginning January 1, 1995
for employee awards. See Note 10 for disclosure of pro forma income (loss) and
income (loss) per common share amounts for the years ended December 31, 1996,
1997 and 1998 as required by SFAS 123.
Revenue Recognition
The Company realizes revenue from sales of hardware products, from the sale
of related software and from maintenance contracts. Revenue on product sales is
recognized at the time of shipment. Revenue related to software and software
maintenance contracts is recognized in accordance with the American Institute of
Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Statement of Position No. 97-2, "Software
Revenue Recognition." Maintenance revenues for customer support are deferred and
recognized ratably over the term of the maintenance period (generally one to
three years).
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity
of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company maintains cash balances and investments in highly qualified
financial institutions. At various times such amounts are in excess of insured
limits.
Investments
The Company accounts for its investments under the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in
Debt and Equity Securities."
At December 31, 1997 and 1998, short- and long-term investments consisted
principally of U.S. Treasury notes. As defined by the standard, the Company has
classified its investments in these debt securities as "held-to-maturity"
investments and all investments are recorded at their amortized cost basis,
which approximated their fair value at December 31, 1997 and 1998. All
short-term investments mature by December 1999.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market
and consist of material, labor and overhead.
Inventories consisted of the following as of December 31, 1997 and 1998 (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1998
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Raw materials............................ $17,568 $17,409
Work-in-process.......................... 13,436 10,118
Finished goods........................... 10,685 19,940
------- -------
$41,689 $47,467
======= =======
</TABLE>
Software Development Costs
In accordance with SFAS No. 86, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer
Software to be Sold, Leased, or Otherwise Marketed", development costs related
to software products are expensed as incurred until the technological
feasibility of the product has been established. Technological feasibility in
the Company's circumstances occurs when a working model is completed. After
technological feasibility is established, additional costs would be capitalized.
The Company believes its process for developing software is essentially
completed concurrent with the establishment of technological feasibility, and,
accordingly, no software development costs have been capitalized to date.
F-11
<PAGE> 50
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Maintenance and repairs are
charged to expense as incurred, while significant replacements and betterments
are capitalized.
Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method
based upon the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Useful lives range
from three to thirty-three years.
Intangibles and Goodwill
The intangibles and goodwill resulted from the Company's acquisitions between
1995 and 1998. It is amortized on a straight-line basis over 8 to 12 years. The
Company continually evaluates the recoverability of goodwill by assessing
whether the recorded value will be recovered through future expected operating
results.
Warranty
The Company warrants its products against defects in materials and
workmanship for one to five year periods. The estimated cost of warranty
obligations is recognized at the time of revenue recognition.
Statements of Cash Flows
Cash paid for income taxes was $1,620,000 in 1996, $5,473,000 in 1997 and
$9,945,000 in 1998. Cash paid for interest was $150,000 in 1996, $214,000 in
1997 and $2,569,000 in 1998.
During 1996, the Company acquired property and equipment with a cost of
$1,147,000 through a capital lease agreement. Also in 1996, $12,675,000
principal amount of debentures and $178,000 of accrued interest was converted
into approximately 812,000 shares of common stock.
In 1997, $17,325,000 of convertible debentures and $843,000 of interest
were converted into approximately 1,013,000 of shares common stock. Also, the
Company received $2,150,000 of tax benefits relating to the exercise of
non-qualified stock options.
These non-cash transactions are excluded from the Statements of Cash Flows.
Common Stock Splits
On May 20, 1996, the Company effected a 3 for 2 stock split of its common
stock, and on July 29, 1996, the Company effected a 2 for 1 stock split of its
common stock. All share amounts set forth in these consolidated financial
statements have been retroactively restated to give effect to these stock
splits.
Net Income (loss) per Common Share
In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, "Earnings Per
Share".
F-12
<PAGE> 51
The following schedule summarizes the information used to compute earnings
per common share (in thousands except per share data):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
---------- ------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income (loss) before extraordinary item ...... $ (9,654) $22,585 $ (22,897)
Extraordinary item-gain on repurchase
of convertible notes, net of the tax (see
Note 5)....................................... -- -- 2,791
---------- ------- ----------
Net income (loss) ............................ $ (9,654) $22,585 $ (20,106)
========== ======= ==========
Weighted average number of common
shares used to compute basic net income
per common share ............................ 19,739 23,670 26,532
Dilutive effect of common share equivalents .. -- 2,064 --
---------- ------- ----------
Weighted average number of common
shares used to compute diluted net income
per common share ............................. 19,739 25,734 26,532
========== ======= ==========
Basic income (loss) per common share
before extraordinary item .................... (.49) .95 (.86)
Diluted income (loss) per common
share before extraordinary item .............. (.49) .88 (.86)
Effect of extraordinary item per basic
common share ................................. -- -- .10
Effect of extraordinary item per
diluted common share ......................... -- -- .10
Basic net income (loss) per common share ..... (.49) .95 (.76)
Diluted net income (loss) per common share ... (.49) .88 (.76)
</TABLE>
Comprehensive Income
On January 1, 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income". For year end financial statements SFAS 130 requires that
comprehensive income, which is the total of net income and all other non-owner
changes in equity, be displayed in the consolidated financial statement with the
same prominence as other consolidated financial statements.
F-13
<PAGE> 52
3. ACQUISITIONS
EDSLAN
In May 1996, the Company purchased 50 percent of the outstanding stock of
EDSLAN SRL, an Italian networking company. The purchase price paid by the
Company was approximately $1,050,000. The purchase agreement calls for the
Company to receive 80 percent of EDS' profits or losses from the date of
acquisition. In June and November 1997, the Company purchased an additional 10
percent of the outstanding stock of EDSLAN SRL, for $500,000, respectively.
Fibronics
On September 26, 1996, the Company acquired certain assets and the
distribution business of Fibronics, Ltd., a computer networking and
telecommunications company located primarily in Israel and Germany. On the date
of acquisition, Fibronics, Ltd. was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Elbit, Ltd.
(Elbit). The purchase price paid by the Company was $22,770,000, of which
$12,240,000 was paid in cash and $10,530,000 was paid through the delivery of
approximately 459,000 shares of the Company's common stock.
The Company guaranteed Elbit that it would realize at least $10,530,000 from
the shares of common stock, plus interest thereon at 0.67% per month from
January 1, 1997 until such shares were resold. The Company secured the guarantee
with a letter of credit from a major bank in the amount of approximately
$4,300,000 and by issuing to a trustee an additional 137,000 shares of common
stock. After January 14, 1997, Elbit could, under certain circumstances, elect
to cause the Company to repurchase up to approximately 275,000 shares for
$6,300,000, plus interest thereon at 0.67% per month from January 1, 1997
through the date of purchase.
In March 1997, the Company and Elbit agreed to amend their agreement
regarding the common stock portion of the purchase price paid to Elbit for the
distribution business of Fibronics, Ltd. First, the Company repurchased
approximately 184,000 shares, paying Elbit $4,230,000 (approximately $23.00 per
share) (plus accrued interest thereon at 0.67% per month from January 1, 1997
through March 13, 1997). Second, with respect to the remaining 275,000 shares
(the "Additional Shares"), the Company guaranteed that the Additional Shares
could be resold by Elbit for at least $6,300,000 (approximately $23.00 per
share), plus interest thereon at 0.67% per month from January 1, 1997 through
the date of Elbit's resale. As part of the amended agreement, Elbit also
returned the 137,000 shares to the Company.
Subsequent to the acquisition date, the Company formed a new subsidiary in
Israel named NBase Fibronics, Ltd. and a new subsidiary in Germany named NBase
Europe GmbH.
Netsoft
In November 1997, the Company agreed to purchase Netsoft Solutions, Ltd.
(Netsoft). Under the agreement, the Company acquired certain assets and the
business operations of Netsoft, a French networking company. The purchase price
paid by the Company was approximately $4,700,000, of which approximately
$2,300,000 was goodwill.
Xyplex
On January 30, 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding stock of
Whittaker Xyplex, Inc. (whose name the Company subsequently changed to Nbase
Xyplex), a subsidiary of the Whittaker Corporation engaged in the design and
manufacture of computer networking products primarily for use in wide area
networks (WAN). The purchase price was $35,000,000 in cash and three-year
warrants to purchase up to 421,402 shares of the Company's common stock at $35
per share.
RDS
In January 1998, the Company acquired 50 percent of the outstanding stock of
RDS, a Swedish networking company. The purchase price was $8,000,000 in cash.
F-14
<PAGE> 53
All acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method of accounting,
and accordingly, the purchase price was allocated to assets acquired and
liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values, as follows (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1998
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Inventory .......................................... $ 3,574 $ 9,231
Accounts receivable ................................ 2,686 23,528
Property and equipment ............................. 1,793 9,274
Other assets ....................................... 315 1,223
Current liabilities and debt ....................... (3,962) (38,026)
-------- --------
Net assets acquired or liabilities assumed 4,406 5,230
Cash paid for legal, consulting and other costs .... (450) (1,426)
Accrued legal, consulting and others costs ......... (365) (574)
Common stock issued to sellers ..................... (10,530) (3,271)
Cash paid to sellers ............................... (13,287) (44,695)
-------- --------
Paid or accrued .......................... (24,632) (49,966)
Allocated to purchased technology in progress ...... 17,795 20,633
-------- --------
Goodwill ........................................... $ 2,431 $ 24,103
======== ========
</TABLE>
4. CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
In September 1996, the Company completed a private placement of $30,000,000
principal amount of convertible debentures. The proceeds from the private
placement were primarily used to finance the Company's 1996 acquisition of
certain assets from Fibronics, Ltd. (see Note 3). The debentures bore interest
at 5 percent per annum, payable semi-annually, and were convertible into common
stock at any time at the option of the holders. A discount from the market price
at the time of conversion applied beginning 90 days after the first issuance of
debentures. The Company could force conversion under certain circumstances and
after certain dates, and the debentures would automatically convert into common
stock at maturity if not previously converted. The conversion price was a
specified percentage of the prevailing market price of the Company's common
stock on the conversion date, which was defined in the debenture agreement as
the average of the closing bid price of a share of the Company's stock for the
five trading days immediately preceding the conversion date. The conversion
price was 85.5 percent of the applicable market price if the debentures were
converted during the 30 days beginning December 6, 1996. The conversion price
decreased by an additional one percent each 30 days after January 4, 1997 until
it reached a floor of 77.5 percent. In 1996, $4,357,000 was recorded as
additional interest expense and as an increase to stockholders' equity relating
to the "beneficial conversion" feature and the fair value of the warrants.
The value of the fixed discount has been reflected in the accompanying
consolidated financial statements as additional interest expense and such fixed
discount has been accreted through the first possible conversion date of the
respective issuance.
As part of the private placement, the Company also issued to the holders
three-year warrants to purchase an aggregate of up to 600,000 shares of common
stock at an exercise price of $26.67 per share. In accordance with SFAS 123, the
fair value of the warrants ($852,000) was recorded as an increase to
stockholders' equity and amortized as additional interest expense over the life
of the debentures.
As of December 31, 1997, all debentures had been converted to common stock.
5. CONVERTIBLE NOTES
In June 1998, the Company completed a private placement of $100,000,000
principal amount five year, convertible subordinated notes. The notes bear
interest at five percent per year, payable semi-annually, and are convertible
into common stock at any time after September 1998, at the option of the
holders. The conversion rate is 36.972 shares of common stock per $1,000
principal amount of notes, equivalent to a conversion price of $27.0475 per
share, an initial premium above market price. The conversion rate is subject to
adjustment in certain circumstances, including dividends payable in common
stock, issuance of stock rights to all holders of common stock or stock splits
or distributions to common stockholders in connection with a tender offer. If a
change in control, as defined, occurs, the holders of the notes have the right
to require the Company to repurchase the notes at face value together with
interest accrued. The Company has the right, after June 2001, to redeem the
notes at 102 percent of face value, and after June 2002 for 101 percent of face
value. The notes are not entitled to the benefits of any sinking fund.
F-15
<PAGE> 54
In connection with the private placement, the Company incurred costs of
$3,577,000. These costs are being amortized over five years, the life of the
notes. Amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 1998 was $360,000.
In November 1998, the Company repurchased $10,000,000 of the notes for
$5,300,000. The Company has recorded an extraordinary gain of $2,791,000, net of
tax, related to the repurchase of the notes. Included in this amount is the
portion of the amortization of expense of the costs attributable to the
repurchased notes.
6. WARRANTS
Common Stock Purchase Warrants
In connection with various public and private offerings of common stock and
acquisitions the Company has issued warrants to purchase additional shares of
common stock.
A summary of warrant activities for 1996, 1997 and 1998 is as follows (number
of shares in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER EXERCISE
OF SHARES PRICES
------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Balance, December 31, 1995 2,132 $ .27 to 7.38
Issued ................. 2,106 8.42 to 26.65
Exercised .............. (776) .27 to 8.42
Redeemed ............... -- --
------- ---------------
Balance, December 31, 1996 3,462 $ .27 to 26.65
Issued ................. 10 32.50
Exercised .............. (766) 1.67 to 14.25
Redeemed ............... -- --
Canceled ............... (100) 20.00
------- ---------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 2,606 $ .27 to 32.50
Issued ................. 421 35.00
Exercised .............. 66 4.25 to 5.60
Redeemed ............... -- --
Canceled ............... (76) 8.42
------- ---------------
Balance, December 31, 1998 3,017 $ .27 to 35.00
======= ===============
</TABLE>
7. PURCHASED TECHNOLOGY IN PROGRESS AND RESTRUCTURING COSTS
In connection with the Company's acquisitions (see Note 3), the Company
acquired incomplete research and development (R&D) projects that will be
included in the current R&D activities of the Company. For projects that will
have no alternative future use to the Company and where technological
feasibility had not yet been established, the Company allocated $17,795,000 and
$20,633,000 to technology in progress and recorded the expense during the years
ended December 31, 1996 and 1998, respectively.
The value of technology in progress acquired as part of the Fibronics
transaction was determined by estimating the costs to the Company to achieve the
same level of completion in such technology had it undertaken to develop the
technology on its own. These estimates were based on the Company's known costs
to employ and support engineers required for such projects at the time of the
acquisition. These products have been substantially completed since the
acquisition. The technologies acquired included systems designed to enhance
enterprise networks with advanced functionality such as support for large
numbers of protocols and high port densities. The technology in progress was
approximately 60 percent complete at the time of acquisition.
The technology in progress acquired as part of the Xyplex transaction in 1998
was valued according to the "milestone" or percentage complete method. This
method established a total estimated cost to complete the projects that
constituted the purchased technology in progress. An estimate was then made as
to the percentage of completion that had been achieved in these projects at the
date of acquisition and this was applied to the overall estimated cost. The
large majority of the value was assigned to the "Edgeblaster", a multifunction
WAN access router designed to combine routing protocols with access technologies
to allow branch and enterprise offices to connect users, employees and remote
offices using digital techniques. The Edgeblaster was approximately 70 percent
complete at the time of the acquisition and its completion depended upon
successful development of digital signal processing technology required to
enable it to compete with similar products in development by other companies.
The development of the Edgeblaster has been substantially completed since the
acquisition.
F-16
<PAGE> 55
Also in connection with the Company's acquisitions, during the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1998, the Company recorded $6,974,000 and $15,671,000 as
restructuring costs, respectively, which primarily related to the closing of
facilities, a reduction of its workforce, elimination of product lines and the
settlement of distribution agreements. The reduction of the workforce in 1996
related to 95 employees, of which seven were upper management personnel. The
reduction of the workforce in 1998 related to 183 employees, of which eight were
upper management personnel.
8. INCOME TAXES
The Company accounts for income taxes under the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 109 (SFAS 109).
Under SFAS 109, deferred income tax assets or liabilities are computed based
on temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of
assets and liabilities using the enacted marginal income tax rate in effect for
the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred income tax
expenses or credits are based on the changes in the deferred income tax assets
or liabilities from period to period.
The components of the net deferred income tax asset at December 31, 1997 and
1998 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1998
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Allowance for bad debts ........ $ 1,071 $ 2,203
Inventory reserve .............. 466 1,512
Warranty reserve ............... 320 992
State income taxes ............. 331 400
Other, net ..................... 92 (72)
-------- --------
Current portion .............. 2,280 5,035
Purchased technology in progress 6,231 5,778
Depreciation ................... -- (117)
-------- --------
6,231 5,661
-------- --------
$ 8,511 $ 10,696
======== ========
</TABLE>
The provision (benefit) for income taxes for the years ended December 31,
1996, 1997 and 1998 (including provision of $1,639 related to the extraordinary
gain) is as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1997 1998
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current
Federal ......................... $ 1,692 $ 7,635 $ 3,306
State ........................... 324 828 1,093
Foreign ......................... 547 1,356 3,324
------- ------- -------
2,563 9,819 7,723
------- ------- -------
Deferred
Federal ......................... (5,694) 157 (176)
State ........................... (1,022) 28 (31)
Foreign ......................... (251) (530) (170)
------- ------- -------
(6,967) (345) (377)
------- ------- -------
Provision (benefit)for income taxes $(4,404) $ 9,474 $ 7,346
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
Differences between the provision (benefit) for income taxes and income taxes
at the statutory federal income tax rate based on U.S. pre-tax income for the
years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1997 1998
--------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT
-------- ----- -------- ----- -------- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Income tax provision (benefit) at
statutory federal rate ........... $ (4,780) (34.0)% $ 11,222 35.0% $ 6,017 35.0%
State and local income taxes, net of
federal income tax effect ........ 563 4.0 1,924 6.0 1,031 6.0
Non-deductible interest expense .... 1,542 11.0 175 .5 -- --
Research and development credit .... (374) (2.7) (1,669) (5.2) (1,024) (6.0)
Income tax on extraordinary gain ... -- -- -- -- 1,639 9.5
Foreign taxes at rates different
than domestic rates, other ......... (1,892) (13.4) (1,216) (3.8) (317) (1.8)
Change in valuation reserve ........ 537 3.8 (962) (3.0) -- --
-------- ----- -------- ----- -------- ----
$ (4,404) (31.3)% $ 9,474 29.5% $ 7,346 42.7%
======== ===== ======== ===== ======== ====
</TABLE>
In 1995, NBase Ltd. qualified for a program under which it will be eligible
for a tax exemption on its income for a period of ten years from the beginning
of the benefits period. This benefit is due to expire in 2006. NBase Ltd.
received a tax benefit of approximately $1,600,000 in 1998.
The Company does not provide U.S. federal income taxes on the undistributed
earnings of its foreign operations. The Company's policy is to leave the income
permanently invested in the country of origin. Such amounts will only be
distributed to the United States to the extent any federal income tax can be
fully offset by foreign tax credits.
F-17
<PAGE> 56
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Lease Commitments
The Company leases its primary facilities in Chatsworth, California from
unaffiliated third parties at an annual combined base rent of approximately
$425,000 with lease terms expiring through 2002. The Company also leases office
and warehouse space in Boston, Israel, England, Switzerland, Germany, Sweden and
Italy at a combined annual base rent of approximately $2,375,000, with lease
terms expiring from 1999 through 2006.
The Company leases all of its facilities and certain equipment under
noncancelable capital and operating leases. Minimum future obligations under
such agreements at December 31, 1998 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CAPITAL OPERATING
LEASES LEASES
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
1999 ..................... $ 202 $ 2,724
2000 ..................... 284 2,385
2001 ..................... 258 2,235
2002 ..................... 251 1,874
2003 ..................... 250 1,492
Thereafter ............... 625 354
-------- --------
1,870 $ 11,064
========
Less -- Amount
representing interest .... (285)
--------
1,585
Less -- Current portion .. (185)
--------
$ 1,400
========
</TABLE>
Rent expense under noncancelable operating lease agreements for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998 was $684,000, $706,000, and $2,759,000,
respectively.
Royalty Commitment
As part of the purchase agreements of the Israeli companies referred to in
Note 3, the selling companies' commitments to pay royalties to the State of
Israel were assigned to the Company. The commitments arose as a consequence of
the participation of the Israeli Government in product development through the
payment of grants.
The royalties are payable at a rate of between 1.5 percent and 5.0 percent of
the sales proceeds of the products developed up to 150 percent of the amount of
the grants received. $276,000 was provided for in 1998 for royalties to be paid
under these agreements.
Accounts Receivable
The Company (through foreign subsidiaries) has agreements with several
financial institutions to sell its receivables with recourse; in the event of
customer's default, the Company must repurchase the receivables. At December 31,
1998 the Company is contingently liable in the amount of $16,041,000 relating to
such receivables sold with recourse. The Company believes that adequate
provision has been made for losses on receivables with recourse.
Litigation
In December, 1996, Datapoint brought an action against Nbase Communications,
Inc., a subsidiary of the Company ("Nbase") and several other defendants in the
United States District Court, for the Eastern District of New York alleging
infringement of two of Datapoint's patents related to LANs, more particularly to
claimed improved LANs which interoperatively combine additional enhanced
capability and/or which provide multiple different operational capabilities. In
the same lawsuit, Datapoint alleges that other defendants including Dayna
Communications, Inc. Sun Microsystems, Inc., Adaptec, Inc., International
Business Machines Corporation, Lantronix and SVEC America Computer Corporation
have infringed the same two patents. The Company has been advised that several
other companies, including Intel Corporation and Cisco Systems, Inc. have also
had actions brought against them by Datapoint with respect to the same two
patents. The action against Nbase and its codefendants seeks, among other
things, an injunction against the manufacture or sale of products which embody
the inventions set forth in the two patents and single and treble damages for
the alleged infringement. Datapoint's complaint also seeks to have the court
determine that the named defendants shall serve as representatives of a
defendant class of manufacturers, vendors and users of products allegedly
infringing on Datapoint's claimed patents from which defendant class Datapoint
seeks the same relief as from the individual defendants. In February 1999, the
court entered judgement in favor of the defendants and Datapoint filed a notice
of appeal. The Company is cooperating with several of the defendants in pursuit
of common defenses and believes the claim is without merit. If a conclusion
unfavorable to the Company is reached, however, Datapoint's claim could
materially affect the business, operating results and financial condition of the
Company.
F-18
<PAGE> 57
10. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
The Company's stock option plans (a 1992 and 1997 Plan) provide for the
granting of options to purchase up to 2,950,000 shares of common stock,
consisting of both incentive stock options and non-qualified options. Incentive
stock options are issuable only to employees of the Company. Non-qualified stock
options may be issued to non-employee directors, consultants and others, as well
as to employees. The exercise price of all stock options granted under the Plans
have been at least equal to the fair market value of such shares on the date of
grant. The options generally vest over three years and expire ten years from the
grant date.
The Company has two other outstanding option and warrant programs: (1) its
1998 Non-statutory Stock Option Plan provides for the granting of options to
purchase up to 1,421,500 shares of common stock to non-employees who perform
consulting or advisory services, as well as to employees of the Company. The
exercise price of all stock options granted must be at least equal to the fair
market value of the common stock on the date of grant. The options vest over a
two year period and expire five years from the grant date, and (2) its German
Employees Warrant Program which provides for the granting of warrants to
purchase up to 100,000 shares of common stock to employees of its German
subsidiary, at fair market value. The warrants vest over a five year period and
expire six years from the grant date. Directors and officers of the Company are
not eligible to participate in either of these plans.
The Company accounts for these plans under APB Opinion No. 25, under which
no compensation cost has been recognized. Had compensation cost for these plans
and the warrants (see Note 6) been determined consistent with SFAS 123, the
Company's net (loss) income and (loss) income per diluted common share amounts
would have been reduced to the following pro forma (amounts are in thousands,
except per share data):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1997 1998
------- -------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Income (Loss): As Reported................ $(9,654) $22,585 $(20,106)
Pro Forma.................. (11,254) $20,943 (21,317)
Income (Loss) Per Common
Share:
Basic: As Reported................ $ (0.49) $ 0.95 $ (0.76)
Pro Forma.................. (0.57) $ 0.88 (0.80)
Diluted: As Reported................ $ (0.49) $ 0.88 $ (0.76)
Pro Forma.................. (0.57) $ 0.81 (0.80)
</TABLE>
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using
the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions used for grants in 1996, 1997 and 1998: risk-free interest rates of
5.5 percent to 6.6 percent; no expected dividend yield; expected lives of 4 to 6
years; expected volatility of 22 percent to 65 percent.
A summary of the status of the Company's outstanding stock options at
December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998 and changes during the years then ended is
presented in the table below (shares are in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1997 1998
------------------- ------------------- -------------------
WTD. AVG. WTD. AVG. WTD. AVG.
SHARES EX.PRICE SHARES EX.PRICE SHARES EX.PRICE
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding at beginning
of year .................. 1,156 $ 3.59 1,475 $ 6.02 1,208 $ 8.77
Granted .................. 672 12.45 110 19.45 1,000 18.47
Exercised ................ (312) 3.28 (372) 4.86 (118) 4.51
Forfeited ................ (312) 3.28 (372) 4.86 (49) 11.09
Cancelled in repricing ... -- -- -- -- 1,498 17.86
Granted in repricing ..... -- -- -- -- 1,498 5.25
Outstanding at end of year 1,475 $ 6.02 1,208 $ 8.77 2,041 $ 4.98
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Exercisable at end of year 172 $ 3.05 548 5.31 516 3.73
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Weighted average fair
value of options granted . $ 4.28 $ 5.89 $ 6.21
------ ------ ------
</TABLE>
F-19
<PAGE> 58
11. SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The Company designs, manufactures and sells computer networking products and
fiber optic components and modules. Each of these is a business segment with its
respective financial performance detailed in this report.
Computer networking consists of Ethernet LAN routing switches and WAN and
remote access devices. These products are sold to end user customers,
distributors and value added resellers.
Fiber optic components and modules include discrete components such as lazer
diodes and light emitting diodes and integrated components such as transmitters,
receivers and transceivers. These products are sold primarily to
original-equipment manufactures and through distributors.
BUSINESS SEGMENT NET REVENUES (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Computer Networking $ 61,614 $125,968 $215,230
Fiber Optic Components and Modules 27,201 39,503 48,845
-------- -------- --------
Total revenues $ 88,815 $165,471 $264,075
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
Intersegment Sales from Fiber Optic Components and Modules to Computer
Networking were $2,984,000, $4,561,000 and $6,152,000 in 1996, 1997 and 1998,
respectively.
BUSINESS SEGMENT PROFIT (LOSS) (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-----------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Operating income (loss):
Computer Networking $ (14,286) $ 23,070 $ (23,739)
Fiber Optic Components and Modules 4,628 7,234 3,555
Other income (expense):
Interest expense related to convertible
debentures and acquisition (4,357) (843) --
Interest expense related to convertible
Notes -- -- (2,480)
Interest income 702 2,841 4,661
Interest expense (743) (118) (700)
Other (2) (125) 1,513
Extraordinary item, gross -- -- 4,430
--------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) before taxes and
other comprehensive income (loss) $ (14,058) $ 32,059 $ (12,760)
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
F-20
<PAGE> 59
BUSINESS SEGMENT ASSETS (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------- -------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Computer Networking $56,856 $113,638 $170,758
Fiber Optic Components and Modules 13,075 17,229 16,871
Other 27,012 105,369 132,563
------- -------- --------
Total $96,943 $236,236 $320,192
======= ======== ========
</TABLE>
BUSINESS SEGMENT ASSETS (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Depreciation
Computer Networking $ 722 $ 928 $ 3,994
Fiber Optic Components and Modules 209 225 443
------- ------- -------
Total $ 931 $ 1,153 $ 4,437
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Additions
Computer Networking $ 1,997 $ 623 $ 5,481
Fiber Optic Components and Modules 596 584 856
------- ------- -------
Total $ 2,593 $ 1,207 $ 6,337
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
GEOGRAPHIC AREA NET TRADE REVENUE (attributed to regions based on location of
customer), (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
------------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
United States $ 41,712 $ 66,562 $107,376
European Community 34,256 68,719 118,881
Middle East 4,593 5,178 5,634
Pacific Rim 6,401 21,607 24,892
All Other Areas 1,853 3,405 7,292
-------- -------- --------
Total $ 88,815 $165,471 $264,075
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
F-21
<PAGE> 60
GEOGRAPHIC AREA PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
---------------------------------
1996 1997 1998
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
United States $ 2,047 $ 2,437 $11,035
European Community 2,093 3,869 5,930
Middle East 2,108 1,877 2,392
------- ------- -------
Total $ 6,248 $ 8,183 $19,357
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE OTHER INCOME
(EXPENSE), PROVISION (BENEFIT) FOR INCOME TAXES AND EXTRAORDINARY ITEM
(in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
--------------------------------------
U. S. Non-U.S. Total
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1996 $ 2,524 $(12,182) $ (9,658)
1997 $ 21,915 $ 8,389 $ 30,304
1998 $(28,280) $ 8,096 $(20,184)
</TABLE>
No customer accounted for more than ten percent of revenues in 1996, 1997 or
1998.
12. 401(k) PLANS
In February 1997, the Company established a 401(k) savings plan (the Plan)
under which all eligible employees may participate. The Plan calls for the
Company to make matching contributions to all eligible employees. In 1997 and
1998, approximately $34,000 and $60,000, respectively was charged to operations
related to this plan.
Xyplex also sponsors a 401(k) plan covering a majority of its domestic
employees. The Plan includes a matching contribution. From the date of the
acquisition through December 31, 1998, the Company charged $194,000 to
operations related to this plan.
F-22
<PAGE> 61
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The current executive officers and directors of the Company are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AGE POSITION
---- --- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan(1) 48 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Shlomo Margalit(1) 58 Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Technical Officer
and Secretary
Zeev Rav-Noy(1) 51 Chief Operating Officer, Treasurer and Director
Edmund Glazer 39 Vice President of Finance and Administration and Chief
Financial Officer
Khalid (Ken) Ahmad 47 Vice President of Marketing and Sales
Ofer Iny 32 Vice President of Engineering
Igal Shidlovsky(2)(3) 63 Director
Guenter Jaensch(2)(3) 60 Director
</TABLE>
(1) Member of the Executive Committee.
(2) Member of the Compensation Committee.
(3) Member of the Audit Committee.
Noam Lotan has been the President, Chief Executive Officer and a
Director of the Company since May 1990 and became Chief Financial Officer of the
Company in October 1993, in which position he served until June 1995. From March
1987 to January 1990, Mr. Lotan served as Managing Director of Fibronics (UK)
Ltd., the United Kingdom subsidiary of Fibronics International Inc.
("Fibronics"), a manufacturer of fiber optic communication networks. The Company
purchased the Fibronics Business in September 1996. From January 1985 to March
1987, Mr. Lotan served as a Director of European Operations for Fibronics. Prior
to such time, Mr. Lotan held a variety of sales and marketing positions with
Fibronics and Hewlett-Packard. Mr. Lotan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in
Electrical Engineering from the Technion, the Israel Institute of Technology,
and a Masters degree in Business Administration from INSEAD (the European
Institute of Business Administration, Fontainebleau, France).
Dr. Shlomo Margalit, a co-founder of the Company, has been Chairman of
the Board of Directors and Chief Technical Officer since the Company's inception
in July 1988. From May 1985 to July 1988, Dr. Margalit served as a founder and
Vice President of Research and Development for LaserCom, Inc. ("LaserCom"), a
manufacturer of semiconductor lasers. From 1982 to 1985, Dr. Margalit served as
a Senior Research Associate at the California Institute of Technology
("Caltech"), and from 1976 to 1982, a Visiting Associate at Caltech. From 1972
to 1982, Dr. Margalit served as a faculty member and Associate Professor at the
Technion. During his tenure at the Technion, Dr. Margalit was awarded the
"Israel Defense" prize for his work in developing infrared detectors for heat
guided missiles and the David Ben Aharon Award for Novel Applied Research. Dr.
Margalit holds a Bachelor of Science degree, a Masters degree and a Ph.D. in
Electrical Engineering from the Technion.
Dr. Zeev Rav-Noy, a co-founder of the Company, has been its Chief
Operating Officer and a Director of the Company since inception and served as
its President until May 1990. From May 1985 to July 1988, Dr. Rav-Noy co-founded
and served as Vice President of Operations of LaserCom and, from 1982 to 1985,
served as a research fellow at Caltech. From 1979 to 1982, Dr. Rav-Noy served as
a consultant to a number of companies, including Tadiran Electronic Industries,
Inc., an Israeli telecommunication, military, and consumer electronics
conglomerate, and the Yeda Research and Development Co. Ltd., a technology
exploitation and application company affiliated with the Weizman Institute in
Israel. Dr. Rav-Noy holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Masters degree in
physics from Tel Aviv University and a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from
39
<PAGE> 62
the Weizman Institute in Israel. Edmund Glazer was appointed Vice President of
Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer in June 1995. He has been
with the Company since October 1994 serving as Operations Manager. In 1993 and
1994, Mr. Glazer served as a consultant providing document imaging and
information systems to clients. From 1986 to 1993, Mr. Glazer served as Vice
President of Finance at Concord Electrical Supply, a distributor of electrical
and electronic products. From 1984 to 1986, Mr. Glazer worked as a certified
public accountant at the accounting firm of Singer, Lewak Greenbaum & Goldstein.
From 1981 to 1984, Mr. Glazer worked as an auditor at the accounting firm of
Weber, Lipshie & Co. In 1983, Mr. Glazer qualified as a Certified Public
Accountant from the State of California. Mr. Glazer holds a Bachelor of Science
Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California.
Khalid (Ken) Ahmad has been employed as Vice President of Marketing and
Sales since July 1990 and an Executive Officer since May 1992. From April 1990
to July 1990, Mr. Ahmad served as a consultant to the Company. From January 1990
to March 1990, Mr. Ahmad served as a consultant to Welwyn Microcircuits, a
British manufacturer, providing market research information on fiber optic
technology. From October 1988 to November 1989, Mr. Ahmad served as marketing
manager and regional sales manager for STC Components, a manufacturer of optical
transmission components. From 1985 to 1988, he served as marketing operations
manager for PCO, Inc. a manufacturer of optical transmission devices and data
links. From 1977 to 1985, Mr. Ahmad also held a variety of marketing and sales
management positions with Canoga Data Systems, a data communications equipment
manufacturer, and Deutsch Company, an aerospace manufacturer. Mr. Ahmad holds a
Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from California State University at San
Bernardino.
Ofer Iny has been Vice President of Engineering of the Company since May
1994. From January 1993 to May 1994, he served as a consultant to the Company.
From September 1991 to January 1993, Mr. Iny was a researcher at Jet Propulsion
Laboratory, Microgravity and Microwave Group. From May 1990 to March 1992, Mr.
Iny held the position of Senior Engineer at Whittaker Electronic Systems, a
manufacturer. Mr. Iny holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from
California State University, Northridge, and a Masters degree in Physics from
University of California, Los Angeles ("UCLA").
Dr. Igal Shidlovsky became a Director of the Company in May 1997. Dr.
Shidlovsky serves as Managing Director of Global Technologies, an investment and
consulting organization, which he founded in 1994. He has extensive management
and consulting experience with international companies and start up technology
companies. Dr. Shidlovsky is a Director of the Omega Point Foundation. From 1982
to 1991, Dr. Shidlovsky was a Director of Sentex Sensing Technologies. Dr.
Shidlovsky held several executive positions including Vice President Corporate
Development at Siemens Pacesetter, a division of Siemens AG Medical Group,
Director of Strategic Planning and Technology Utilization, and Director of the
Microelectronics Department at Siemens Corporate Research. From 1969 to 1982 he
was with RCA Laboratories, a leading electronic R&D organization. Dr. Shidlovsky
holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the Technion and Master and
Ph.D. degrees from the Hebrew University in Israel.
Dr. Guenter Jaensch became a Director of the Company in December 1997,
agreeing to serve after Mr. Eddie Kawamura, who had been elected a Director at
the Company's annual meeting of shareholders, became too ill to serve. Dr.
Jaensch serves as Managing Director of The McKenzie Companies, Inc. and McKenzie
Ventures LTD. and as President of Jaensch Enterprises, each firm engaged in
management consulting, mergers and acquisitions and investments. For over 20
years, Dr. Jaensch held several executive positions with Siemens or its
subsidiaries. Among his executive positions in the United States were service as
President of Siemens Communications Systems, Inc.; Chairman of Siemens Corporate
Research and Support, Inc.; Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Pacesetter;
and head of the cardiac management division of Siemens AG Medical Group. Dr.
Jaensch also served as controller of Siemens Data Processing Group and Director
of Siemens Internal Accounting and Budgeting operations. Dr. Jaensch holds a
Master degree in Business Administration and Ph.D. degree in Finance from the
University of Frankfurt. He also served as an Associate Professor at the
University of Frankfurt prior to joining Siemens.
40
<PAGE> 63
Each director is elected for a period of one year at the Company's
annual meeting of stockholders and serves until the next annual meeting and
until his successor is duly elected and qualified. Officers are elected by, and
serve at the discretion of, the Board of Directors, subject to relevant
employment agreements. None of the Directors of the Company are related by
blood, marriage or adoption to any of the Company's Directors or executive
officers.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires the
Company's directors and executive officers and persons who own more than 10% of
a registered class of the Company's equity securities, to file with the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") initial reports of ownership and
reports of changes in ownership of Common Stock and other equity securities of
the Company. Directors, executive officers and 10% or greater shareholders are
required by the SEC regulations to furnish the Company with copies of all
Section 16(a) forms they file.
The Company believes, based solely on a review of the copies of such
reports furnished to the Company, that each report required of the Company's
executive officers, directors and 10% or greater shareholders was duly and
timely filed during the year ended December 31, 1997.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth a summary of all compensation paid by the
Company to its Chief Executive Officer and for the four other highest paid
executive officers whose total annual salary and bonus exceeded $100,000 (the
"Named Executive Officers") during the year ended December 31, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG-TERM
ANNUAL COMPENSATION COMPENSATION
-------------------------- ------------
SECURITIES
UNDERLYING
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITIONS YEAR SALARY BONUS OPTIONS (#)
- --------------------------------------------- ---- -------- ------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan 1998 $100,000 $ 0 30,000(1)
President and Chief Executive Officer 1997 $100,000 $ 0 0
1996 $100,000 $ 0 30,000
Shlomo Margalit 1998 $110,000 $ 0 0
Chairman of the Board of Directors, 1997 $110,000 $ 0 0
Chief Technical Officer and Secretary 1996 $110,000 $ 0 0
Zeev Rav-Noy 1998 $110,000 $60,000 0
Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer 1997 $110,000 $60,000 0
1996 $110,000 $60,000 0
Ken Ahmad 1998 $ 90,000 $89,000 0
Vice President of Marketing and Sales 1997 $ 90,000 $45,000 0
1996 $ 90,000 $57,170 0
Edmund Glazer 1998 $107,000 $ 0 89,000(1)(2)
Vice President of Finance and Administration 1997 $ 71,000 $ 0 15,000
and Chief Financial Officer 1996 $ 56,000 $ 0 24,000
</TABLE>
41
<PAGE> 64
- --------------------
(1) Consists of repriced options granted under the Company's Stock Option Plans
that were issued in replacement of all earlier options granted to the Named
Executive Officers under the Stock Option Plans. The Options vest at their
original vesting schedules except that no options (including vested
options) were exercisable earlier than nine months from the date of the
grant of the repriced options.
(2) Excludes options to purchase 50,000 shares of Common Stock granted in
January 1998 that were replaced with an equivalent number of repriced
options granted later in the year.
Neither Drs. Margalit nor Rav-Noy were granted any stock options during
1998. The following table provides certain information regarding stock option
grants made to the other Named Executive Officers during 1998.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POTENTIAL REALIZABLE
PERCENT OF VALUE AT ASSUMED
NUMBER OF TOTAL ANNUAL RATES OF STOCK
SECURITIES OPTIONS PRICE APPRECIATION
UNDERLYING GRANTED TO EXERCISE FOR OPTION TERM(1)
OPTIONS EMPLOYEES PRICE EXPIRATION ---------------------
NAME GRANTED(#)(2) 1998(2) ($/SH) DATE %5 10%
---- ------------- --------- ------- ---------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan 30,000 1.2% 5.25 7/7/2000 $171,243 $184,987
Edmund Glazer 9,000 1/9/2002 $54,939 $62,629
15,000 3.5% 5.25 7/15/2002 $93,583 $108,416
15,000 3/18/2003 $96,237 $113,724
50,000 1/9/2004 $331,469 $400,438
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) The dollar amounts under these columns are the result of calculations
assuming the price of Common Stock on the date of the grant of the option
($5.25) increases at the hypothetical 5% and 10% rates set by the
Securities and Exchange Commission for the term of the option. Neither the
amounts reflected nor the rates applied are intended to forecast possible
future appreciation, if any, of the Company's stock price.
(2) Consists of repriced options granted under the Company's Stock Option Plans
that were issued in replacement of all earlier options granted to the Named
Executive Officers under the Stock Option Plans. The Options vest at their
original vesting schedules except that no options (including vested
options) were exercisable earlier than nine months from the date of the
grant of the repriced options.
(3) The exercise price per share of the options granted represented the fair
market value of the underlying shares on the date of grant of the repriced
options.
FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
Neither Drs. Margalit nor Rav-Noy or any of the other Named Executive
Officers exercised any stock options during 1998. nor held any stock options at
December 31, 1998. The following table provides certain information concerning
stock options held by the other Named Executive Officers at December 31, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Shares Underlying Value of Unexercised
Unexercised Options at In-the-Money Options at
December 31, 1998 December 31, 1998(1)
-------------------------- --------------------------
Name Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
---- ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan 0 30,000 0 $28,125
Edmund Glazer 0 89,000 0 $83,438
</TABLE>
- ----------
(1) Based on the difference between $6.1875 per share (the closing price per
share of Common Stock on December 31, 1998 as reported on The Nasdaq
National Market) and the per share exercise price.
Report on Repricing of Stock Options
42
<PAGE> 65
In October 1998, the board of directors authorized the reduction of the
exercise price of outstanding options (other than outstanding options having an
exercise price lower than then market price) granted to employees, including
executive officers, and directors, pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plans.
The only Named Executive Officers affected were Noam Lotan and Edmund Glazer.
The Company accomplished this repricing (the "Repricing") by an exchanging each
option held by an optionee at the time of the Repricing (the "Surrendered
Options") for an option with a lower exercise price (the "Repriced Options").
The board concluded that the Repricing would effectively serve the board's
intended purpose and the purposes of the stock option plan to promote the growth
and general prosperity of the Company and to help the Company attract it and
retain the best available persons for positions of substantial responsibility
and provide key employees with an additional incentive to contribute to the
success of the Company. In making this conclusion, the board took into account
the following factors, among others:
- The services rendered or to be rendered by the optionees bore a
reasonable relationship to the compensation awarded to such employees;
- The Repricing was necessary in order to retain employees, particularly
in light of competitive pressures for the Company's remaining employees;
- No greater dilution would be caused by the Repricing;
- Substantial premiums would have to be paid to new key employees or
executives in order to replace key personnel who could not be retained without
the Repricing; and
- That without the Repricing competitors' compensation programs would be
substantially more generous than the Company's and more likely to lure talented
personnel.
Even though the board felt that the above factors, among others,
justified repricing, the board believed it would be appropriate to delay the
vesting of the Repriced Options for some period of time so that the Company
would receive new and valuable consideration from the optionee in return for the
Repricing. In the case of Repriced Options to members of the board, the board
noted that the Repricing appeared appropriate for many of the same factors
considered by the board in the case of employees. Accordingly, while the
Repriced Options had a lower exercise price than the Surrendered Options, the
board determined that all Repriced Options were granted subject to a new vesting
period beginning on the date of Repricing. Generally, the vesting schedule of
the Repriced Options continued the vesting scheduled of the Surrendered Options
with respect to unvested shares (except for unvested shares that were to vest
within nine months of the date of grant of the Repriced Options, which were
extended until nine months of the date of grant of the Repriced Options). Shares
of the Surrendered Options that had vested as of the Repricing, became unvested
in the Repriced Options until one year of the date of grant of the Repriced
Options.
/s/ Igal Shidlovsky
Igal Shidlovsky
/s/ Guenter Jaensch
Guenter Jaensch
Members of the Compensation Committee
43
<PAGE> 66
The following table provides certain information regarding all
repricings of stock options held by any executive officer undertaking by the
Company since January 1, 1989:
TEN-YEAR OPTION/SAR REPRICINGS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Length of
Securities original
underlying Market price Exercise option term
number of of stock price remaining at
options/SARs at time of at time of New at date of
repriced or repricing or repricing or exercise repricing or
Name Date amended(#) amendment($) amendment($) price amendment
---- ---- ----------- ------------ ------------ --------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Noam Lotan, President and 10/8/98 30,000 $5.25 $8.42 $5.25 1/9/2000
Chief Executive Officer
Edmund Glazer, Vice 10/8/98 9,000 $5.25 $8.42 $5.25 1/9/2002
President of Finance and 15,000 $12.00 7/15/2002
Administration and 15,000 $18.25 3/18/2003
Chief Financial Officer 50,000 $20.25 1/9/2004
Ofer Iny, Vice President of 10/8/98 15,000 $5.25 $8.42 $5.25 1/9/2002
Engineering 80,000 $14.75 4/7/2002
60,000 $20.25 1/9/2004
</TABLE>
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
In March 1992, the Company entered into three-year employment agreements
with Mr. Lotan, Dr. Margalit and Dr. Rav-Noy. Upon expiration, these agreements
automatically renew for one year terms unless either party terminates them by
giving the other three months' notice of non-renewal prior to the expiration of
the current term. Pursuant to the agreements, Mr. Lotan serves as President,
Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Company, Dr. Margalit serves as
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Technical Officer and Secretary, and
Dr. Rav-Noy serves as a Chief Operating Officer, Treasurer and a Director. Mr.
Lotan, Dr. Margalit and Dr. Rav-Noy receive base annual salaries of $100,000,
$110,000 and $110,000, respectively, and each is entitled to receive a bonus
determined and payable at the discretion of the Board of Directors upon the
recommendation of the Compensation Committee of the Board. Recommendations with
respect to bonus levels are based on achievement of specified goals, such as new
product introductions, profitability levels, revenue goals, market expansion and
other criteria as established by the Compensation Committee.
Each officer also receives employee benefits, such as vacation, sick pay
and insurance, in accordance with the Company's policies which are applicable to
all employees. The Company has obtained, and is the beneficiary of, key man life
insurance policies in the amount of $1,000,000 on the lives of each of Drs.
Margalit and Rav-Noy and Mr. Lotan. All benefits under these policies will be
payable to the Company upon the death of an insured.
44
<PAGE> 67
COMPENSATION OF OUTSIDE DIRECTORS
Outside directors, i.e., directors who are not employees of the Company,
receive cash compensation of $800 per month and $500 for each Board of
Directors' meeting attended, while serving as Directors. All Outside Directors
received Repriced Options in exchange for options granted to them before the
Repricing on the same terms as were provided to all other optionees in the
Repricing. The following table provides information concerning the repriced
options granted to the Outside Directors:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Securities
underlying
number of
Date of options Exercise Expiration
Name Grant repriced(#) price($) Date
---- ------- ---------- -------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Igal Shidlovsky 10/8/98 15,000 $5.25 4/21/2003
65,000 1/9/2004
Guenter Jaensch 10/8/98 65,000 $5.25 1/9/2004
</TABLE>
STOCK OPTION PLANS
1992 Plan. On March 27, 1992, the Board of Directors and stockholders of
the Company adopted the 1992 Stock Option Plan (the "1992 Plan"), which provides
for the grant to employees, officers, directors and consultants of options to
purchase up to 900,000 shares of Common Stock, consisting of both "incentive
stock options" within the meaning of Section 422 of the United States Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and non-qualified options.
Incentive stock options are issuable only to employees of the Company, while
non-qualified options may be issued to non-employee directors, consultants and
others, as well as to employees of the Company. The Board increased the 1992
Plan by 900,000 shares in February 1995, which was approved by stockholders in
June 1995 and in May 1996 increased the 1992 Plan by 150,000 shares, which was
approved by stockholders in July 1996.
Under the 1992 Plan, the Compensation Committee has the authority to
determine the persons to whom options will be granted, the number of shares to
be covered by each option, whether the options granted are intended to be
incentive stock options, the duration and rate of exercise of each option, the
option price per share, the manner of exercise and the time, manner and form of
payment upon exercise of an option.
The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject to incentive stock
options may not be less than the fair market value of the Common Stock on the
date the option is granted. The exercise price per share of Common Stock subject
to non-qualified options will be established by the Board of Directors. The
aggregate fair market value (determined as of the date the option is granted) of
the Common Stock that any employee may purchase in any calendar year pursuant to
the exercise of incentive stock options may not exceed $100,000. No person who
owns, directly or indirectly, at the time of the granting of an incentive stock
option to him, more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes
of stock of the Company shall be eligible to receive any incentive stock options
under the 1992 Plan unless the exercise price is at least 110% of grant.
Nonqualified options are not subject to this limitation.
No incentive stock option may be transferred by an optionee other than
by will or the laws of descent and distribution and, during the lifetime of an
optionee, the option will be exercisable only by the optionee. In the event of
termination of employment other than by death or disability, the optionee will
have three months after such termination or until the expiration of such option,
whichever occurs first, to exercise the option. Upon termination of employment
of an optionee by reason of death or permanent total disability, options remain
exercisable for one year thereafter or until
45
<PAGE> 68
the expiration of such option, whichever occurs first, to the extent they were
exercisable on the date of such termination. No similar limitation applies to
non-qualified options.
Stock options under the 1992 Plan must be granted within 10 years from
the effective date of the 1992 Plan. Incentive stock options granted under the
1992 Plan cannot be exercised more than 10 years from the date of grant, except
that incentive stock options issued to 10% or greater stockholders are limited
to five year terms. All options granted under the 1992 Plan provide for the
payment of the exercise price in cash or by delivery to the Company of shares of
Common Stock already owned by the optionee having a fair market value equal to
the exercise price of the options being exercised, or by a combination of such
methods of payment. Therefore, an optionee may be able to tender shares of
Common Stock to purchase additional shares of Common Stock and may theoretically
exercise all of his stock options without making any additional cash investment.
Any unexercised options that expire or that terminate upon an employee's
ceasing to be employed with the Company become available once again for
issuance. At December 31 1998, options for 828,120 shares were outstanding under
the 1992 Plan and 30,700 were reserved thereunder for options available for
future grant.
1997 Plan. On November 11, 1997 and December 12, 1997, respectively, the
Board of Directors and stockholders of the Company adopted the 1997 Incentive
and Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan (the "1997 Plan"), which provides for the
grant of options to purchase up to 500,000 shares of Common Stock. On October
30, 1998 stockholders approved the board's proposal to increase by 500,000
shares the number of shares of Company Stock that may be optioned and sold under
the 1997 Plan. The Company's 1997 Plan provides for the granting of (i)
incentive stock options to key employees and (ii) nonstatutory stock options to
key employees and non-employee directors of the Company and any person who
performs consulting or advisory services for the Company and who is, by the
Board of Directors or the Stock Option Committee, determined to be eligible to
participate. For information concerning the federal income tax distinctions of
incentive and nonstatutory stock options, see "Federal Income Tax Consequences
of Incentive Stock Options and Nonstatutory Stock Options," below.
The maximum number of shares of the Company's Common Stock that may be
issued pursuant to the exercise of options granted under the 1997 Plan is
1,000,000 shares (subject to adjustment in the event of stock dividends, splits,
reverse splits, recapitalizations, mergers or other similar changes in the
Company's capital structure). No more than 1,000,000 shares may be optioned and
sold to directors or non-director officers under the Stock Option Plan as
amended. All options must be granted, if at all, not later than November 10,
2007. The aggregate fair market value (determined as of the date the option is
granted) of the shares of Common Stock to which incentive stock options granted
under the Stock Option Plan are exercisable for the first time by any employee
of the Company during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. This limitation
does not apply with respect to nonstatutory stock options.
The 1997 Plan is to be administered by the full Board of Directors,
which will determine the terms of options granted, including the exercise price,
the number of shares subject to the option and the terms and conditions of
exercise. No option granted under the 1997 Plan is transferable by the optionee
other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution and each option is
exercisable during the lifetime of the optionee only by such optionee. Incentive
stock options and nonstatutory stock options may be and typically are granted
for exercise for up to ten years from the date granted and typically vest in
equal installments over three years from the date of grant.
Options granted under the 1997 Plan are evidenced by written agreements
specifying the number of shares covered thereby and the option price, the
exercise period and all other terms, restrictions and conditions of the option.
The exercise price of all stock options granted under the 1997 Plan must be at
least equal to the fair market value of such shares on the date of grant. With
respect to any optionee who owns stock possessing more than 10% of the voting
rights of the Company's outstanding capital stock, the exercise price of any
stock option must be not less than 110% of the fair market value on the date of
grant.
46
<PAGE> 69
Options must be exercised only by written notice from the optionee (or
his estate or other legal representative) to the Company accompanied by payment
of the option price in full. The option price may be paid in cash, cash
equivalents (certified or cashier's check), or with shares of Common Stock of
the Company.
As of December 31, 1998, options to purchase an aggregate of 1,000,000
shares of Common Stock were outstanding, no options granted under the 1997 Plan
had been exercised and none were available for future grant.
Other Option Plans. The Company also has two other outstanding option
programs: (1) its 1998 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan, under which the Company
may grant nonstatutory stock options to purchase up to 1,421,500 shares of
Common Stock to employees the Company and any person who performs consulting or
advisory services for the Company and who is, by the Board of Directors or the
Stock Option Committee, determined to be eligible to participate, and (2) its
German Employees Warrant Program under which the Company may grant warrants to
purchase up to 100,000 shares of Common Stock to employees of its German
subsidiaries. Directors and officers of the Company are not eligible to
participate in either of these plans. At December 31, 1998 options for 1,421,500
shares were outstanding under the 1998 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan and none
were reserved thereunder for options available for future grant. At December 31,
1998, warrants for 100,000 shares were outstanding under the German Employees
Warrant Program and none were reserved thereunder for warrants available for
future grant.
LIMITATION ON LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION MATTERS
The Company's Certificate of Incorporation includes a provision that
eliminates or limits the personal financial liability of the Company's
directors, except in situations where there has been a breach of the director's
duty of loyalty to the Company or its stockholders, acts or omissions not in
good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of
law, liability under Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
("Section 174") relative to unlawful payment of dividends, stock purchases or
redemptions, or any transaction from which the director derived an improper
personal benefit. Furthermore, Section 174 eliminates monetary liability for
gross negligence in exercising the duty of due care related to the directors'
fiduciary duties under state corporate law, however, such section does not
eliminate monetary liability of directors under the federal Securities laws. In
addition, the Company's Bylaws include provisions to indemnify its officers and
directors and other persons against expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid
in settlement in connection with threatened, pending or completed suits or
proceedings against such persons by reason of serving or having served as
officers, directors or in other capacities, except that in relation to matters
with respect to which such persons shall be determined to be liable for
misconduct or negligence in the performance of their duties, the Company's
Bylaws provide for indemnification only to the extent that the Company
determines that such person acted in good faith and in a manner not opposed to
the best interests of the Company. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities
arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers
or persons controlling the Company pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the
Company has been informed that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against the public policy as expressed in the
Act and is therefore unenforceable.
47
<PAGE> 70
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the
beneficial ownership of the Common Stock as of March 19, 1999, of (i) each
person known by the Company to own beneficially 5% or more of the Common Stock,
(ii) each current director of the Company owning Common Stock, (iii) each of the
Named Executive Officers owning Common Stock, and (iv) all current directors and
executive officers as a group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Shares
Name and Address(1) Beneficially Percentage of
of Beneficial Owner Owned(2) Class
------------------- ---------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Shlomo Margalit .................... 1,843,930 6.9%
Zeev Rav-Noy ....................... 1,713,915 6.4%
Noam Lotan ......................... 863,437 3.2%
Ken Ahmad (3) ...................... 313,464 1.2%
All Directors and Executive Officers
as a Group (8 persons) (3) ....... 4,734,746 17.7%
</TABLE>
- ----------
(1) Except as noted below, the address of each of the persons listed is c/o MRV
Communications, Inc., 8943 Fullbright Avenue, Chatsworth, CA 91311.
(2) Pursuant to the rules of the Commission, shares of Common Stock that an
individual or group has a right to acquire within 60 days pursuant to the
exercise of options or warrants are deemed to be outstanding for the
purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such individual or group,
but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the
percentage ownership of any other person shown in the table.
(3) Includes 150,000 shares issuable pursuant to stock options exercisable
within 60 days from March 19, 1999.
48
<PAGE> 71
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
In July 1998, the Company and New Access Communications, Inc. ("New
Access") entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement, under which the Company
purchased for $950,000 shares of the capital stock of New Access equal to
approximately 19% of the capital stock of New Access then outstanding and
warrants to purchase additional capital stock of New Access, which, if fully
exercised for an aggregate of $2,050,000, the Company would own an aggregate of
approximately 60% of New Access's capital stock (when the shares purchased upon
exercise of the warrants are added to the Company's existing stake in New
Access). The warrants are exercisable in two installments (provided the first
installment is exercised) by July 1, 1999 and January 4, 2000, respectively. New
Access is engaged in the development of new products based on wave division
multiplexing technology. Dr. Margalit is the Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of New Access and a principal shareholder of it. Dr. Near
Margalit is the son of Dr. Shlomo Margalit, a principal shareholder of the
Company and the Company's Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Technical
Officer.
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
(a) (1) The financial statements filed as a part of this Report consist of
the financial statements listed under Item 8.
(2) The financial statement schedules filed as a part of this Report
consist of the following:
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Report of Independent Public Accountants on Financial
Statement Schedule.
(3) The following exhibits are filed as part of this Report:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit No. Description
- ----------- -----------
<S> <C>
2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between MRV Technologies,
Inc. (a California corporation) and MRV Technologies, Inc. (a
Delaware corporation), as amended (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 2a filed as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (File No. 33-48003)).
2.2 Certificate of Merger by and between MRV Technologies, Inc. (a
California corporation) and MRV Technologies, Inc. (a Delaware
corporation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2b filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
3.1 Certificate of Incorporation, as amended (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3a filed as part of Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-48003)).
3.2 Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation filed
with the Delaware Secretary of State on March 20, 1996
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company's Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998 filed August 14, 1998).
3.3 Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation filed
with the Delaware Secretary of State on July 29, 1996
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 of the Company's Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998 filed August 14, 1998)
3.4 Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation filed
with the Delaware Secretary of State on November 19, 1998.
</TABLE>
49
<PAGE> 72
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
3.5 Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3b filed as part of
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
4.1 Specimen certificate of Common Stock (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.5 filed as part of Registrant's Registration Statement
on Form S-3 (File No. 333-64017).
4.2 Specimen of Restricted Global Security (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4.3 of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 998 filed August 14, 1998).
10.1 Form of Underwriter's Warrant issued to Hampshire Securities
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4f filed as part of
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(File No. 33-86516)).
10.2 Lease for premises at 8917 Fullbright Avenue, Chatsworth, CA dated
August 5, 1991 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10a filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.3 Lease for premises at 8943 Fullbright Avenue, Chatsworth, CA dated
March 3, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10a(1) filed
as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.4 Key Employee Agreement between the Company and Noam Lotan dated
March 23, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(1) filed
as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.5 Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company and
Noam Lotan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(1)1 filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.6 Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company and
Noam Lotan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(1)2 filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.7 Key Employee Agreement between the Company and Zeev Rav-Noy dated
march 23, 1992 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(2) filed
as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.8 Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company and
Zeev Rav-Noy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(2) filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.9 Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company and
Zeev Rav-Noy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(2) filed as
part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.10 Key Employee Agreement between the Company and Shlomo Margalit
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(3) filed as part of
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.11 Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company and
Shlomo Margalit (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(3)1
filed as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(File No. 33-48003)).
</TABLE>
50
<PAGE> 73
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
10.12 Form of Letter amending Key Employee Agreement between the Company
and Shlomo Margalit (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10b(3) 2 filed as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (File No. 33-48003)).
10.13 Employment Letter between the Company and Khalid (Ken) Ahmad dated
August 8, 1990 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b(4) filed
as part of Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File
No. 33-48003)).
10.14 Agreement for Purchase of Galcom Assets dated March 21, 1995
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 2.1 and 2.1a of
Registrant's Report on Form 8-K (0-23452) dated May 1, 1995, with
respect to the Galcom Acquisition).
10.15 MRV Communications Inc. Incentive Plan for Grant of Warrants to
Employees Subsidiaries (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No.
10.21 of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (0-23452) for the
year ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.16 Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 26, 1996 between the
Company, Elbit Ltd and certain of its Fibronics subsidiaries
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 2.1 of Registrant's
Report on Form 8-K (0-23452), dated October 9, 1996 with respect
to the Fibronics Acquisition).
10.17 First Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement dated March 13,
1997 between Elbit Ltd. and Registrant (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit No. 10.22.1 of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.18 Standard Industrial/Commercial Single-Tenant Lease dated October
8, 1996 between the Company and Nordhoff Development relating to
the premises located at 20415 Nordhoff Street, Chatsworth,
California (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.23 of
Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.19 Form of Debenture (aggregating $30,000,000 principal amount)issued
in private placement completed in September 1996 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit No. 10.24 of Registrant's Annual Report on
Form 10-K (0-23452) for the year ended December 31, 1996 filed
April 15, 1997).
10.20 Form of Warrants (aggregating 600,000) issued in private placement
completed in September 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
No. 10.25 of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (0-23452) for
the year ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.21 Form of Registration Rights Agreement entered into with investors
in private placement completed in September 1996 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit No. 10.26 of Registrant's Annual Report on
Form 10-K (0-23452) for the year ended December 31, 1996 filed
April 15, 1997).
10.22 Common Stock Purchase Agreement dated November 26, 1996 between
the Company and Intel Corporation (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit No. 10.27 of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K
(0-23452) for the year ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15,
1997).
10.23 Investor Agreement dated November 26, 1996 between the Company
and Intel Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
No. 10.28 of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (0-23452)
for the year ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.24 Warrant to Purchase 300,000 shares of Common Stock in favor of
Intel Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.29
of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (0-23452) for the year
ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
</TABLE>
51
<PAGE> 74
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
10.25 Warrant to Purchase 100,000 shares of Common Stock in favor of
Intel Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.29
of Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K (0-23452) for the year
ended December 31, 1996 filed April 15, 1997).
10.26 Stock Purchase Agreement dated January 19, 1998 by and between
Whittaker and Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No.
2.1(a) of Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed February 13, 1998
with respect to the Xyplex Acquisition).
10.27 Warrant Agreement dated January 30, 1998 by and between Whittaker
and Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 2.1(b) of
Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed February 13, 1998 with
respect to the Xyplex Acquisition).
10.28 Warrant Certificate No. Whittaker # 1 to purchase 421,402 shares
of Common Stock of Registrant issued to Whitaker on January 30,
1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 2.1(c) of
Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed February 13, 1998 with
respect to the Xyplex Acquisition).
10.29 American Industrial Real Estate Association, Standard
Industrial/Commercial Single-Tenant Lease - Net dated November 17,
1997 by and between Ruth G Fisher Living Trust U/D/T dated June 28
1990 and Registrant relating to the premises located at 8928
Fullbright Avenue, Chatsworth, California (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit No. 10.35 of Registrant's Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 1997 filed April 15, 1998).
10.30 New Lease dated February 22, 1993 by and between 495 Littleton
Associates and Xyplex, Inc. relating to the premises located at
295 Foster Street, Littleton, Mass, Amendments Nos. 1 through 4
thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.36 of
Registrant's Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
1997 filed April 15, 1998).
10.31 Fifth Amendment to Lease relating to the premises located at 295
Foster Street, Littleton, Mass. with attached Lease Guaranty of
Registrant.
10.32 Underwriting Agreement dated September 18, 1997 by and among
Registrant, the Selling Stockholders named on Schedule I thereto
and the Underwriters named on Schedule II thereto (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit No. 10.37 of Registrant's Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 1997 filed April 15, 1998).
10.33 Indenture, dated as of June 26, 1998, between the Company and
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to
the Company's 5% Convertible Subordinated Notes Due 2003 (the
"Notes") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the
Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998, filed
August 14, 1998).
10.34 Purchase Agreement, dated June 23, 1998, between the Company and
Prudential Securities Incorporated and Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
relating to the Notes (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of
the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998 filed
August 14, 1998).
10.35 Indenture, dated as of June 26, 1998, between the Company and
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to
the Notes (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the
Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998, filed
August 14, 1998).
10.36 Registration Rights Agreement dated June 26, 1998 between the
Company and Prudential Securities Incorporated and Bear, Stearns &
Co. Inc. relating to the shares of Common Stock issuable upon
conversion of the Notes (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4
of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998
filed August 14, 1998).
</TABLE>
52
<PAGE> 75
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
10.37 Underlease dated September 16, 1998 between Lowe Azure Limited,
NBase Europe Gmbh and the Company relating to property at Unit 16,
Campbell Court, Campbell Road, Bramley Basingstoke Hampshire,
England.
10.38 Standard Industrial/Commercial Single-Tenant Lease - Net dated
December 1, 1998 by and between Radar Investments, Inc. and
Registrant relating to the premises located at 8943 Fullbright
Avenue, Chatsworth, California.
21 Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
23 Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP to incorporation of Report on
Financial Statements into Company's Registration Statements on
Form S-8 (File No. 33- 96458), Form S-3 (File No. 333-17537) and
Form S-3 (File No.333-64017) .
25 Power of Attorney (contained on Signature Page).
</TABLE>
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
No reports on Form 8-K were filed by registrant during the last quarter
of the period covered by this Report.
53
<PAGE> 76
SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 (the "Exchange Act"), the Registrant caused this Report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Chatsworth,
State of California, on March 30, 1999
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ Noam Lotan
-----------------------------------
Noam Lotan, President and
Chief Executive Officer
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature
appears below constitutes an appoints Noam Lotan, Zeev Rav-Noy and Edmund
Glazer, and each of them, as his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents,
with full power of substitution for him in any and all capacities, to sign any
and all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K and to file the same, with
all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and
agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in connection therewith,
as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby
ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of
them, or their or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be
done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this Report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on
the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Names Title Date
----- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Noam Lotan President, Chief Executive Officer
- ------------------------------- (Principal Executive Officer), and a March 30, 1999
Noam Lotan Director
/s/ Zeev Rav-Noy Chief Operating Officer, March 30, 1999
- ------------------------------- Treasurer, and a Director
Zeev Rav-Noy
/s/ Shlomo Margalit Chairman of the Board, Chief March 30, 1999
- ------------------------------- Technical Officer, Secretary,
Shlomo Margalit and a Director
/s/ Edmund Glazer Vice President of Finance and March 30, 1999
- ------------------------------- Administration, Chief Financial
Edmund Glazer Officer (Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
/s/ Igal Shidlovsky Director March 30, 1999
- -------------------------------
Igal Shidlovsky
/s/ Guenter Jaensch Director
- ------------------------------- March 30, 1999
Guenter Jaensch
</TABLE>
54
<PAGE> 77
SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Balance at Charged to Charged to Balance
beginning costs and other at end of
Description of period expenses accounts Deductions period
- ----------- --------- -------- -------- ---------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Accounts receivable
reserve $ 4,252 $ 2,591 $ 2,647(3) $ 1,003(1) $ 8,487
Accrued restructuring $ -- 23,194 -- 23,112(2) 82
</TABLE>
- ------------------
(1) Uncollectible accounts receivable written off agains and mergers.
(2) Computed as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Termination benefits for 183 employees $6,721
Closure of facilities 1,190
Relocation of employees 154
Settlement of distribution agreements 5,033
Elimination of product lines 2,831
Reversal of accrual primarily related to
renegotiation of lease for principal facility in
Littleton, Massachusetts 6,748
Other 435
</TABLE>
(3) Addition to reserve booked as part of Xyplex acquisition.
<PAGE> 78
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
Our audit was made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic
financial statements taken as a whole. The Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying
Accounts, Schedule II, is presented for purposes of additional analysis and is
not a required part of the basic financial statements. This information has been
subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our audit of the basic
financial statements and, in our opinion, is fairly stated in all material
respects in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole.
/s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Los Angeles, California
February 15th, 1999
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 3.4
STATE OF DELAWARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE Page 1
--------------------------------
I, EDWARD J. FREEL, SECRETARY OF STATE OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, DO
HEREBY CERTIFY THE ATTACHED IS A TRUE AND CORRECT COPY OF THE CERTIFICATE OF
AMENDMENT OF "MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.", FILED IN THIS OFFICE ON THE NINETEENTH
DAY OF NOVEMBER, A.D. 1998, AT 9 O'CLOCK A.M.
A FILED COPY OF THIS CERTIFICATE HAS BEEN FORWARDED TO THE NEW CASTLE
COUNTY RECORDER OF DEEDS.
/s/ EDWARD J. FREEL
[LOGO] ----------------------------------------
Edward J. Freel, Secretary of State
2290403 8100 AUTHENTICATION: 9418759
981447064 DATE: 11-20-98
<PAGE> 2
STATE OF DELAWARE
SECRETARY OF STATE
DIVISION OF CORPORATIONS
FILED 09:00 AM 11/19/1998
981447064-2290403
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
OF THE
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
MRV Communications, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under
the laws of the State of Delaware (the "Company"), pursuant to the provisions
of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the "DGCL"). DOES
HEREBY CERTIFY as follows:
FIRST: The Certificate of Incorporation of the Company is hereby
amended by deleting paragraphs A and B of Section 4 of the Certificate of
Incorporation in their present form and substituting therefor new paragraphs A
and B of Section 4 in the following form:
A This corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock, to be
designated, respectively, "Common Stock" and "Preferred Stock." The
total number of shares of this corporation is authorized to issue is
Eighty-One Million (81,000,000) shares of capital stock.
B Of such authorized shares, Eighty Million (80,000,000) shares shall
be designated "Common Stock" and have a par value of $.0034 per
share. One Million (1,000,000) shares shall be designated "Preferred
Stock" and have a par value of $0.01 per share.
SECOND: The amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company
set forth in this Certificate of Amendment has been duly adopted in accordance
with the provisions of Section 242 of the DGCL by (a) the Board of Directors of
the Company having duly adopted a resolution setting forth such amendment and
declaring its advisability and submitting it to the stockholders of the Company
for their approval, and (b) the stockholders of the Company having duly adopted
such amendment by vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock
entitled to vote thereon at a special meeting of stockholders called and held
upon notice in accordance with Section 222 of the DGCL.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused its corporate seal to be
hereunto affixed and this Certificate of Amendment to be signed by Noam Lotan,
its President and Chief Executive Officer, and attested by Shiomo Margalit, its
Secretary, this 15th day of November, 1998.
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ NOAM LOTAN
--------------------------------------
Noam Lotan
President and Chief Executive Officer
ATTEST:
/s/ SHLOMO MARGALIT
- ----------------------------
Shlomo Margalit
Secretary
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 10.31
FIFTH AMENDMENT TO LEASE
This FIFTH AMENDMENT TO LEASE ("Fifth Amendment") is made as of September
14 ,1998 by and between IB BRELL, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, having a
mailing address at 4343 Van Karman Avenue. Newport Beach, California, as
successor-in-interest to 495 Littleton Associates and Quebec Street Investments,
Inc. ("LANDLORD") and XYPLEX, INC. a Massachusetts corporation, having a mailing
address of 295 Foster Street, Littleton, Massachusetts, ("TENANT").
REFERENCE is made to a certain lease, originally dated February 22, 1993
between 495 Littleton Associates as landlord (the "ORIGINAL LANDLORD") and
Tenant, as amended by (a) that certain letter agreement dated as of March 1,
1993 between Original Landlord and Tenant (changing the date of the Lease from
February 22, 1993 to March 2, 1993), (b) that certain letter agreement deed as
of July 7, 1993 between Original, Landlord and Tenant, (c) that certain Third
Amendment to lease dated June 29, 1995 by Connecticut General Life Insurance
Company ("CG") and Tenant, and (d) that certain Fourth Amendment to Lease dated
September 19, 1995 by CG and Tenant (collectively, the "LEASE") for premises
("PREMISES") consisting of 101,031 square feet of leaseable floor area located
at 295 Foster Street, Littleton, Massachusetts;
FURTHER REFERENCE is made to that certain Ratification Agreement dated as
of July, 1997 by Quebec Street Investors, Inc. in favor of Landlord, pursuant to
which Quebec Street Investors, Inc. ratified the amendments to the Lease as set
forth above;
WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant desire to extend the term of the Lease and
to modify the Lease in certain other respects as hereinafter set forth;
WHEREAS, in consideration of Landlord's execution of this Fifth
Amendment, Tenant has agreed to relinquish its rights (if any) which exist by
virtue of Tenant's letter of March 20, 1998 in which Tenant stated that Tenant
was exercising its extension option.
WHEREAS, Tenant hereby certifies to Landlord, as a material part of the
consideration for Landlord entering into this Amendment and without which
Landlord would not enter into this Amendment, as follows:
(a) the Lease is a valid lease, is in full force and effect, has not been
modified, amended or supplemented except as set forth herein, and represents the
entire agreement between the parties;
(b) all obligations and conditions under the Lease to be performed by
Landlord to the date of this Amendment have been satisfied;
(c) there exists no default or event of default, as those or similar
terms may be defined in the Lease ("DEFAULT"), on the part of Landlord of any of
the terms and conditions of the Lease, no event has occurred which, with the
passing of time or giving of notice or both, would constitute a Default, and
Tenant is not entitled to any "free rent", other concession, rent offset, rent
deduction, rent abatement or defenses under the Lease;
(d) to Tenant's knowledge, there is no apparent or likely contamination
of the Premises by Hazardous Materials, and Tenant has not used, nor has Tenant
disposed of, Hazardous Materials on or about the Premises in violation of any
so-called
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<PAGE> 2
environmental laws. For purposes hereof, the term "HAZARDOUS MATERIALS" shall
mean all chemical, materials, substances and similar terms defined as or
included in the definitions of "hazardous substances", "hazardous wastes",
"hazardous materials", or "toxic substances" or words of similar scope or
meaning under any applicable local, state or federal law, as same may be amended
from time to time, or under regulations pursuant thereto;
(e) no actions, voluntary or involuntary, are pending, threatened,
anticipated or contemplated against or by Tenant under the bankruptcy laws of
the United States or any state thereof, or, to the extent same would impair
Tenant's ability to perform its obligations under the Lease, as modified by this
Amendment, under any other laws; and
(f) Tenant has not assigned, sublet, otherwise transferred or encumbered
its interest in the Premises or the Lease except as specifically set forth
above, and Tenant and the party executing this Amendment on behalf of Tenant
have the full right and authority to enter into this Amendment.
WHEREAS, Landlord hereby certifies to Tenant, as a material part of the
consideration for Tenant entering into this Amendment and without which Tenant
would not enter into this Amendment, as follows:
(a) all obligations and conditions under the Lease to be performed by
Tenant to the date of this Amendment have been satisfied;
(b) there exists no default or event of default, as those or similar
terms may be defined in the Lease ("DEFAULT"), on the part of Tenant of any of
the terms and conditions of the Lease, no event has occurred which, with the
passing of time or giving of notice or both, would constitute a Default.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of Tenant's certification set forth
above, for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which are hereby acknowledged, and for the mutual promises hereinafter set
forth, Landlord and Tenant agree to amend the Lease, effective as of the date
hereof as follows:
1. The term of the Lease as set forth in Section 1.1 thereof is hereby
extended for the period of October 1, 1998 through September 30, 2003,
subject to earlier termination as provided in the Lease.
2. The Annual Fixed Rent as set forth in Section 1.1 of the Lease is hereby
amended by adding the following thereto:
"ANNUAL FIXED RENT RATE: The Annual Fixed Rent shall be (a) $1,060,825.50 for
the period commencing October 1, 1998 and ending
September 30, 2001; and (b) $1,086,083.25 for the
period commencing October 1, 2001 and ending on
September 30,2003."
3. The Monthly Fixed Rent Rate as set forth in Section 1.1 of the Lease is
hereby amended by adding the following thereto:
"MONTHLY FIXED RENT RATE: The Monthly Fixed Rent shall be (a) $88,402.13 for
the period commencing October 1, 1998 and ending
September 30, 2001; and (b) 90,506.94 for
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<PAGE> 3
the period commencing October 1, 2001 and ending on
September 30, 2003."
4. The first sentence of Section 2.3 of the Lease is hereby amended to state as
follows:
"Tenant shall have the right to extend term of this Lease for one period
of three years, such period to begin immediately upon the expiration of
the current term of this Lease on September 30, 2003 and expiring on
September 30, 2006 (the "EXTENDED TERM").
5. The third sentence of Section 2.3 of the Lease is hereby amended to delete
the time period "six (6) months" appearing therein and to substitute the time
period "twelve (12) months" in place thereof, such that Tenant's notice
exercising its option for the extended term must be given to Landlord on or
before September 30, 2002.
6. Section 6.2.1 of the Lease is hereby amended to provide as follows:
Not to assign, transfer, mortgage or pledge this Lease or to sublease
(which term shall be deemed to include the granting of concessions and
licenses and the like) all or any part of the Premises or suffer or
permit this Lease or the leasehold estate hereby created or any other
rights arising under this Lease to be assigned, transferred or
encumbered, in whole or in part, whether voluntarily, involuntarily or by
operation of law, or permit the occupancy of the Premises by anyone other
than Tenant without the prior written consent of Landlord which consent
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed (as herein set forth),
provided that the assignee or subtenant shall use the Premises only for
the Permitted Uses. In the event Tenant desires to assign this Lease or
sublet, in any one instance, fifty (50%) percent or more of the Premises,
Tenant shall notify Landlord in writing of Tenant's intent to so assign
this lease or sublet the Premises and the proposed effective date of such
subletting or assignment, and shall request in such notification that
Landlord consent thereto. Tenant's request for Landlord's consent shall
include the following documents and information ("TRANSFER INFORMATION"):
(A) a copy of the fully executed agreement (which may be a fully executed
and accepted letter of intent, assignment, sublease or comparable
document) between Tenant and the proposed assignee or sublessee
("TRANSFEREE") setting forth all of the terms and conditions of the
proposed transfer including, without limitation, (i) all financial terms
including the consideration for or relating to the transfer; (ii) a
description of any leasehold improvements which will be required
including the estimated cost thereof and the party (Tenant or the
transferee) which will be responsible therefor; (iii) the date on which
the Premises or the applicable portion thereof is to be delivered to the
transferee; and (iv) with respect to a sublease, the portion of the
Premises which will be subleased and the term of the sublease; (b)
financial statement(s) from the transferee and any guarantor which shall
be issued and dated within six (6) months prior to Tenant's request for
Landlord's consent (and, if such statement(s) are for a period ending
prior to said six-month period then same shall be supplemented with
monthly balance sheets through the applicable date) and shall set forth
the financial worth of the proposed transferee, including net worth and
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<PAGE> 4
(c) reasonable information concerning the transferee's business
including, without limitation, the nature of the business and the
business experience of the principals thereof. Landlord may terminate
this Lease in the case of a proposed assignment, or suspend this Lease
protanto for the period and with respect to the space involved in the
case of a proposed subletting, by giving written notice of termination or
suspension to Tenant within fifteen (15) business days following receipt
by Landlord of Tenant's request, and all of the Transfer Information,
with such termination or suspension to be effective as of the transfer
date set forth in Tenant's request for Landlord's consent which transfer
date shall not be earlier than the date on which TENANT would have been
required to deliver possession of the Premises or applicable portion
thereof to the transferee provided that in no event shall the transfer
date be later than six (6) months after the date of Tenant's request for
Landlord's consent (even if Tenant would not have been required to
deliver possession of the Premises or applicable portion thereof to the
transferee until after the end of such six month period). If Landlord
does not so terminate or suspend within fifteen (15) business day period,
Landlord shall be deemed not to have terminated or suspended and
Landlord's consent shall not be unreasonably withheld to an assignment or
subletting during the term of this Lease, provided that the assignee or
subtenant shall use the Premises only for the Permitted Uses. Under any
circumstances, such consent shall be deemed granted if Landlord has not
notified Tenant either (a) that Landlord is withholding consent and the
reason therefor or (b) that Landlord has elected to terminate or suspend
the Lease as provided above within the fifteen (15) business day period
and such failure continues for an additional three (3) business days
after Landlord's receipt of a reminder notice from Tenant, Tenant shall,
as Additional Rent, reimburse Landlord promptly for Landlord's reasonable
legal expenses incurred in connection with any request by Tenant for such
consent. No subletting or assignment shall in any way impair the
continuing primary liability of Tenant hereunder, and no consent to any
subletting or assignment in a particular instance shall be deemed to be a
waiver of the obligation to obtain the Landlord's written approval in the
case of any other subletting or assignment. Notwithstanding anything to
the contrary herein contained, but subject to the immediately preceding
sentence of this Subsection 6.2.1, Tenant shall have the right, upon 30
days' prior written notice to Landlord and without Landlord's consent, to
assign this Lease or sublet the premises to: (i) an affiliate of Tenant,
(ii) a subsidiary of Tenant, or (iii) and entity resulting from the
merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of the assets
of Tenant.
In the event Tenant desires to sublet less than fifty (50%) percent of
the Premises, Tenant shall notify Landlord in writing of Tenant's intent
to so sublet such portion of the Premises and the proposed effective date
of such subletting and shall request in such notification that Landlord
consent thereto, and such request shall be accompanied by the Transfer
Information. Landlord agrees that its consent to such proposed subletting
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Under any circumstances,
such consent shall be deemed granted if Landlord has not notified Tenant
that Landlord is withholding consent and the reason therefor within the
fifteen (15) business days after Landlord's receipt of
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<PAGE> 5
Tenant's written request and the Transfer information and such failure
continues for an additional three (3) business days after Landlord's
receipt of a reminder notice from Tenant. Tenant shall, as Additional
Rent, reimburse Landlord promptly for Landlord's reasonable legal
expenses incurred in connection with any request by Tenant for such
consent. If for any sublease so consented to by Landlord hereunder Tenant
receives rent or other consideration, either initially or over the term
of the sublease, in excess of such rent fairly allocable to the part,
after appropriate adjustments to assure that all other payments called
for hereunder are appropriately taken into account, and after deduction
for reasonable expenses of Tenant in connection with the assignment or
sublease, Tenant shall pay to Landlord as additional rent fifty percent
(50%) of the excess of each such payment of rent or other consideration
received by Tenant promptly after its receipt.
7. Landlord shall pay to Tenant the amount of $1.25 per leaseable square
foot of the Premises ($126,288.75), which payment shall be made by Landlord to
Tenant upon Landlord's receipt of Tenant's rent for October 1998.
8. Landlord acknowledges that Landlord is holding the Security Deposit, paid
by Tenant pursuant to Section 4.4 of the Lease, in the amount of $36,145.87 plus
interest thereon in the amount of $3,807.41 as of 7/29/98 (such that Landlord is
holding $39,953.28 as of 7/29/98).
All terms which are defined in the Lease shall have the same meanings
when used in this Fifth Amendment (unless a contrary intent is clearly indicated
from the context herein).
The Lease is hereby ratified and confirmed and, as modified by this Fifth
Amendment, shall remain in full force and effect.
All references appearing in the Lease and in any related instruments
shall be amended and read hereafter to be references to the Lease as amended by
this Fifth Amendment.
This Fifth Amendment shall have the effect of an agreement under seal and
shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their
respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.
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<PAGE> 6
EXECUTED under seal as of the date first set forth above.
LANDLORD:
IB BRELL, L.P.,
a Delaware limited partnership
BY: KB Investors V,
a Delaware limited partnership,
its General Partner
By: KB Holdings, L.P., a California general partnership,
its General Partner
By: Koll Investment Management, Inc.,
a California corporation
d/b/a K/B Realty Advisors, its General Partner
By: /s/ [Signatured Illegible]
------------------------------
Its: SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
------------------------------
TENANT:
XYPLEX, INC.
By: /s/ EDMUND GLAZER
------------------------------
Name : Edmund Glazer
Title: Chief Financial Officer
hereunto duly authorized
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<PAGE> 7
LEASE GUARANTY
FOR VALUE RECEIVED, and in consideration for, and as an inducement to IB
BRELL, L.P. as Landlord to make the foregoing FIFTH AMENDMENT TO LEASE with
XYPLEX, INC., as Tenant, the undersigned, MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC., A DELAWARE
CORPORATION with an address of 295 Foster Street, Littleton, Massachusetts
(sometimes the "GUARANTOR"), being the holder of all of the stock of Tenant and,
as a result, deriving a benefit from the execution of the Fifth Amendment to
Lease, unconditionally guarantees the full performance and observance of all the
covenants, conditions and agreements therein provided to be performed and
observed by Tenant and Tenant's successors and assigns, and expressly agrees
that the validity of this Guaranty and the obligations of the guarantor
hereunder shall not be terminated, affected or impaired by reason of the
granting by Landlord of any indulgences to Tenant or by reason of the assertion
by Landlord against Tenant of any of the rights or remedies reserved to Landlord
pursuant to the provisions of the Lease or by the relief of Tenant from any of
Tenant's obligations under said Lease by operation of law or otherwise
(including without implied limitation, the rejection or assignment of the Lease
in connection with proceedings under bankruptcy laws now or hereafter enacted),
irrespective of Landlord's consent or other action or inaction with respect to
such relief, the undersigned hereby waiving notice, protest, demand of the
acceptance of this Guaranty all suretyship defenses and all defenses in the
nature thereof.
The undersigned further covenants and agrees that this Guaranty shall
continue in full force and effect as to any renewal, modification or extension
of the Lease, the exercise of any option including, without limitation, options
to purchase, to extend, to expand or otherwise, whether or not the undersigned
shall have received any notice thereof. The undersigned further agrees that the
undersigned's liability under this Guaranty shall be primary, and that in any
right of action which shall accrue to Landlord under said Lease, Landlord may,
at Landlord's option, proceed against the undersigned and Tenant, jointly and
severally, and may proceed against any or all of the undersigned without having
commenced any action against or having obtained any judgment against Tenant. In
addition to any other remedies Landlord may have against the undersigned and the
obligation of the undersigned to Landlord, the undersigned shall reimburse
Landlord for all costs incurred by Landlord in connection with the enforcement
of this Guaranty or the Lease or a default under either including, without
limitation, all costs of collection and reasonable attorneys' fees. No party
liable under this Guaranty shall be entitled to rights of subrogation against
any party or interest in the Lease before the full performance and observance of
all covenants, conditions and agreements of the Lease.
It is agreed that the failure of Landlord to insist in any one or more
instances upon a strict performance or observance of any of the terms,
provisions or covenants of the Lease or to exercise any right therein contained
shall not be construed or deemed to be a waiver or relinquishment for any
subsequent performance or observance of such term, provision, covenant or right,
but the same shall continue and remain in full force and effect. Receipt by
Landlord of rent with knowledge of the breach of any provision of the Lease
shall not be deemed a waiver of such breach.
No subletting, assignment or other transfer of the Lease, or any interest
therein, shall operate to extinguish or diminish the liability of the
undersigned guarantor under this Guaranty provided that (i) if Landlord
exercises Landlord's right to terminate the Lease in the case of a proposed
assignment as set forth in Section 6.2.1. then, except as set forth below, this
Guaranty shall terminate as of the date on which the Lease terminates and Tenant
surrenders possession of the Premises to Landlord in accordance with the terms
of the Lease ("TERMINATION EFFECTIVE DATE"), and (ii) if Landlord
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<PAGE> 8
exercises Landlord's right to suspend the Lease protanto for the period and with
respect to the space involved in the case of a proposed subletting of 50% or
more of the Premises as set forth in Section 6.2.1, then, except as set forth
below, this Guarantee shall not apply to the portion of the Premises to which
the suspension is applicable or to the Lease obligations for such portion of the
Premises during the period from the date on which the protanto suspension
commences and Tenant surrenders possession of the applicable portion of the
Premises to Landlord ("SUSPENSION EFFECTIVE DATE"), until the date on which the
protanto suspension ends and Landlord redelivers possession of the applicable
portion of the Premises to Tenant (and thereupon the Guaranty once again shall
be effective with respect to the applicable portion of the Premises and the
related Lease obligations). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Guaranty shall
remain in full force and effect (a) with respect to any liability or Tenant or
Guarantor arising before the Termination Effective Date and before the
Suspension Effective Date, and (b) with respect to the portions of the Premises
for which Landlord has not exercised Landlord's suspension rights and the Lease
provisions relating to such portions of the Premises.
Wherever reference is made to the liability of Tenant named in the Lease,
such reference shall be deemed likewise to refer to the undersigned guarantor.
It is further agreed that all of the terms and provisions hereof shall inure
to the benefit of the respective successors and assigns of Landlord, and shall
be binding upon the respective heirs, executors, administrators and assigns of
the undersigned.
WITNESS THE EXECUTION UNDER SEAL, WHEREOF, this 14th day of September, 1998.
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ EDMUND GLAZER
------------------------------
Its: Chief Financial Officer
------------------------------
hereunto duly authorized
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<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 10.37
16th September, 1998
UNDERLEASE
of Unit 16 Campbell Court Bramley Basingstoke Hampshire
LOWE AZURE LIMITED
and
N-Base EUROPE GmbH
and
MRV COMMUNICATIONS, Inc.
FLADGATE FIELDER
Walgate House
25 Church Street
Basingstoke
Hampshire RG21 7QQ
Tel: 01256 463044
Fax: 01256 471600
Ref: SST/st/DOC/O470
<PAGE> 2
UNDERLEASE dated 16th September 1998
BETWEEN
1) LOWE AZURE ADVERTISING LIMITED whose registered office is at
___________Street Basingstoke Hampshire RG21 7QQ ("the landlord")
2) N-BASE EUROPE GmbH of Voltastrasse 6 D63128 Dietzenbach Germany ("the
Tenant")
3) MRV COMMUNICATIONS INC.of 8917 Fullbright Avenue, Chatsworth, California
91311 USA ("the Surety")
1. DEFINITIONS
In this Lease:
1.1 Whenever there is more than one tenant or surety all their
obligations can be enforced against all of the tenants or sureties
(as the case may be) jointly and against each individually.
1.2 A reference to an Act of Parliament refers to that Act as it
applies at the date of this lease and any later amendment or
reenactment of it.
1.3 "Interest" means a payment at four percent above the published
base rate of Barclays Bank plc compounded on each quarter day and
paid both before and after judgment or arbitration award. If
another bank succeeds to the business of that bank the name of the
successor is to be substituted for it. If the named bank ceases to
trade in other circumstances the Landlord may nominate any member
of the Bankers' Clearing House to take the place of the named
bank.
1.4 "the Superior Landlord" means the landlord from time to time in
the Superior Lease.
1.5 "the Superior Lease" means the Lease of the Property dated 29th
September 1989 made between T A Fisher & Sons Limited(1) and the
Landlord(2).
1.6 Any obligation to pay money refers to a sum exclusive of value
added tax ("VAT") and any VAT charged on it is payable in
addition.
<PAGE> 3
2. DEMISE
In exchange for the obligations undertaken by the Tenant:
2.1 The Landlord lets the property described below ("the Property") to
the Tenant for the period from the 30th April 1997 to the 20th
September 2010 (subject to earlier determination as set out below)
("the Lease Period") on the Tenant agreeing to pay a rent of pound
sterling29,500 a year (subject to review as set out below) (which
sum shall be (subject to clause 3.3 hereof) exclusive of rates and
service charge) ("the Basic Rent") and as further rent ("the
Insurance Rent") the sums the Landlord spends each year during the
Lease period:
2.1.1 as required by the Superior Lease to reimburse the landlord
under the superior Lease for the cost of insuring the
Property and
2.1.2 for insuring against 3 years loss of Basic Rent and (if the
Landlord so desires) service charge under this Lease and
2.1.3 any VAT payable on any payments reserved as rent in this
Lease.
2.2 The Property is Unit 16 Campbell Court, Campbell Road, Bramley
Basingstoke Hampshire as described in the Superior Lease and is
shown edged red on the plan annexed to the Superior Lease. It is
let:
2.2.1 with the benefit of the rights mentioned in the Superior
Lease.
2.2.2 subject to the rights of others mentioned in the Superior
Lease.
2.2.3 subject to all matters to which the Superior Lease is
expressed to be subject.
3. TENANT'S COVENANTS
The tenant agrees with the Landlord:
TO PAY RENTS
3.1 To pay the Basic Rent by equal quarterly payments in advance on
the usual quarter days by standing order (if the Landlord so
requires) (the first and
2
<PAGE> 4
last payments being proportionate sums if appropriate the first
payment being made on the 30th of April, 1997
3.2 To pay the Insurance Rent on the next quarter day after being
notified of the amount of it
3.3 To pay as additional rent as soon as the Landlord gives the Tenant
written notice thereof a sum equal to the amount of service charge
paid by the Landlord in respect of the Property under the Superior
Lease from time to time and the Landlord hereby agrees to provide
reasonable evidence as to the amount of service charges payable.
3.4 Not to reduce any payment of rent by making any deduction from it
or by setting any sum off against it.
TO PAY INTEREST
3.5 To pay Interest on any rent paid more than seven days after it
falls due.
TO COMPLY WITH SUPERIOR LEASE OBLIGATIONS
3.6 To comply with the obligations undertaken in the Superior Lease by
the person named in it as tenant except the obligation to pay rent
and to keep the Landlord indemnified against all actions,
proceedings, costs, claims, and demands in any way relating
thereto.
ALIENATION OF THE PROPERTY
3.7 GENERAL
3.7.1 Not to charge assign underlet share or dispose of
occupation or possession of the Property or any part except
for an assignment or an underletting of the whole which
complies with the provisions of this clause.
ASSIGNMENT OF WHOLE
3.7.2 Not to assign the whole of the Property without the prior
written consent of the Landlord (such consent not to be
unreasonably withheld) provided that the Landlord shall be
entitled (for the purposes of Section 19(1A) of the
Landlord and Tenant Act 1927):
3
<PAGE> 5
SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE CONSENT TO ASSIGN CAN BE WITHHELD
3.7.2.1 to withhold its consent in any of the following
circumstances namely:
3.7.2.1.1 where the proposed assignee is an
associated company of the Tenant.
"Associated" in this context means
where the proposed assignee is a
subsidiary or holding company of
the Tenant as defined in Section
736 of the Companies Act 1985 or
where the Tenant has control (as
defined in Section 840 of the
Income and Corporation Taxes Act
1988) of the proposed assignee.
3.7.2.1.2 where in the reasonable opinion of
the Landlord the proposed assignee
is not of sufficient financial
standing to enable it to comply
with the tenants covenants in this
Lease.
3.7.2.1.3 where in the reasonable opinion of
the Landlord the value of the
Landlords interest in the Property
or any other property within the
vicinity of the Property would be
diminished or otherwise adversely
affected by the proposed assignment
on the assumption (whether or not a
fact) that the Landlord wishes to
sell its interest the day following
completion of the assignment of
this Lease to the proposed
assignee.
3.7.2.1.4 where the proposed assignee enjoys
diplomatic or state immunity
(unless it is the Government of the
United Kingdom of Great Britain or
Northern Ireland of any department
thereof or the Crown).
3.7.2.1.5 where the proposed assignee is
incorporated in or exists under the
laws of or holds the largest
proportion of its assets
4
<PAGE> 6
within a jurisdiction which does
not reciprocally and by simple
registration enforce judgments of
the United Kingdom civil courts.
3.7.2.1.6 where the Tenant fails to provide
an unconditional undertaking from
its solicitors to pay on demand all
costs and disbursements (including
irrecoverable VAT) which may be
reasonably incurred by the Landlord
in connection with the application
for consent including (without
prejudice to the generality of the
foregoing) the costs of its
solicitors surveyors and
accountants employed by it to
consider any reasonable aspect of
the proposed assignment
3.7.2.1.7 where the Superior Landlord refuses
its consent
SPECIFIC CONDITIONS IMPOSABLE ON GRANT OF CONSENT TO ASSIGN
3.7.2.2 to impose all or any of the following matters as a
condition of its consent namely
3.7.2.2.1 the Tenant shall obtain the written
consent of the Landlord not more than
one month prior to the assignment.
3.7.2.2.2 the form of consent (which shall be by
deed) shall be such as the Landlord
shall reasonably require consistent with
the requirement set out in this
subclause 3.7.2
3.7.2.2.3 the assignee shall in the consent
covenant with the Landlord to observe
and perform all the tenants covenants
and obligations and comply with the
conditions, declarations, and provisos
in this Lease
3.7.2.2.4 the Tenant and the Tenant's surety (if
any) shall each execute and deliver to
the Landlord prior to the assignment a
deed of
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<PAGE> 7
guarantee being an authorized
guarantee agreement within Section 16 of
the Landlord and Tenant (Covenants) Act
1995 in the form set out in the Schedule
hereto or such other form as is
reasonably required by the Landlord.
3.7.2.2.5 the Tenant shall have paid to the
Landlord all rents and other sums which
have fallen due under this Lease and
have remedied all other material
breaches of the tenant's covenants and
conditions in this Lease prior to the
date of the assignment
3.7.2.2.6 the assignment shall not take place
until any requisite consent of any
Superior Landlord or mortgage has been
obtained and any lawfully imposed
condition of such consent satisfied
3.7.2.2.7 the Tenant will procure that the
assignee provides (where the Landlord
reasonably so requires);
3.7.2.2.7.1 a respectable responsible
and financially sound surety
(other than the Tenant) who
shall be acceptable to the
Landlord (acting reasonably)
and who shall be resident in
England or Wales and able to
meet the surety's obligations
under this paragraph and who
guarantees to the Landlord the
payment of rents and
compliance with the tenant's
obligations under this Lease
such guarantee to be in the
form set out in Clause 6 of
this Lease with such
variations as the Landlord
shall reasonably require.
6
<PAGE> 8
3.7.2.2.7.2 any other security in England or
Wales as the Landlord shall
reasonably require for
compliance by the assignee with
its obligations to pay rent and
comply with the Tenant's
obligations under this Lease or
by any surety of its obligations
under its guarantee and in such
form as the Landlord shall
reasonably require.
3.7.2.2.7.3 If the assignee or any surety is
otherwise than a person resident
and ordinarily resident in
England or Wales or a company or
other body incorporated or
formed under English law or has
no established place of business
in England or Wales.
3.7.2.2.7.3.1 an acknowledgment
that it irrevocably
submits to the
jurisdiction of the
English civil courts
in relation to all
matters arising
under this Lease or
such consent or any
security given to
the Landlord
pursuant to the
terms of this Lease;
and
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<PAGE> 9
3.7.2.2.7.3.2 an irrevocable
designation of a
firm of solicitors
in England or Wales
who shall at all
relevant times be a
valid address for
service of any
English civil court
proceedings or any
notice required to
be served under or
by virtue of this
Lease such
acknowledgment and
designation to be
included in any
consent granted
under this sub-
clause 3.7.2
UNDERLETTING
3.7.3 Not to underlet the whole of the Property without the prior
written consent of the Landlord (such consent not to be
unreasonably withheld) and then:
3.7.3.1 Subject to the conditions set out in Clause 4(11) (c) of
the Superior Lease
3.7.3.2 by way of underlease containing an agreement to exclude
Sections 24-28 Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 in respect
of which a court order in a court of competent
jurisdiction has been obtained authorizing such
exclusion (a certified copy of such order having
8
<PAGE> 10
been produced to the Landlord) containing provisions
relating to alienation in similar form to this Clause
3.7 but expressly forbidding any underletting of whole
or part and requiring the consent of the Superior
Landlord and the Landlord
REGISTRATION OF DEALINGS AND KEYHOLDERS
3.7.4 3.7.4.1 within one month after any assignment transfer
underlease or any other writing effecting or evidencing
any transmission or devolution of the property or any
part thereof or any interest therein and whether
permitted or not and whether immediate mediate or
derivative or within one month of the Property becoming
empty or ceasing to be regularly occupied by the Tenant
for the purpose of its business or any change in control
of the Tenant (control being as defined in Section 840
Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988) to give notice
thereof in writing to the Landlord or its solicitors and
to produce to them a certified copy of the assignment
transfer or other document under which the same arises
and pay a fee (plus VAT) for registration or noting
thereof by the Landlord's solicitors. The fee during the
first five years of the term shall be pound sterling25.
3.7.4.2 to ensure that at all times the Landlord and its
managing agents have written notice of the name, home
address, and home telephone number of two keyholders of
the Property.
INDEMNITY
3.8 To indemnify and keep indemnified the Landlord from and against any
liability in any way arising out of:
3.8.1 the state of repair or condition of the Property insofar as the
Tenant is liable therefore under the covenants herein contained
3.8.2 any act of omission of the Tenant or its agents servants
licensees or visitors
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<PAGE> 11
3.8.3 works of repair construction or alteration to the Property
carried out by or on behalf of the Tenant
3.8.4 the user of the Property
3.8.5 the user of the vehicles in any car park by the Tenant or its
agents servants licensees or visitors
3.8.6 any breach by the Tenant of any covenant on the part of the
Tenant of any condition herein contained
COST OF NOTICES
3.9 To pay all costs charges and expenses (including legal costs surveyors
fees and other professional fees and disbursements and commission
payable to a bailiff (plus VAT)) incurred by the Landlord:
3.9.1 in or in contemplation of the preparation and service of any
notice pursuant to or any proceeding under Section 146 and/or
147 of the Law of Property Act 1925 or otherwise (whether or not
any right of re-entry or forfeiture has been waived by the
Landlord or a notice served under the said Section 146 or the
said Section 147 is complied with by the Tenant or the Tenant
has been relieved under the provisions of the said Act and
notwithstanding that forfeiture may be avoided otherwise than by
relief granted by the Court.)
3.9.2 incidental to or in contemplation of the preparation and service
of any notice demand and/or schedule of dilapidations whether
during or after the expiration or prior determination of the
Term
3.9.3 in the supervision or superintendence of any works to be carried
out in pursuance of any notice and/or schedule of dilapidations
whether or not such works shall be carried out during or after
the expiration or prior determination of the Term
3.9.4 in connection with the recovery of arrears of rent due from the
Tenant, hereunder and/or in connection with or procuring the
remedying of any breach of covenant on the part of the Tenant
contained in this Lease.
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<PAGE> 12
COST OF LICENSES
3.10 to pay on a full indemnity solicitor and own client basis
(including VAT) the proper legal charges and surveyors' fees of
the Landlord and the fees of any other professional or
contractor whom the Landlord considers in his absolute
discretion necessary to advise it properly including the stamp
duty on the licenses and counterparts and any other
disbursements resulting from all applications by the Tenant for
any consent of the Landlord required by this Lease whether or
not such application is granted refused withdrawn or left in
abeyance
3.11 to give written notice to the Landlord within 7 days of any
change in status of the Tenant under any legislation relating to
VAT and in particular (but without prejudice to the (foregoing)
if the Tenant (being a taxable person) ceases to be a taxable
person or its use of the Property restricts VAT recovery on
costs relating to that Property to less than 80%.
4. LANDLORD'S COVENANTS
The Landlord agrees with the Tenant:
QUIET ENJOYMENT
4.1 So long as the Tenant does not contravene any term of this Lease
to allow the Tenant to possess and use the Property without
interference from the Landlord any one who derives title from or
trustee for the Landlord or anyone from whom the Landlord
derives title
TO PAY SUPERIOR LEASE RENTS
4.2 To pay the rents payable under the Superior Lease in the manner
set out in the Superior Lease
TO ENFORCE SUPERIOR LEASE COVENANTS
4.3 to take all reasonable steps at the request and cost of the
Tenant to enforce promptly the obligations undertaken by the
Superior Landlord in the Superior Lease
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<PAGE> 13
5. PROVISOS
The parties agree:
FORFEITURE
5.1 The landlord is entitled to forfeit this Lease by entering any
part of the Property whenever the Tenant or the Surety:
5.1.1 is fourteen days late in paying any rent even if it was
not formally demanded.
5.1.2 has not complied with any obligations in this Lease
5.1.3 when one or more individuals: is are or one is
adjudicated bankrupt or an interim receiver is appointed
of the Property of the Tenant
5.1.4 when a company: it goes into liquidation unless that is
solely for the purpose of amalgamation or reconstruction
when solvent (provided that such amalgamation or
reconstruction is first approved by the Landlord (whose
approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed)
an administrative receiver of it is appointed or any
administration order is made in respect of it or any
equivalent or similar event occurs in the jurisdiction
of the Tenant's or Surety's country of origin.
The forfeiture of this Lease does not cancel any outstanding obligation
which the Tenant or the Surety owes the Landlord.
ARBITRATION
5.2 Any disputed matter referred to arbitration under this Lease is
to be decided by arbitration under the Arbitration Acts
1950-1996 by a single arbitrator appointed by the parties to the
dispute. If they do not agree on that appointment the then
President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors may
appoint the arbitrator at the request of any party.
NOTICES
5.3 5.3.1. without prejudice to any other lawful method of service
but subject to the provisions of Clause 5.3.2 all
notices authorized by this deed or by statute to be
served shall be served in
12
<PAGE> 14
accordance with the provisions of Section 196 of the Law
of Property Act 1925 and the Recorded Delivery Service
Act of 1962.
5.3.2 While the Tenant is N-Base Europe GmbH and the Surety is
MRV Communications Inc any notice or process in any
legal action or proceedings to be served on the Tenant
or the Surety shall be deemed to be duly served if
served on the Tenant or the Surety c/o Sheen Stickland,
4 High Street, Alton, Hampshire or at such other address
in England and Wales as the Tenant shall have given
written notice to the Landlord but otherwise in
accordance with Clause 5.3.1
YIELDING UP
5.4 Following the expiry of this Lease (by effluxion of time or
otherwise) the Tenant shall yield up the property in the state
required by the provisions of this Lease.
SUPERIOR LANDLORD'S CONSENT ETC.
5.5 5.5.1 The powers rights matters and discretions excepted and
reserved to the Landlord under this Lease shall also be
excepted and reserved to and be exercisable by any
Superior Landlord its servants agents or workmen
5.5.2 If the Tenant shall do or propose to do any matter or
thing for which the consent of the Landlord and/or the
Superior Landlord shall be required that Tenant shall
bear the cost of obtaining such consent together with
all solicitors' and surveyors' fees and disbursements in
connection therewith (plus VAT) and shall indemnify the
Landlord against the same
5.5.3 Any provision in this Lease whereby the Landlord's
consent is required shall be subject to the
qualification that the Superior Landlord's consent is
also required where so provided by any Superior Lease.
5.5.4 The Landlord shall not be deemed to be unreasonably
withholding consent in any matter where the Superior
Landlord's consent is required and the Landlord is
unable (having used reasonable endeavors but not having
had to apply to Court for a declaration) to obtain it
13
<PAGE> 15
BREAK CLAUSE
5.6 5.6.1 Either party may terminate this Lease on
[ ]2002 ("the First Break Date") or
[ ]2006 ("the Second Break Date") by serving
a notice in writing to that effect on the other not less
than six months prior to the First Break Date or not
less than twelve months prior to the Second Break Date
and the Tenant shall give vacant possession to the
Landlord on the First Break Date or the Second Break
Date (as the case may be)
A notice served by the Tenant under this Clause shall
not be effective (as the case may be):
5.6.1.1 if on the day preceding the Second Break Date the Tenant
shall not have paid to the Landlord a sum equal to the
then current annual Basic Rent
5.6.1.2 if either at the date of giving it or on the date of its
expiry there shall be any arrears of rent due from the
Tenant
Time is of the essence in the operation of this clause
5.6.2. The Tenant may terminate this Lease by serving a Notice
in writing to that effect on the Landlord at any time
after the First Break Date whenever the Landlord:
5.6.2.1 when one or more individuals:
5.6.2.1.1 is are or one is adjudicated bankrupt
or an interim receiver is appointed of
the property of the Landlord
5.6.2.2 when a company:
5.6.2.2.1 it goes into liquidation unless that
is solely for the purpose of
amalgamation or reconstruction when
solvent an administrative receiver of
it is appointed or any equivalent or
similar event occurs in the
jurisdiction of the Landlord's country
of origin
14
<PAGE> 16
EXCLUSION OF 1954 ACT
5.7 Having been authorized to do so by an order of the Basingstoke
County Court (No ) made on the ______day of_____________1997
the Landlord and the Tenant agree that the provisions of section
24 to 28 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 are excluded in
relation to this deed
RELEASE OF LANDLORD
5.8 The Landlord shall be released from all liability under this
Lease on an assignment by the Landlord of its reversionary
interest (subject always to Section 26(2) of the Landlord and
Tenant (Covenants) Act 1995)
CHOICE OF LAW AND SUBMISSION TO JURISDICTION
5.9 5.9.1 The Lease shall be governed by and construed in
accordance in all respects with the laws of England and
the parties hereby submit to the non-exclusive
jurisdiction of the High Court of Justice in England in
relation to all disputes and matters relating to these
presents.
5.9.2 To the extent that the Tenant is entitled to any right
of immunity from any judicial proceedings from the
granting of any form of relief in any proceedings from
attachment to its property or assets or from execution
of judgment on the grounds of sovereignty or otherwise
in respect of any matter arising out of or relating to
its obligations hereunder the Tenant irrevocably waives
such right for the benefit of the Landlord and agrees
not to invoke such right against the Landlord and
consents to the giving of such relief for the issue of
any such proceedings for process of attachment or
execution by the Landlord and covenants to indemnify the
Landlord against all costs and expenses incurred by the
Landlord in enforcing any such judgment.
SUSPENSION OF RENT
5.10 During any period (not exceeding 3 years from the date of damage
or destruction) when all or part of the Property cannot be put
to its accustomed use because of damage from any risk against
which the Superior Landlord shall have insured the Basic Rent,
the Insurance Rent and the Service Charge is canceled or reduced
as appropriate unless or to the
15
<PAGE> 17
extent that the insurers do not pay under the policy because of
something done or not done by the Tenant its servants agents or
invitees. Any dispute whether and how this clause applies is to
be referred to arbitration.
6. RENT REVIEW
The Basic Rent stated in Clause 2.1 of this Lease is subject to review
at the same times as the yearly rent reserved under the Superior Lease
is required to be reviewed under Clause 7(1) of the Superior Lease
(except 29th September 1993) and on the same terms as Clause 7 of the
Superior Lease as if Clause 7 of the Superior Lease had been set out in
full in this Lease (subject to such variations as are necessary) to the
intent that the yearly rent stated in Clause 2.1 of this Lease will
never be less than the yearly rent as agreed or determined pursuant to
Clause 7(1) of the Superior Lease.
7. SURETY COVENANT
7.1 The Surety hereby covenants and guarantees with and to the
Landlord as a primary obligation that the Tenant or the Surety
will at all times pay the rents and all other sums reserved and
made payable by this Lease in the manner and at the respective
times appointed for payment thereof and will perform and observe
all the covenants on the part of the Tenant and the conditions
and provisions contained in this Lease and the Surety hereby
indemnifies the Landlord against all claims demands losses
damages costs and expenses whatsoever sustained by the Landlord
by reason of or arising in any way directly or indirectly out of
any default by the Tenant in the payment of the said rents or
other sums in the manner aforesaid or in the performance or
observance of the said covenants and the conditions and
provisions or any of them provided always that any neglect delay
or forbearance on the part of the Landlord in enforcing or
giving time to the Tenant for payment of the said rents or other
sums or the performance or observances of any of the said
covenants and conditions and provisions or any variation in the
terms of this Lease or the transfer of the reversion immediately
expectant on the term granted by this Lease or the release of
anyone of the persons acting as the Surety (if more than one)
from liability under this Lease or any other act omission matter
or thing whatsoever whereby (but for this provision) the Surety
would be exonerated either wholly or in part from this covenant
and guarantee and indemnify (other than a release under seal
given by the Landlord) shall not release or in any way lessen or
affect the liability of the Surety hereunder.
7.2 The Surety hereby further covenants with the Landlord that if
this Lease is forfeited or if the Tenant goes into liquidation
and the liquidator disclaims
16
<PAGE> 18
this Lease or if the Tenant is wound-up or ceases to exist (or
if the Tenant for the time being is an individual and becomes
bankrupt and the trustees in bankruptcy disclaim this Lease) or
if this Lease is disclaimed by or on behalf of the Tenant under
any statutory or other power the Surety will accept from and
execute and deliver to the Landlord a counterpart of a new lease
of the Demised Premises for a term commencing on the date of
such disclaimer or other event putting an end to the effect of
this Lease as aforesaid and continuing for the residue then
remaining unexpired of the Term granted by this Lease such new
lease to be at the cost of the Surety and to reserve the same
rents and other sums as are then reserved and made payable by
this Lease and to be subject to the same covenants conditions
and provisions (including the provisions for the review of rent
at the times and in manner contained in this Lease) as are
contained in this Lease (with the exception of this clause)
provided always that the Surety shall not be bound to accept any
such new lease as aforesaid unless the Landlord within the
period of ninety (90) days after it shall have been notified in
writing of such disclaimer or other event as aforesaid serves
upon the Surety a notice in writing requiring the Surety so to
do.
7.3 If the Landlord shall not require the Surety to take a new lease
of the Property pursuant to paragraph 7.2 above the Surety shall
nevertheless upon demand pay to the Landlord a sum equal to the
rents that would have been payable under this Lease but for the
disclaimer or other event as aforesaid in respect of the period
from the date of the said disclaimer or other event as aforesaid
in respect of the period from the date of the said disclaimer or
other event as aforesaid until the expiration of ninety (90)
days therefrom or until the Property shall have been re-let by
the Landlord whichever shall first occur.
IN WITNESS whereof this deed has been duly executed
17
<PAGE> 19
THE SCHEDULE
Authorised guarantee agreement (clause 3.7)
THIS GUARANTEE BY DEED is made the o day of o 19 o
BETWEEN
(1) [ o ] of [ o ] ("Landlord"); and
(2) [ o ] of [ o ] ("Tenant")
By which it is agreed:
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1 "the Lease" means a lease of o dated o made between [the
Landlord] of the first part o of the second part and o of the
third part
1.2 "the Assignee" means o of o
1.3 "the Assignee's Obligations" means that Assignee's obligations
to pay the rents and all other sums reserved and made payable by
the Lease in the manner and at the respective times appointed
for payment thereof and to observe all the covenants on the part
of the tenant and the conditions and provisions contained in the
Lease.
1.4 "the Guarantee Period" means the period from the date hereof
which ends when the Assignee is released from the Assignee's
Obligations by virtue of Section 5 Landlord and Tenant
(Covenants) Act 1995
2. GUARANTEE
The Guarantor hereby covenants and guarantees with and to the Landlord
as a primary and independent obligation that the Assignee will during
the Guarantee Period comply with the Assignee's Obligations.
18
<PAGE> 20
3. SAVINGS
The Guarantor's liability under the foregoing clause shall not be
affected by:
3.1 any neglect delay or forbearance on the part of the Landlord in
enforcing or giving time to the Assignee to comply with the
Assignee's Obligations
3.2 the transfer by the Landlord of the reversion immediately
expectant on the term granted by the Lease
3.3 the release of any or all of the persons acting as surety for
the Tenant under the Lease.
4. OBLIGATION TO TAKE LEASE
4.1 The Guarantor agrees with the Landlord that if the Lease is
disclaimed and the Landlord within a period of ninety days after
it shall have been notified in writing of such disclaimer serves
on the Guarantor a notice in writing requiring the Guarantor to
take up a new lease in accordance with the terms of this clause
the Guarantor will accept from and execute and deliver to the
Landlord a counterpart of a new lease of the premises demised by
the Lease for a term commencing on the date of such disclaimer
and continuing for the residue then unexpired of the term
granted by the Lease such new lease to be at the cost of the
Guarantor and to be subject to obligations similar to the
Assignee's Obligations and otherwise on similar terms as the
Lease as subsist at the date of but immediately prior to such
disclaimer.
Delivered as a deed on the date of this document
19
<PAGE> 21
EXECUTED as a Deed by )
LOWE AZURE LIMITED )
acting by its director and )
secretary or two directors )
/s/ [Signature Illegible] Director
/s/ [Signature Illegible] Director/Secretary
20
<PAGE> 22
[LETTERHEAD/FACSIMILE COVER SHEET]
2 Manor Court, High Street
Harmondsworth, Middlesex, UB7 0AQ United Kingdom
Telephone: 0181 564 0564 - Fax 0181 564 0501
Date: March 23, 1999
From: John Hawkins
Pages: 2 (Including this one)
TO: DAVE MAGUIRE
FAX NUMBER: 001 978 952 5010
cc:
SUBJECT: Remaining Part of lease
Dave
Please find the remaining part of the lease. I have also sent it to Lyran
Regards
John
<PAGE> 23
EXECUTED as a Deed by )
N-BASE EUROPOE GmbH ) /s/ [Signature Illegible]
acting by its director and )
secretary )
EXECUTED as a Deed by ) /s/ EDMUND GLAZER, CFO
MRV COMMUNICATIONS Inc. )
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 10.38
AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION
STANDARD INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL SINGLE-TENANT LEASE - NET
(DO NOT USE THIS FORM FOR MULTI-TENANT BUILDINGS)
1. BASIC PROVISIONS ("BASIC PROVISIONS")
1.1 PARTIES: This Lease ("Lease"), dated for reference purposes only
December 1, 1998, is made by and between Radar Investments Inc., a California
corporation ("LESSOR") and MRV Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation
("Lessee"), (collectively the "PARTIES," or individually a "PARTY").
1.2 PREMISES: That certain real property, including all improvements
therein or to be provided by Lessor under the terms of this Lease, and commonly
known as 8943-7 Fullbright Ave., Chatsworth, located in the County of Los
Angeles, State of California, and generally described as (describe briefly the
nature of the property and, if applicable, the "PROJECT", if the property is
located within a Project) 17,710 sq. ft., building ("PREMISES"). (See also
Paragraph 2)
1.3 TERM: 5 (five) years and -0- months ("ORIGINAL TERM") commencing
March 1, 1999 ("COMMENCEMENT DATE") and ending February 28, 2004 ("EXPIRATION
DATE"). (See also Paragraph 3)
1.4 EARLY POSSESSION: Lessee is currently in possession ("EARLY
POSSESSION DATE"). (See also Paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3) under an existing lease
1.5 BASE RENT: $12,500.00 per month ("BASE RENT"), payable on the first
(1st) day of each month commencing March 1, 1999 (See also Paragraph 4)
[ ] If this box is checked, there are provisions in this Lease for the Base Rent
to be adjusted.
1.6 BASE RENT PAID UPON EXECUTION: $ None as Base Rent for the period
1.7 SECURITY DEPOSIT: $12,500 ("SECURITY DEPOSIT"). (See also Paragraph
5)
1.8 AGREED USE: Assembly, sale and design of equipment and office
related to Lessee's business. (See also Paragraph 6)
1.9 INSURING PARTY. Lessor is the "INSURING PARTY" unless otherwise
stated herein. (See also Paragraph 8)
1.10 REAL ESTATE BROKERS: (See also Paragraph 15)
(a) REPRESENTATION: The following real estate brokers
(collectively, the "BROKERS") and brokerage relationships exist in this
transaction (check applicable boxes):
[ ] NONE represents Lessor exclusively ("LESSOR'S BROKER");
[ ] NONE represents Lessee exclusively ("LESSEE'S BROKER"); or
[ ] NONE represents both Lessor and Lessee ("DUAL AGENCY").
(b) PAYMENT TO BROKERS: Upon execution and delivery of this
Lease by both Parties, Lessor shall pay to the Broker the fee agreed to in their
separate written agreement (or if there is no such agreement, the sum of 0 % of
the total Base Rent for the brokerage services rendered by said Broker).
1.11 GUARANTOR. The obligations of the Lessee under this Lease are to
be guaranteed by None ("GUARANTOR"). (See also Paragraph 37)
1.12 ADDENDA AND EXHIBITS. Attached hereto is an Addendum or Addenda
consisting of Paragraph 51, all of which constitute a part of this Lease.
2. PREMISES.
2.1 LETTING. Lessor hereby leases to Lessee, and Lessee hereby leases
from Lessor, the Premises, for the term, at the rental, and upon all of the
terms, covenants and conditions set forth in this Lease. Unless otherwise
provided herein, any statement of size set forth in this Lease, or that may have
been used in calculating rental, is an approximation which the Parties agree is
reasonable and the rental based thereon is not subject to revision whether or
not the actual size is more or less. Lessee accept premises in its current
condition.
2.2 CONDITION. Lessor shall deliver the Premises to Lessee broom clean
and free of debris on the Commencement Date or the Early Possession Date,
whichever first occurs ("START DATE"), and, so long as the required service
contracts described in Paragraph 7.1(b) below are obtained by Lessee within
thirty (30) days following the Start Date, warrants that the existing
electrical, plumbing, fire sprinkler, lighting, heating, ventilating and air
conditioning systems ("HVAC"), loading doors, if any, and all other such
elements in the Premises, other than those constructed by Lessee, shall be in
good operating condition on said date and that the structural elements of the
roof, bearing walls and foundation of any buildings on the Premises (the
"BUILDING") shall be free of material defects. If a non-compliance with said
warranty exists as of the Start Date, Lessor shall, as Lessor's sole obligation
with respect to such matter, except as otherwise provided in this Lease,
promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with
specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, rectify same at
Lessor's expense. If, after the Start Date, Lessee does not give Lessor written
notice of any non-compliance with this warranty within: (i) one year as to the
surface of the roof and the structural portions of the roof, foundations and
bearing walls, (ii) six (6) months as to the HVAC systems, (iii) thirty (30)
days as to the remaining sytems and other elements of the Building, correction
of such non-compliance shall be the obligation of Lessee at Lessee's sole cost
and expense.
2.3 COMPLIANCE. Lessor warrants that the improvements on the Premises
comply with all applicable laws, covenants or restrictions of record, building
codes, regulations and ordinances ("APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS") in effect on the
Start Date. Said warranty does not apply to the use to which Lessee will put the
Premises or to any Alterations or Utility Installations (as defined in Paragraph
7.3(a)) made or to be made by Lessee. NOTE: Lessee is responsible for
determining whether or not the zoning is appropriate for Lessee's intended use,
and acknowledges that past uses of the Premises may no longer be allowed. If the
Premises do not comply with said warranty, Lessor shall, except as otherwise
provided, promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth
with specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, rectify the same
at Lessor's expense. If Lessee does not give Lessor written notice of a
non-compliance with this warranty within six (6) months following the Start
Date, correction of that non-compliance shall be the obligation of Lessee at
Lessee's sole cost and expense. If the Applicable Requirements are hereafter
changed (as opposed to being in existence at the Start Date, which is addressed
in Paragraph 6.2(e) below) so as to require during the term of this Lease the
construction of an addition to or an alteration of the Building, the remediation
of any Hazardous Substance, or the reinforcement or other physical modification
of the Building ("CAPITAL EXPENDITURE"), Lessor and Lessee shall allocate the
cost of such work as follows:
PAGE 1
<PAGE> 2
(a) Subject to Paragraph 2.3(c) below, if such Capital Expenditures are
required as a result of the specific and unique use of the Premises by Lessee as
compared with uses by tenants in general, Lessee shall be fully responsible for
the cost thereof, provided, however that if such Capital Expenditure is required
during the last two (2) years of this Lease and the cost thereof exceeds six (6)
months' Base Rent, Lessee may instead terminate this Lease unless Lessor
notifies Lessee, in writing, within ten (10) days after receipt of Lessee's
termination notice that Lessor has elected to pay the difference between the
actual cost thereof and the amount equal to six (6) months' Base Rent. If Lessee
elects termination, Lessee shall immediately cease the use of the Premises which
requires such Capital Expenditure and deliver to Lessor written notice
specifying a termination date at least ninety (90) days thereafter. Such
termination date shall, however, in no event be earlier than the last day that
Lessee could legally utilize the Premises without commencing such Capital
Expenditure.
(b) If such Capital Expenditure is not the result of the specific and
unique use of the Premises by Lessee (such as, governmentally mandated seismic
modifications), then Lessor and Lessee shall allocate the obligation to pay for
such costs pursuant to the provisions of Paragraph 7.1(c); provided, however,
that if such Capital Expenditure is required during the last two years of this
Lease or if Lessor reasonably determines that it is not economically feasible to
pay its share thereof, Lessor shall have the option to terminate this Lease upon
ninety (90) days prior written notice to Lessee unless Lessee notifies Lessor,
in writing, within ten (10) days after receipt of Lessor's termination notice
that Lessee will pay for such Capital Expenditure. If Lessor does not elect to
terminate, and fails to tender its share of any such Capital Expenditure, Lessee
may advance such funds and deduct same, with Interest, from Rent until Lessor's
share of such costs have been fully paid. If Lessee is unable to finance
Lessor's share, or if the balance of the Rent due and payable for the remainder
of this Lease is not sufficient to fully reimburse Lessee on an offset basis,
Lessee shall have the right to terminate this Lease upon thirty (30) days
written notice to Lessor.
(c) Notwithstanding the above, the provisions concerning Capital
Expenditures are intended to apply only to non-voluntary, unexpected, and new
Applicable Requirements. If the Capital Expenditures are instead triggered by
Lessee as a result of an actual or proposed change in use, change in intensity
of use, or modification to the Premises then, and in that event, Lessee shall be
fully responsible for the cost thereof, and Lessee shall not have any right to
terminate this Lease.
2.4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. Lessee acknowledges that: (a) it has been advised
by Lessor and/or Brokers to satisfy itself with respect to the condition of the
Premises (including but not limited to the electrical, HVAC and fire sprinkler
systems, security, environmental aspects, and compliance with Applicable
Requirements), and their suitability for Lessee's intended use, (b) Lessee has
made such investigation as it deems necessary with reference to such matters and
assumes all responsibility therefore as the same relate to its occupancy of the
Premises, and (c) neither Lessor, Lessor's agents, nor any Broker has made any
oral or written representations or warranties with respect to said matters other
than as set forth in this Lease. In addition, Lessor acknowledges that: (a)
Broker has made no representations, promises or warranties concerning Lessee's
ability to honor the Lease or suitability to occupy the Premises, and (b) it is
Lessor's sole responsibility to investigate the financial capability and/or
suitability of all proposed tenants.
2.5 LESSEE AS PRIOR OWNER/OCCUPANT. The warranties made by Lessor in
Paragraph 2 shall be of no force or effect if immediately prior to the Start
Date Lessee was the owner or occupant of the Premises. In such event, Lessee
shall be responsible for any necessary corrective work.
3. TERM.
3.1 TERM. The Commencement Date, Expiration Date and Original Term of
this Lease are as specified in Paragraph 1.3.
3.2 EARLY POSSESSION. If Lessee totally or partially occupies the
Premises prior to the Commencement Date, the obligation to pay Base Rent shall
be abated for the period of such early possession. All other terms of this Lease
(including but not limited to the obligations to pay Real Property Taxes and
insurance premiums and to maintain the Premises) shall, however, be in effect
during such period. Any such early possession shall not affect the Expiration
Date.
3.3 DELAY IN POSSESSION. Lessor agrees to use its best commercially
reasonable efforts to deliver possession of the Premises to Lessee by the
Commencement Date. If, despite said efforts, Lessor is unable to deliver
possession as agreed, Lessor shall not be subject to any liability therefor,
nor shall such failure affect the validity of this Lease. Lessee shall not,
however, be obligated to pay Rent or perform its other obligations until it
receives possession of the Premises. If possession is not delivered within sixty
(60) days after the Commencement Date, Lessee may, at its option, by notice in
writing within ten (10) days after the end of such sixty (60) day period, cancel
this Lease, in which event the Parties shall be discharged from all obligations
hereunder. If such written notice is not received by Lessor within said ten (10)
day period, Lessee's right to cancel shall terminate. Except as otherwise
provided, if possession is not tendered to Lessee by the Start Date and Lessee
does not terminate this Lease, as aforesaid, any period of rent abatement that
Lessee would otherwise have enjoyed shall run from the date of delivery of
possession and continue for a period equal to what Lessee would otherwise have
enjoyed under the terms hereof, but minus any days of delay caused by the acts
or omissions of Lessee. If possession of the Premises is not delivered within
four (4) months after the Commencement Date, this Lease shall terminate unless
other agreements are reached between Lessor and Lessee, in writing.
3.4 LESSEE COMPLIANCE. Lessor shall not be required to tender possession
of the Premises to Lessee until Lessee complies with its obligation to provide
evidence of insurance (Paragraph 8.5). Pending delivery of such evidence, Lessee
shall be required to perform all of its obligations under this Lease from and
after the Start Date, including the payment of Rent, notwithstanding Lessor's
election to withhold possession pending receipt of such evidence of insurance.
Further, if Lessee is required to perform any other conditions prior to or
concurrent with the Start Date, the Start Date shall occur but Lessor may elect
to withhold possession until such conditions are satisfied.
4. RENT.
4.1 RENT DEFINED. All monetary obligations of Lessee to Lessor under
the terms of this Lease (except for the Security Deposit) are deemed to be rent
("RENT").
4.2 PAYMENT. Lessee shall cause payment of Rent to be received by Lessor
in lawful money of the United States, without offset or deduction (except as
specifically permitted in this Lease), on or before the day on which it is due.
Rent for any period during the term hereof which is for less than one (1) full
calendar month shall be prorated based upon the actual number of days of said
month. Payment of Rent shall be made to Lessor at its address stated herein or
to such other persons or place as Lessor may from time to time designate in
writing. Acceptance of a payment which is less than the amount then due shall
not be a waiver of Lessor's rights to the balance of such Rent, regardless of
Lessor's endorsement of any check so stating.
5. SECURITY DEPOSIT. Lessee shall deposit with Lessor upon execution hereof the
Security Deposit as security for Lessee's faithful performance of its
obligations under this Lease. If Lessee fails to pay Rent, or otherwise Defaults
under this Lease, Lessor may use, apply or retain all or any portion of said
Security Deposit for the payment of any amount due Lessor or to reimburse or
compensate Lessor for any liability, expense, loss or damage which Lessor may
suffer or incur by reason thereof. If Lessor uses or applies all or any portion
of said Security Deposit, Lessee shall within ten (10) days after written
request therefore deposit monies with Lessor sufficient to restore said Security
Deposit to the full amount required by this Lease. If the Base Rent increases
during the term of this Lease, Lessee shall, upon written request from Lessor,
deposit additional moneys with Lessor so that the total amount of the Security
Deposit shall at all times bear the same proportion to the increased Base Rent
as the initial Security Deposit bore to the initial Base Rent. Should the Agreed
Use be amended to accommodate a material change in the business of Lessee or to
accommodate a sublessee or assignee, Lessor shall have the right to increase the
Security Deposit to the extent necessary, in Lessor's reasonable judgment, to
account for any increased wear and tear that the Premises may suffer as a result
thereof. If a change in control of Lessee occurs during this Lease and following
such change the financial condition of Lessee is, in Lessor's reasonable
judgment. significantly reduced, Lessee shall deposit such additional monies
with Lessor as shall be sufficient to cause the Security Deposit to be at a
commercially reasonable level based on said change in financial condition.
Lessor shall not be required to keep the Security Deposit separate from its
general accounts. Within fourteen (14) days after the expiration or termination
of this Lease, if Lessor elects to apply the Security Deposit only to unpaid
Rent, and otherwise within thirty (30) days after the Premises have been vacated
pursuant to Paragraph 7.4(c) below, Lessor shall return that portion of the
Security Deposit not used or applied by Lessor. No part of the Security Deposit
shall be considered to be held in trust, to bear interest or to be prepayment
for any monies to be paid by Lessee under this Lease.
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6. USE.
6.1 USE. Lessee shall use and occupy the Premises only for the Agreed
Use, or any other legal use which is reasonably comparable thereto, and for no
other purpose. Lessee shall not use or permit the use of the Premises in a
manner that is unlawful, creates damage, waste or a nuisance, or that disturbs
owners and/or occupants of, or causes damage to neighboring properties. Lessor
shall not unreasonably withhold or delay its consent to any written request for
a modification of the Agreed Use, so long as the same will not impair the
structural integrity of the improvements on the Premises or the mechanical or
electrical systems therein, is not significantly more burdensome to the
Premises. If Lessor elects to withhold consent, Lessor shall within five (5)
business days after such request give written notification of same, which notice
shall include an explanation of Lessor's objections to the change in use.
6.2 HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES.
(a) REPORTABLE USES REQUIRE CONSENT. The term "HAZARDOUS
SUBSTANCE" as used in this Lease shall mean any product, substance, or waste
whose presence, use, manufacture, disposal, transportation, or release, either
by itself or in combination with other materials expected to be on the Premises,
is either: (i) potentially injurious to the public health, safety or welfare,
the environment or the Premises, (ii) regulated or monitored by any governmental
authority, or (iii) a basis for potential liability of Lessor to any
governmental agency or third party under any applicable statute or common law
theory. Hazardous Substances shall include, but not be limited to, hydrocarbons,
petroleum, gasoline, and/or crude oil or any products, by-products or fractions
thereof. Lessee shall not engage in any activity in or on the Premises which
constitutes a Reportable Use of Hazardous Substances without the express prior
written consent of Lessor and timely compliance (at Lessee's expense) with all
Applicable Requirements. "REPORTABLE USE"shall mean (i) the installation or use
of any above or below ground storage tank, (ii) the generation, possession,
storage, use, transportation, or disposal of a Hazardous Substance that requires
a permit from, or with respect to which a report, notice, registration or
business plan is required to be filed with, any governmental authority, and/or
(iii) the presence at the Premises of a Hazardous Substance with respect to
which any Applicable Requirements requires that a notice be given to persons
entering or occupying the Premises or neighboring properties. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, Lessee may use any ordinary and customary materials reasonably
required to be used in the normal course of the Agreed Use, so long as such use
is in compliance with all Applicable Requirements, is not a Reportable Use, and
does not expose the Premises or neighboring property to any meaningful risk of
contamination or damage or expose Lessor to any liability therefore. In
addition, Lessor may condition its consent to any Reportable Use upon receiving
such additional assurances as Lessor reasonably deems necessary to protect
itself, the public, the Premises and/or the environment against damage,
contamination, injury and/or liability, including, but not limited to, the
installation (and removal on or before Lease expiration or termination) of
protective modifications (such as concrete encasements) and/or increasing the
Security Deposit.
(b) DUTY TO INFORM LESSOR. If Lessee knows, or has reasonable
cause to believe, that a Hazardous Substance has come to be located in, on,
under or about the Premises, other than as previously consented to by Lessor,
Lessee shall immediately give written notice of such fact to Lessor, and provide
Lessor with a copy of any report, notice, claim or other documentation which it
has concerning the presence of such Hazardous Substance.
(c) LESSEE REMEDIATION. Lessee shall not cause or permit any
Hazardous Substance to be spilled or released in, on, under, or about the
Premises (including through the plumbing or sanitary sewer system) and shall
promptly, at Lessee's expense, take all investigatory and/or remedial action
reasonably recommended, whether or not formally ordered or required, for the
cleanup of any contamination of, and for the maintenance, security and/or
monitoring of the Premises or neighboring properties, that was caused or
materially contributed to by Lessee, or pertaining to or involving any Hazardous
Substance brought onto the Premises during the term of this Lease, by or for
Lessee, or any third party.
(d) LESSEE INDEMNIFICATION. Lessee shall indemnify, defend and
hold Lessor, its agents, employees, lenders and ground lessor, if any, harmless
from and against any and all loss of rents and/or damages, liabilities,
judgments, claims, expenses, penalties, and attorneys' and consultants' fees
arising out of or involving any Hazardous Substance brought onto the Premises by
or for Lessee, or any third party (provided, however, that Lessee shall have no
liability under this Lease with respect to underground migration of any
Hazardous Substance under the Premises from adjacent properties). Lessee's
obligations shall include, but not be limited to, the effects of any
contamination or injury to person, property or the environment created or
suffered by Lessee, and the cost of investigation, removal, remediation,
restoration and/or abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of
this Lease. NO TERMINATION, CANCELLATION OR RELEASE AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO BY
LESSOR AND LESSEE SHALL RELEASE LESSEE FROM ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS LEASE
WITH RESPECT TO HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, UNLESS SPECIFICALLY SO AGREED BY LESSOR IN
WRITING AT THE TIME OF SUCH AGREEMENT.
(e) LESSOR INDEMNIFICATION. Lessor and its successors and
assigns shall indemnify, defend, reimburse and hold Lessee, its employees and
lenders, harmless from and against any and all environmental damages, including
the cost of remediation, which existed as a result of Hazardous Substances on
the Premises prior to the Start Date or which are caused by the gross negligence
or willful misconduct of Lessor, its agents or employees. Lessor's obligations,
as and when required by the Applicable Requirements, shall include, but not be
limited to, the cost of investigation, removal, remediation, restoration and/or
abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.
(f) INVESTIGATIONS AND REMEDIATIONS. Lessor shall retain the
responsibility and pay for any investigations or remediation measures required
by governmental entities having jurisdiction with respect to the existence of
Hazardous Substances on the Premises prior to the Start Date, unless such
remediation measure is required as a result of Lessee's use (including
"Alterations", as defined in paragraph 7.3(a) below) of the Premises, in which
event Lessee shall be responsible for such payment. Lessee shall cooperate fully
in any such activities at the request of Lessor, including allowing Lessor and
Lessor's agents to have reasonable access to the Premises at reasonable times in
order to carry out Lessor's investigative and remedial responsibilities.
(g) LESSOR TERMINATION OPTION. If a Hazardous Substance
Condition occurs during the term of this Lease, unless Lessee is legally
responsible therefore (in which case Lessee shall make the investigation and
remediation thereof required by the Applicable Requirements and this Lease shall
continue in full force and effect, but subject to Lessor's rights under
Paragraph 6.2(d) and Paragraph 13), Lessor may, at Lessor's option, either (i)
investigate and remediate such Hazardous Substance Condition, if required, as
soon as reasonably possible at Lessor's expense, in which event this Lease shall
continue in full force and effect, or (ii) if the estimated cost to remediate
such condition exceeds twelve (12) times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000,
whichever is greater, give written notice to Lessee, within thirty (30) days
after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such Hazardous
Substance Condition, of Lessor's desire to terminate this Lease as of the date
sixty (60) days following the date of such notice. In the event Lessor elects to
give a termination notice, Lessee may, within ten (10) days thereafter, give
written notice to Lessor of Lessee's commitment to pay the amount by which the
cost of the remediation of such Hazardous Substance Condition exceeds an amount
equal to twelve (12) times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000, whichever is
greater. Lessee shall provide Lessor with said funds or satisfactory assurance
thereof within thirty (30) days following such commitment. In such event, this
Lease shall continue in full force and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make
such remediation as soon as reasonably possible after the required funds are
available. If Lessee does not give such notice and provide the required funds or
assurance thereof within the time provided, this Lease shall terminate as of the
date specified in Lessor's notice of termination.
6.3 LESSEE'S COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS. Except as
otherwise provided in this Lease, Lessee shall, at Lessee's sole expense, fully,
diligently and in a timely manner, materially comply with all Applicable
Requirements, the requirements of any applicable fire insurance underwriter or
rating bureau, and the recommendations of Lessor's engineers and/or consultants
which relate in any manner to the Premises, without regard to whether said
requirements are now in effect or become effective after the Start Date. Lessee
shall, within ten (10) days after receipt of Lessor's written request, provide
Lessor with copies of all permits and other documents, and other information
evidencing Lessee's compliance with any Applicable Requirements specified by
Lessor, and shall immediately upon receipt, notify Lessor in writing (with
copies of any documents involved) of any threatened or actual claim, notice,
citation, warning, complaint or report pertaining to or involving the failure of
Lessee or the Premises to comply with any Applicable Requirements.
6.4 INSPECTION; COMPLIANCE. Lessor and Lessor's "Lender" (as defined in
Paragraph 30 below) and consultants shall have the right to enter into Premises
at any time, in the case of an emergency, and otherwise at reasonable times, for
the purpose of inspecting the condition of the Premises and for verifying
compliance by Lessee with this Lease. The cost of any such inspections shall be
paid by Lessor, unless a violation of Applicable Requirements, or a
contamination is found to exist or be imminent, or the inspection is requested
or ordered by a governmental authority. In such case, Lessee shall upon request
reimburse Lessor for the cost of such inspections, so long as such inspection is
reasonably related to the violation or contamination.
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7. MAINTENANCE; REPAIRS, UTILITY INSTALLATIONS; TRADE FIXTURES AND ALTERATIONS.
7.1 LESSEE'S OBLIGATIONS.
(a) IN GENERAL. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph 2.2
(Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 6.3 (Lessee's Compliance with Applicable
Requirements), 7.2 (Lessor's Obligations), 9 (Damage or Destruction), and 14
(Condemnation), Lessee shall, at Lessee's sole expense, keep the Premises,
Utility Installations, and Alterations in good order, condition and repair
(whether or not the portion of the Premises requiring repairs, or the means of
repairing the same, are reasonably or readily accessible to Lessee, and whether
or not the need for such repairs occurs as a result of Lessee's use, any prior
use, the elements or the age of such portion of the Premises), including, but
not limited to, all equipment or facilities, such as plumbing, heating,
ventilating, air-conditioning, electrical, lighting facilities, boilers,
pressure vessels, fire protection system, fixtures, walls (interior and
exterior), foundations, ceilings, roofs, floors, windows, doors, plate glass,
skylights, landscaping, driveways, parking lots, fences, retaining walls, signs,
sidewalks and parkways located in, on, or adjacent to the Premises. Lessee, in
keeping the Premises in good order, condition and repair, shall exercise and
perform good maintenance practices, specifically including the procurement and
maintenance of the service contracts required by Paragraph 7.1(b) below.
Lessee's obligations shall include restorations, replacements or renewals when
necessary to keep the Premises and all improvements thereon or a part thereof in
good order, condition and state of repair. Lessee shall, during the term of this
Lease, keep the exterior appearance of the Building in a first-class condition
consistent with the exterior appearance of other similar facilities of
comparable age and size in the vicinity, including, when necessary, the exterior
repainting of the Building. See Paragraph 50 attached.
(b) SERVICE CONTRACTS. Lessee shall, at Lessee's sole expense,
procure and maintain contracts, with copies to Lessor, in customary form and
substance for, and with contractors specializing and experienced in the
maintenance of the following equipment and improvements, if any, if and when
installed on the Premises: (i) HVAC equipment, (ii) boiler, and pressure
vessels, (iii) fire extinguishing systems, including firealarm and/or smoke
detection, (iv) landscaping and irrigation systems, (v) driveways and parking
lots, (vi) clarifiers (vii) basic utility feed to the perimeter of the
Building, and (viii) any other equipment, if reasonably required by Lessor.
(c) REPLACEMENT. Subject to Lessee's indemnification of Lessor
as set forth in Paragraph 8.7 below, and without relieving Lessee of liability
resulting from Lessee's failure to exercise and perform good maintenance
practices, if the Basic Elements described in Paragraph 7.1 (b) cannot be
repaired other than at a cost which is in excess of 50% of the cost of replacing
such Basic Elements, then such Basic Elements shall be replaced by Lessor, and
the cost thereof shall be prorated between the Parties and Lessee shall only be
obligated to pay, each month during the remainder of the term of this Lease, on
the date on which Base Rent is due, an amount equal to the product of
multiplying the cost of such replacement by a fraction, the numerator of which
is one, and the denominator of which is the number of months of the useful life
of such replacement as such useful life is specified pursuant to Federal-income
tax regulations or guidelines for depreciation thereof (including interest on
the unamortized balance as is then commercially reasonable in the judgment of
Lessor's accountants), with Lessee reserving the right to prepay its obligation
at any time.
7.2 LESSOR'S OBLIGATIONS. Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 2.2
(Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 9 (Damage or Destruction), Paragraph 50 and 14
(Condemnation), it is intended by the Parties hereto that Lessor have no
obligation, in any manner whatsoever, to repair and maintain the Premises, or
the equipment therein, all of which obligations are intended to be that of the
Lessee. It is the intention of the Parties that the terms of this Lease govern
the respective obligations of the Parties as to maintenance and repair of the
Premises, and they expressly waive the benefit of any statute now or hereafter
in effect to the extent it is inconsistent with the terms of this Lease.
7.3 UTILITY INSTALLATIONS; TRADE FIXTURES; ALTERATIONS.
(a) DEFINITIONS; CONSENT REQUIRED. The term "UTILITY
INSTALLATIONS" refers to all floor and window coverings, air lines, power
panels, electrical distribution, security and fire protection systems,
communication systems, lighting fixtures, HVAC equipment, plumbing, and fencing
in or on the Premises. The term "TRADE FIXTURES" shall mean Lessee's machinery
and equipment that can be removed without doing material damage to the Premises.
The term "ALTERATIONS" shall mean any modification of the improvements, other
than Utility Installations or Trade Fixtures, whether by addition or deletion.
"LESSEE OWNED ALTERATIONS AND/OR UTILITY INSTALLATIONS" are defined as
Alterations and/or Utility Installations made by Lessee that are not yet owned
by Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 7.4(a). Lessee shall not make any Alterations or
Utility Installations to the Premises without Lessor's prior written consent.
Lessee may, however, make non-structural Utility Installations to the interior
of the Premises (excluding the roof) without such consent but upon notice to
Lessor, as long as they are not visible from the outside, do not involve
puncturing, relocating or removing the roof or any existing walls, and the
cumulative cost thereof during this Lease as extended does not exceed $50,000 in
the aggregate or $10,000 in any one year.
(b) CONSENT. Any Alterations or Utility Installations that
Lessee shall desire to make and which require the consent of the Lessor shall be
presented to Lessor in written form with detailed plans. Consent shall be deemed
conditioned upon Lessee's: (i) acquiring all applicable governmental permits,
(ii) furnishing Lessor with copies of both the permits and the plans and
specifications prior to commencement of the work, and (iii) compliance with all
conditions of said permits and other Applicable Requirements in a prompt and
expeditious manner. Any Alterations or Utility Installations shall be performed
in a workmanlike manner with good and sufficient materials. Lessee shall
promptly upon completion furnish Lessor with as-built plans and specifications.
For work which costs an amount equal to the greater of one month's Base Rent, or
$10,000, Lessor may condition its consent upon Lessee providing a lien and
completion bond in an amount equal to one and one-half times the estimated cost
of such Alteration or Utility Installation and/or upon Lessee's posting an
additional Security Deposit with Lessor.
(c) INDEMNIFICATION. Lessee shall pay, when due, all claims for
labor or materials furnished or alleged to have been furnished to or for Lessee
at or for use on the Premises, which claims are or may be secured by any
mechanic's or materialmen's lien against the Premises or any interest therein.
Lessee shall give Lessor not less than ten (10) days' notice prior to the
commencement of any work in, on or about the Premises, and Lessor shall have the
right to post notices of non-responsibility. If Lessee shall contest the
validity of any such lien, claim or demand, then Lessee shall, at its sole
expense defend and protect itself, Lessor and the Premises against the same and
shall pay and satisfy any such adverse judgment that may be rendered thereon
before the enforcement thereof. If Lessor shall require, Lessee shall furnish a
surety bond in an amount equal to one and one-half times the amount of such
contested lien, claim or demand, indemnifying Lessor against liability for the
same. If Lessor elects to participate in any such action, Lessee shall pay
Lessor's attorneys' fees and costs.
7.4 OWNERSHIP; REMOVAL; SURRENDER; AND RESTORATION.
(a) OWNERSHIP. Subject to Lessor's right to require removal or
elect ownership as hereinafter provided, all Alterations and Utility
Installations made by Lessee shall be the property of Lessee, but considered a
part of the Premises. Lessor may, at any time, elect in writing to be the owner
of all or any specified part of the Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility
Installations. Unless otherwise instructed per Paragraph 7.4(b) hereof, all
Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations shall, at the expiration or
termination of this Lease, become the property of Lessor and be surrendered by
Lessee with the Premises.
(b) REMOVAL. By delivery to Lessee of written notice from Lessor
not earlier than ninety (90) and not later than thirty (30) days prior to the
end of the term of this Lease, Lessor may require that any or all Lessee Owned
Alterations or Utility Installations be removed by the expiration or termination
of this Lease. Lessor may require the removal at any time of all or any part of
any Lessee Owned Alterations or Utility Installations made without the required
consent.
(c) SURRENDER/RESTORATION. Lessee shall surrender the Premises
by the Expiration Date or any earlier termination date, with all of the
improvements, parts and surfaces thereof broom clean and free of debris, and in
good operating order, condition and state of repair, ordinary wear and tear
excepted. "Ordinary wear and tear" shall not include any damage or deterioration
that would have been prevented by good maintenance practice. Lessee shall repair
any damage occasioned by the installation, maintenance or removal of Trade
Fixtures, Lessee Owned Alterations and/or Utility Installations, furnishings,
and equipment as well as the removal of any storage tank installed by or for
Lessee, and the removal, replacement, or remediation of any soil, material or
groundwater contaminated by Lessee. Trade Fixtures shall remain the property of
Lessee and shall be removed by Lessee. The failure by Lessee to timely vacate
the Premises pursuant to this Paragraph 7.4(c) without the express written
consent of Lessor shall constitute a holdover under the provisions of Paragraph
26 below.
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8. INSURANCE; INDEMNITY.
8.1 PAYMENT FOR INSURANCE. Lessee shall pay for all insurance required
under Paragraph 8 except to the extent of the cost attributable to liability
insurance carried by Lessor under Paragraph 8.2(b) in excess of $2,000,000 per
occurrence. Premiums for policy periods commencing prior to or extending beyond
the Lease term shall be prorated to correspond to the Lease term. Payment shall
be made by Lessee to Lessor within ten (10) days following receipt of an
invoice.
8.2 LIABILITY INSURANCE.
(a) CARRIED BY LESSEE. Lessee shall obtain and keep in force a
Commercial General Liability Policy of Insurance protecting Lessee and Lessor
against claims for bodily injury, personal injury and property damage based upon
or arising out of the ownership, use, occupancy or maintenance of the Premises
and all areas appurtenant thereto. Such insurance shall be on an occurrence
basis providing single limit coverage in an amount not less than $2,000,000 per
occurrence with an "ADDITIONAL INSURED-MANAGERS OR LESSORS OF PREMISES
ENDORSEMENT" and contain the "AMENDMENT OF THE POLLUTION EXCLUSION ENDORSEMENT"
for damage caused by heat, smoke or fumes from a hostile fire. The Policy shall
not contain any intra-insured exclusions as between insured persons or
organizations, but shall include coverage for liability assumed under this Lease
as an "insured contract" for the performance of Lessee's indemnity obligations
under this Lease. The limits of said insurance shall not, however, limit the
liability of Lessee nor relieve Lessee of any obligation hereunder. All
insurance carried by Lessee shall be primary to and not contributory with any
similar insurance carried by Lessor, whose insurance shall be considered excess
insurance only.
(b) CARRIED BY LESSOR. Lessor shall maintain liability insurance
as described in Paragraph 8.2(a), in addition to, and not in lieu of, the
insurance required to be maintained by Lessee. Lessee shall not be named as an
additional insured therein.
8.3 PROPERTY INSURANCE - BUILDING, IMPROVEMENTS AND RENTAL VALUE.
(a) BUILDING AND IMPROVEMENTS. The Insuring Party shall obtain
and keep in force a policy or policies in the name of Lessor, with loss payable
to Lessor, any groundlessor, and to any Lender(s) insuring loss or damage to the
Premises. The amount of such insurance shall be equal to the full replacement
cost of the Premises, as the same shall exist from time to time, or the amount
required by any Lenders, but in no event more than the commercially reasonable
and available insurable value thereof. If Lessor is the Insuring Party, however,
Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee's
personal property shall be insured by Lessee under Paragraph 8.4 rather than by
Lessor. If the coverage is available and commercially appropriate, such policy
or policies shall insure against all risks of direct physical loss or damage
(except the perils of flood and/or earthquake unless required by a Lender),
including coverage for debris removal and the enforcement of any Applicable
Requirements requiring the upgrading, demolition, reconstruction or replacement
of any portion of the Premises as the result of a covered loss. Said policy or
policies shall also contain an agreed valuation provision in lieu of any
coinsurance clause, waiver of subrogation, and inflation guard protection
causing an increase in the annual property insurance coverage amount by a factor
of not less than the adjusted U.S. Department of Labor Consumer Price Index for
All Urban Consumers for the city nearest to where the Premises are located. If
such insurance coverage has a deductible clause, the deductible amount shall not
exceed $1,000 per occurrence, and Lessee shall be liable for such deductible
amount in the event of an Insured Loss.
(b) Rental Value. The Insuring Party shall obtain and keep in
force a policy or policies in the name of Lessor with loss payable to Lessor and
any Lender, insuring the loss of the full Rent for one (1) year. Said insurance
shall provide that in the event the Lease is terminated by reason of an insured
loss, the period of indemnity for such coverage shall be extended beyond the
date of the completion of repairs or replacement of the Premises, to provide for
one full year's loss of Rent from the date of any such loss. Said insurance
shall contain an agreed valuation provision in lieu of any coinsurance clause,
and the amount of coverage shall be adjusted annually to reflect the projected
Rent otherwise payable by Lessee, for the next twelve (12) month period. Lessee
shall be liable for any deductible amount in the event of such loss.
(c) ADJACENT PREMISES. If the Premises are part of a larger
building, or of a group of buildings owned by Lessor which are adjacent to the
Premises, the Lessee shall pay for any increase in the premiums for the property
insurance of such building or buildings if said increase is caused by Lessee's
acts, omissions, use or occupancy of the Premises.
8.4 LESSEE'S PROPERTY/BUSINESS INTERRUPTION INSURANCE.
(a) PROPERTY DAMAGE. Lessee shall obtain and maintain insurance
coverage on all of Lessee's personal property, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee Owned
Alterations and Utility Installations. Such insurance shall be full replacement
cost coverage with a deductible of not to exceed $1,000 per occurrence. The
proceeds from any such insurance shall be used by Lessee for the replacement of
personal property, Trade Fixtures and Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility
Installations. Lessee shall provide Lessor with written evidence that such
insurance is in force.
(b) BUSINESS INTERRUPTION. Lessee shall obtain and maintain loss
of income and extra expense insurance in amounts as will reimburse Lessee for
direct or indirect loss of earnings attributable to all perils commonly insured
against by prudent lessees in the business of Lessee or attributable to
prevention of access to the Premises as a result of such perils.
(c) NO REPRESENTATION OF ADEQUATE COVERAGE. Lessor makes no
representation that the limits or forms of coverage of insurance specified
herein are adequate to cover Lessee's property, business operations or
obligations under this Lease.
8.5 INSURANCE POLICIES. Insurance required herein shall be by companies
duly licensed or admitted to transact business in the state where the Premises
are located, and maintaining during the policy term a "General Policyholders
Rating" of at least B+, V, as set forth in the most current issue of "Best's
Insurance Guide", or such other rating as may be required by a Lender. Lessee
shall not do or permit to be done anything which invalidates the required
insurance policies. Lessee shall, prior to the Start Date, deliver to Lessor
certified copies of policies of such insurance or certificates evidencing the
existence and amounts of the required insurance. No such policy shall be
cancelable or subject to modification except after thirty (30) days prior
written notice to Lessor. Lessee shall, at least thirty (30) days prior to the
expiration of such policies, furnish Lessor with evidence of renewals or
"insurance binders" evidencing renewal thereof, or Lessor may order such
insurance and charge the cost thereof to Lessee, which amount shall be payable
by Lessee to Lessor upon demand. Such policies shall be for a term of at least
one year, or the length of the remaining term of this Lease, whichever is less.
If either Party shall fail to procure and maintain the insurance required to be
carried by it, the other Party may, but shall not be required to, procure and
maintain the same.
8.6 WAIVER OF SUBROGATION. Without affecting any other rights or
remedies, Lessee and Lessor each hereby release and relieve the other, and waive
their entire right to recover damages against the other, for loss of or damage
to its property arising out of or incident to the perils required to be insured
against herein. The effect of such releases and waivers is not limited by the
amount of insurance carried or required, or by any deductibles applicable
hereto. The Parties agree to have their respective property damage insurance
carriers waive any right to subrogation that such companies may have against
Lessor or Lessee, as the case may be, so long as the insurance is not
invalidated thereby.
8.7 INDEMNITY. Except for Lessor's gross negligence or willful
misconduct, Lessee shall indemnity, protect, defend and hold harmless the
Premises, Lessor and its agents, Lessor's master or ground lessor, partners and
Lenders, from and against any and all claims, loss of rents and/or damages,
liens, judgments, penalties, attorneys' and consultants' fees, expenses and/or
liabilities arising out of, involving, or in connection with, the use and/or
occupancy of the Premises by Lessee. If any action or proceeding is brought
against Lessor by reason of any of the foregoing matters, Lessee shall upon
notice defend the same at Lessee's expense by counsel reasonably satisfactory to
Lessor and Lessor shall cooperate with Lessee in such defense. Lessor need not
have first paid any such claim in order to be defended or indemnified.
8.8 EXEMPTION OF LESSOR FROM LIABILITY. Lessor shall not be liable for
injury or damage to the person or goods, wares, merchandise or other property of
Lessee, Lessee's employees, contractors, invitees, customers, or any other
person in or about the Premises, whether such damage or injury is caused by or
results from fire, steam, electricity, gas, water or rain, or from the breakage,
leakage, obstruction or other defects of pipes, fire sprinklers, wires,
appliances, plumbing, HVAC or lighting fixtures, or from any other cause,
whether the said injury or damage results from conditions arising upon the
Premises or upon other portions of the Building of which the Premises are a
part, or from other sources or places. Lessor shall not be liable for any
damages arising from any act or neglect of any other tenant of Lessor.
Notwithstanding Lessor's negligence or breach of this Lease, Lessor shall under
no circumstances be liable for injury to Lessee's business or for any loss of
income or profit therefrom.
9. DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION.
9.1 DEFINITIONS.
(a) "PREMISES PARTIAL DAMAGE" shall mean damage or destruction
to the improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and
Utility Installations, which can reasonably be repaired in six (6) months or
less from the date of the damage or destruction.
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Lessor shall notify Lessee in writing within thirty (30) days from the date of
the damage or destruction as to whether or not the damage is Partial or Total.
(b) "PREMISES TOTAL DESTRUCTION" shall mean damage or
destruction to the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility
Installations and Trade Fixtures, which cannot reasonably be repaired in six (6)
months or less from the date of the damage or destruction. Lessor shall notify
Lessee in writing within thirty (30) days from the date of the damage or
destruction as to whether or not the damage is Partial or Total.
(c) "INSURED LOSS" shall mean damage or destruction to
improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility
Installations and Trade Fixtures, which was caused by an event required to be
covered by the insurance described in Paragraph 8.3(a), irrespective of any
deductible amounts or coverage limits involved.
(d) "REPLACEMENT COST" shall mean the cost to repair or rebuild
the improvements owned by Lessor at the time of the occurrence to their
condition existing immediately prior thereto, including demolition, debris
removal and upgrading required by the operation of Applicable Requirements, and
without deduction for depreciation.
(e) "HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE CONDITION" shall mean the occurrence or
discovery of a condition involving the presence of, or a contamination by, a
Hazardous Substance as defined in Paragraph 6.2(a), in, on, or under the
Premises.
9.2 PARTIAL DAMAGE-INSURED LOSS. If a Premises Partial Damage that is an
Insured Loss occurs, then Lessor shall, at Lessor's expense, repair such damage
(but not Lessee's Trade Fixtures or Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility
Installations) as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall continue in
full force and effect; provided, however, that Lessee shall, at Lessor's
election, make the repair of any damage or destruction the total cost to repair
of which is $10,000 or less, and, in such event, Lessor shall make any
applicable insurance proceeds available to Lessee on a reasonable basis for that
purpose. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the required insurance was not in
force or the insurance proceeds are not sufficient to effect such repair, the
Insuring Party shall promptly contribute the shortage in proceeds (except as to
the deductible which is Lessee's responsibility) as and when required to
complete said repairs. In the event, however, such shortage was due to the fact
that, by reason of the unique nature of the improvements, full replacement cost
insurance coverage was not commercially reasonable and available, Lessor shall
have no obligation to pay for the shortage in insurance proceeds or to fully
restore the unique aspects of the Premises unless Lessee provides Lessor with
the funds to cover same, or adequate assurance thereof, within ten (10) days
following receipt of written notice of such shortage and request therefore. If
Lessor receives said funds or adequate assurance thereof within said ten (10)
day period, the party responsible for making the repairs shall complete them as
soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall remain in full force and
effect. If such funds or assurance are not received, Lessor may nevertheless
elect by written notice to Lessee within ten (10) days thereafter to: (i) make
such restoration and repair as is commercially reasonable with Lessor paying any
shortage in proceeds, in which case this Lease shall remain in full force and
effect, or have this Lease terminate thirty (30) days thereafter. Lessee shall
not be entitled to reimbursement of any funds contributed by Lessee to repair
any such damage or destruction. Premises Partial Damage due to flood or
earthquake shall be subject to Paragraph 9.3, notwithstanding that there may be
some insurance coverage, but the net proceeds of any such insurance shall be
made available for the repairs if made by either Party.
9.3 PARTIAL DAMAGE - UNINSURED LOSS. If a Premises Partial Damage that
is not an Insured Loss occurs, unless caused by a negligent or willful act of
Lessee (in which event Lessee shall make the repairs at Lessee's expense),
Lessor may either: (i) repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible at
Lessor's expense, in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and
effect, or (4) terminate this Lease by giving written notice to Lessee within
thirty (30) days after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such
damage. Such termination shall be effective sixty (60) days following the date
of such notice. In the event Lessor elects to terminate this Lease, Lessee shall
have the right within ten (10) days after receipt of the termination notice to
give written notice to Lessor of Lessee's commitment to pay for the repair of
such damage without reimbursement from Lessor. Lessee shall provide Lessor with
said funds or satisfactory assurance thereof within thirty (30) days after
making such commitment. In such event this Lease shall continue in full force
and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make such repairs as soon as reasonably
possible after the required funds are available. If Lessee does not make the
required commitment, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in the
termination notice.
9.4 TOTAL DESTRUCTION. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, if a
Premises Total Destruction occurs, this Lease shall terminate sixty (60) days
following such Destruction. If the damage or destruction was caused by the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of Lessee, Lessor shall have the right to
recover Lessor's damages from Lessee, except as provided in Paragraph 8.6.
9.5 DAMAGE NEAR END OF TERM. If at any time during the last six (6)
months of this Lease there is damage for which the cost to repair exceeds one
(1) month's Base Rent, whether or not an Insured Loss, Lessor may terminate this
Lease effective sixty (60) days following the date of occurrence of such damage
by giving a written termination notice to Lessee within thirty (30) days after
the date of occurrence of such damage. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Lessee
at that time has an exercisable option to extend this Lease or to purchase the
Premises, then Lessee may preserve this Lease by, (a) exercising such option and
(b) providing Lessor with any shortage in insurance proceeds (or adequate
assurance thereof) needed to make the repairs on or before the earlier of (i)
the date which is ten days after Lessee's receipt of Lessor's written notice
purporting to terminate this Lease, or (ii) the day prior to the date upon which
such option expires. If Lessee duly exercises such option during such period and
provides Lessor with funds (or adequate assurance thereof) to cover any shortage
in insurance proceeds, Lessor shall, at Lessor's commercially reasonable
expense, repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall
continue in full force and effect. If Lessee fails to exercise such option and
provide such funds or assurance during such period, then this Lease shall
terminate on the date specified in the termination notice and Lessee's option
shall be extinguished.
9.6 ABATEMENT OF RENT; LESSEE'S REMEDIES.
(a) ABATEMENT. In the event of Premises Partial Damage or
Premises Total Destruction or a Hazardous Substance Condition for which Lessee
is not responsible under this Lease, the Rent payable by Lessee for the period
required for the repair, remediation or restoration of such damage shall be
abated in proportion to the degree to which Lessee's use of the Premises is
impaired, but not to exceed the proceeds received from the Rental Value
insurance. All other obligations of Lessee hereunder shall be performed by
Lessee, and Lessor shall have no liability for any such damage, destruction,
remediation, repair or restoration except as provided herein.
(b) REMEDIES. If Lessor shall be obligated to repair or restore
the Premises and does not commence, in a substantial and meaningful way, such
repair or restoration within ninety (90) days after such obligation shall
accrue, Lessee may, at any time prior to the commencement of such repair or
restoration, give written notice to Lessor and to any Lenders of which Lessee
has actual notice, of Lessee's election to terminate this Lease on a date not
less than sixty (60) days following the giving of such notice. If Lessee gives
such notice and such repair or restoration is not commenced within thirty (30)
days thereafter, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in said
notice. If the repair or restoration is commenced within said thirty (30) days,
this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. "Commence" shall mean either
the unconditional authorization of the preparation of the required plans, or the
beginning of the actual work an the Premises, whichever first occurs.
9.7 TERMINATION-ADVANCE PAYMENTS. Upon termination of this Lease
pursuant to Paragraph 6.2(g) or Paragraph 9, an equitable adjustment shall be
made concerning advance Base Rent and any other advance payments made by Lessee
to Lessor. Lessor shall, in addition, return to Lessee so much of Lessee's
Security Deposit as has not been, or is not then required to be, used by Lessor.
9.8 WAIVE STATUTES. Lessor and Lessee agree that the terms of this Lease
shall govern the effect of any damage to or destruction of the Premises with
respect to the termination of this Lease and hereby waive the provisions of any
present or future statute to the extent inconsistent herewith.
10. REAL PROPERTY TAXES.
10.1 DEFINITION OF "REAL PROPERTY TAXES." As used herein, the term "REAL
PROPERTY TAXES" shall include any form of assessment; real estate, general,
special, ordinary or extraordinary, or rental levy or tax (other than
inheritance, personal income or estate taxes); improvement bond; and/or license
fee imposed upon or levied against any legal or equitable interest of Lessor in
the Premises, Lessor's right to other income therefrom, and/or Lessor's business
of leasing, by any authority having the direct or indirect power to tax and
where the funds are generated
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with reference to the Building address and where the proceeds so generated are
to be applied by the city, county or other local taxing authority of a
jurisdiction within which the Premises are located, The term "REAL PROPERTY
TAXES" shall also include any tax, fee, levy, assessment or charge, or any
increase therein, imposed by reason of events occurring during the term of this
Lease, including but not limited to, a change in the ownership of the Premises.
10.2
(a) PAYMENT OF TAXES. Lessee shall pay the Real Property Taxes
applicable to the Premises during the term of this Lease. Subject to Paragraph
10.2(b), all such payments shall be made at least ten (10) days prior to any
delinquency date. Lessee shall promptly furnish Lessor with satisfactory
evidence that such taxes have been paid. If any such taxes shall cover any
period of time prior to or after the expiration or termination of this Lease,
Lessee's share of such taxes shall be prorated to cover only that portion of the
tax bill applicable to the period that this Lease is in effect, and Lessor shall
reimburse Lessee for any overpayment. If Lessee shall fail to pay any required
Real Property Taxes, Lessor shall have the right to pay the same, and Lessee
shall reimburse Lessor therefore upon demand.
(b) ADVANCE PAYMENT. In the event Lessee incurs a late charge on
any Rent payment, Lessor may, at Lessor's option, estimate the current Real
Property Taxes, and require that such taxes be paid in advance to Lessor by
Lessee, either: (i) in a lump sum amount equal to the installment due, at least
twenty (20) days prior to the applicable delinquency date, or (ii) monthly in
advance with the payment of the Base Rent. If Lessor elects to require payment
monthly in advance, the monthly payment shall be an amount equal to the amount
of the estimated installment of taxes divided by the number of months remaining
before the month in which said installment becomes delinquent. When the actual
amount of the applicable tax bill is known, the amount of such equal monthly
advance payments shall be adjusted as required to provide the funds needed to
pay the applicable taxes. If the amount collected by Lessor is insufficient to
pay such Real Property Taxes when due, Lessee shall pay Lessor, upon demand,
such additional sums as are necessary to pay such obligations. All moneys paid
to Lessor under this Paragraph may be intermingled with other moneys of Lessor
and shall not bear interest. In the event of a Breach by Lessee in the
performance of its obligations under this Lease, then any balance of funds paid
to Lessor under the provisions of this Paragraph may at the option of Lessor, be
treated as an additional Security Deposit.
10.3 JOINT ASSESSMENT. If the Premises are not separately assessed,
Lessee's liability shall be an equitable proportion of the Real Property Taxes
for all of the land and improvements included within the tax parcel assessed,
such proportion to be conclusively determined by Lessor from the respective
valuations assigned in the assessor's work sheets or such other information as
may be reasonably available.
10.4 PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES. Lessee shall pay, prior to delinquency,
all taxes assessed against and levied upon Lessee Owned Alterations, Utility
Installations, Trade Fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all personal property
of Lessee. When possible, Lessee shall cause such property to be assessed and
billed separately from the real property of Lessor. If any of Lessee's said
personal property shall be assessed with Lessor's real property, Lessee shall
pay Lessor the taxes attributable to Lessee's property within ten (10) days
after receipt of a written statement.
11. UTILITIES. Lessee shall pay for all water, gas, heat, light, power,
telephone, trash disposal and other utilities and services supplied to the
Premises, together with any taxes thereon. If any such services are not
separately metered to Lessee, Lessee shall pay a reasonable proportion, to be
determined by Lessor, of all charges jointly metered.
12. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING.
12.1 LESSOR'S CONSENT REQUIRED.
(a) Lessee shall not voluntarily or by operation of law assign,
transfer, mortgage or encumber (collectively, "ASSIGN OR ASSIGNMENT") or sublet
all or any part of Lessee's interest in this Lease or in the Premises without
Lessor's prior written consent.
(b) A change in the control of Lessee shall constitute an
assignment requiring consent. The transfer, on a cumulative basis, of
twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the voting control of Lessee shall
constitute a change in control for this purpose.
(c) The involvement of Lessee or its assets in any transaction,
or series of transactions (by way of merger, sale, acquisition, financing,
transfer, leveraged buy-out or otherwise), whether or not a formal assignment or
hypothecation of this Lease or Lessee's assets occurs, which results or will
result in a reduction of the Net Worth of Lessee by an amount greater than
twenty-five percent (25%) of such Net Worth as it was represented at the time of
the execution of this Lease or at the time of the most recent assignment to
which Lessor has consented, or as it exists immediately prior to said
transaction or transactions constituting such reduction, whichever was or is
greater, shall be considered an assignment of this Lease to which Lessor may
withhold its consent. "NET WORTH OF LESSEE" shall mean the net worth of Lessee
(excluding any guarantors) established under generally accepted accounting
principles.
(d) An assignment or subletting without consent shall, at
Lessor's option, be a Default curable after notice per Paragraph 13.1 (c), or a
noncurable Breach without the necessity of any notice and grace period. If
Lessor elects to treat such unapproved assignment or subletting as a noncurable
Breach, Lessor may either: (i) terminate this Lease, or (ii) upon thirty (30)
days written notice, increase the monthly Base Rent to one hundred ten percent
(110%) of the Base Rent then in effect. Further, in the event of such Breach and
rental adjustment, (i) the purchase price of any option to purchase the Premises
held by Lessee shall be subject to similar adjustment to one hundred ten percent
(110%) of the price previously in effect, and (ii) all fixed and non-fixed
rental adjustments scheduled during the remainder of the Lease term shall be
increased to One Hundred Ten Percent (110%) of the scheduled adjusted rent.
(e) Lessee's remedy for any breach of Paragraph 12.1 by Lessor
shall be limited to compensatory damages and/or injunctive relief.
12.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING.
(a) Regardless of Lessors consent, any assignment or subletting
shall not: (i) be effective without the express written assumption by such
assignee or sublessee of the obligations of Lessee under this Lease, (ii)
release Lessee of any obligations hereunder, or (iii) alter the primary
liability of Lessee for the payment of Rent or for the performance of any other
obligations to be performed by Lessee.
(b) Lessor may accept Rent or performance of Lessee's
obligations from any person other than Lessee pending approval or disapproval of
an assignment. Neither a delay in the approval or disapproval of such assignment
nor the acceptance of Rent or performance shall constitute a waiver or estoppel
of Lessor's right to exercise its remedies for Lessee's Default or Breach.
(c) Lessor's consent to any assignment or subletting shall not
constitute a consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting.
(d) In the event of any Default or Breach by Lessee, Lessor may
proceed directly against Lessee, any Guarantors or anyone else responsible for
the performance of Lessee's obligations under this Lease, including any assignee
or sublessee, without first exhausting Lessor's remedies against any other
person or entity responsible therefore to Lessor, or any security held by
Lessor.
(e) Each request for consent to an assignment or subletting
shall be in writing, accompanied by information relevant to Lessor's
determination as to the financial and operational responsibility and
appropriateness of the proposed assignee or sublessee, including but not limited
to the intended use and/or required modification of the Premises, if any,
together with a fee of $1,000 or ten percent (10%) of the current monthly Base
Rent applicable to the portion of the Premises which is the subject of the
proposed assignment or sublease, whichever is greater, as consideration for
Lessor's considering and processing said request. Lessee agrees to provide
Lessor with such other or additional information and/or documentation as may be
reasonably requested.
(f) Any assignee of, or sublessee under, this Lease shall, by
reason of accepting such assignment or entering into such sublease, be deemed to
have assumed and agreed to conform and comply with each and every term,
covenant, condition and obligation herein to be observed or performed by Lessee
during the term of said assignment or sublease, other than such obligations as
are contrary to or inconsistent with provisions of an assignment or sublease to
which Lessor has specifically consented to in writing.
12.3 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO SUBLETTING. The
following terms and conditions shall apply to any subletting by Lessee of all or
any part of the Premises and shall be deemed included in all subleases under
this Lease whether or not expressly incorporated therein:
(a) Lessee hereby assigns and transfers to Lessor all of
Lessee's interest in all Rent payable on any sublease, and Lessor may collect
such Rent and apply same toward Lessee's obligations under this Lease; provided,
however, that until a Breach shall occur in the performance of Lessee's
obligations, Lessee may collect said Rent. Lessor shall not, by reason of the
foregoing or any assignment of such sublease, nor by reason of the collection of
Rent, be deemed liable to the subleases for any failure of Lessee to perform and
comply with any of Lessee's obligations to such sublessee. Lessee hereby
irrevocably authorizes and directs any such sublessee, upon receipt of a written
notice
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from Lessor stating that a Breach exists in the performance of Lessee's
obligations under this Lease, to pay to Lessor all Rent due and to become due
under the sublease. Sublessee shall rely upon any such notice from Lessor and
shall pay all Rents to Lessor without any obligation or right to inquire as to
whether such Breach exists, notwithstanding any claim from Lessee to the
contrary.
(b) In the event of a Breach by Lessee, Lessor may, at its
option, require sublessee to attorn to Lessor, in which event Lessor shall
undertake the obligations of the sublessor under such sublease from the time of
the exercise of said option to the expiration of such sublease; provided,
however, Lessor shall not be liable for any prepaid rents or security deposit
paid by such sublessee to such sublessor or for any prior Defaults or Breaches
of such sublessor.
(c) Any matter requiring the consent of the sublessor under a
sublease shall also require the consent of Lessor.
(d) No sublessee shall further assign or sublet all or any part
of the Premises without Lessor's prior written consent.
(e) Lessor shall deliver a copy of any notice of Default or
Breach by Lessee to the sublessee, who shall have the right to cure the Default
of Lessee within the grace period, if any, specified in such notice. The
sublessee shall have a right of reimbursement and offset from and against Lessee
for any such Defaults cured by the sublessee.
13. DEFAULT; BREACH; REMEDIES.
13.1 DEFAULT; BREACH. A "DEFAULT" is defined as a failure by the Lessee
to comply with or perform any of the terms, covenants, conditions or rules under
this Lease. A "BREACH" is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the
following Defaults, and the failure of Lessee to cure such Default within any
applicable grace period:
(a) The abandonment of the Premises; or the vacating of the
Premises without providing a commercially reasonable level of security, or where
the coverage of the property insurance described in Paragraph 8.3 is jeopardized
as a result thereof, or without providing reasonable assurances to minimize
potential vandalism.
(b) The failure of Lessee to make any payment of Rent or any
Security Deposit required to be made by Lessee hereunder, whether to Lessor or
to a third party, when due, to provide reasonable evidence of insurance or
surety bond, or to fulfill any obligation under this Lease which endangers or
threatens life or property, where such failure continues for a period of three
(3) business days following written notice to Lessee.
(c) The failure by Lessee to provide (i) reasonable written
evidence of compliance with Applicable Requirements, (ii) the service contracts,
(iii) the rescission of an unauthorized assignment or subletting, (iv) a Tenancy
Statement, (v) a requested subordination, (vi) evidence concerning any guaranty
and/or Guarantor, (vii) any document requested under Paragraph 42 (easements),
or (viii) any other documentation or information which Lessor may reasonably
require of Lessee under the terms of this Lease, where any such failure
continues for a period of ten (10) days following written notice to Lessee.
(d) A Default by Lessee as to the terms, covenants, conditions
or provisions of this Lease, or of the rules adopted under Paragraph 40 hereof,
other than those described in subparagraphs 13.1 (a). (b) or (c), above, where
such Default continues for a period of thirty (30) days after written notice;
provided, however, that if the nature of Lessee's Default is such that more than
thirty (30) days are reasonably required for its cure, then it shall not be
deemed to be a Breach if Lessee commences such cure within said thirty (30) day
period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion.
(e) The occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the
making of any general arrangement or assignment for the benefit of creditors;
(ii) becoming a "DEBTOR" as defined in 11 U.S.C. Section 101 or any successor
statute thereto (unless, in the case of a petition filed against Lessee, the
same is dismissed within sixty (60) days); (iii) the appointment of a trustee or
receiver to take possession of substantially all of Lessee's assets located at
the Premises or of Lessee's interest in this Lease, where possession is not
restored to Lessee within thirty (30) days; or (iv) the attachment, execution or
other judicial seizure of substantially all of Lessee's assets located at the
Premises or of Lessee's interest in this Lease, where such seizure is not
discharged within thirty (30) days; provided, however, in the event that any
provision of this subparagraph (e) is contrary to any applicable law, such
provision shall be of no force or effect, and not affect the validity of the
remaining provisions.
(f) The discovery that any financial statement of Lessee or of
any Guarantor given to Lessor was materially false.
(g) If the performance of Lessee's obligations under this Lease
is guaranteed: (i) the death of a Guarantor, (ii) the termination of a
Guarantor's liability with respect to this Lease other than in accordance with
the terms of such guaranty, (iii) a Guarantor's becoming insolvent or the
subject of a bankruptcy filing, (iv) a Guarantor's refusal to honor the
guaranty, or (v) a Guarantor's breach of its guaranty obligation on an
anticipatory basis, and Lessee's failure, within sixty (60) days following
written notice of any such event, to provide written alternative assurance or
security, which, when coupled with the then existing resources of Lessee, equals
or exceeds the combined financial resources of Lessee and the Guarantors that
existed at the time of execution of this Lease.
13.2 REMEDIES. If Lessee fails to perform any of its affirmative duties
or obligations, within ten (10) days after written notice (or in case of an
emergency, without notice), Lessor may, at its option, perform such duty or
obligation on Lessee's behalf, including but not limited to the obtaining of
reasonably required bonds, insurance policies, or governmental licenses, permits
or approvals. The costs and expenses of any such performance by Lessor shall be
due and payable by Lessee upon receipt of invoice therefore. If any check given
to Lessor by Lessee shall not be honored by the bank upon which it is drawn,
Lessor, at its option, may require all future payments to be made by Lessee to
be by cashier's check. In the event of a Breach, Lessor may, with or without
further notice or demand, and without limiting Lessor in the exercise of any
right or remedy which Lessor may have by reason of such Breach:
(a) Terminate Lessee's right to possession of the Premises by
any lawful means, in which case this Lease shall terminate and Lessee shall
immediately surrender possession to Lessor. In such event Lessor shall be
entitled to recover from Lessee: (i) the unpaid Rent which had been earned at
the time of termination; (ii) the worth at the time of award of the amount by
which the unpaid rent which would have been earned after termination until the
time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves
could have been reasonably avoided; (iii) the worth at the time of award of the
amount by which the unpaid rent for the balance of the term after the time of
award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves could be
reasonably avoided; and (iv) any other amount necessary to compensate Lessor for
all the detriment proximately caused by the Lessee's failure to perform its
obligations under this Lease or which in the ordinary course of things would be
likely to result therefrom, including but not limited to the cost of recovering
possession of the Premises, expenses of reletting, including necessary
renovation and alteration of the Premises, reasonable attorneys' fees, and that
portion of any leasing commission paid by Lessor in connection with this Lease
applicable to the unexpired term of this Lease. The worth at the time of award
of the amount referred to in provision (iii) of the immediately preceding
sentence shall be computed by discounting such amount at the discount rate of
the Federal Reserve Bank of the District within which the Premises are located
at the time of award plus one percent (1%). Efforts by Lessor to mitigate
damages caused by Lessee's Breach of this Lease shall not waive Lessor's right
to recover damages under Paragraph 12. If termination of this Lease is obtained
through the provisional remedy of unlawful detainer, Lessor shall have the right
to recover in such proceeding any unpaid Rent and damages as are recoverable
therein, or (b) Lessor may reserve the right to recover all or any part thereof
in a separate suit. If a notice and grace period required under Paragraph 13.1
was not previously given, a notice to pay rent or quit, or to perform or quit
given to Lessee under the unlawful detainer statute shall also constitute the
notice required by Paragraph 13.1. In such case, the applicable grace period
required by Paragraph 13.1 and the unlawful detainer statute shall run
concurrently, and the failure of Lessee to cure the Default within the greater
of the two such grace periods shall constitute both an unlawful detainer and a
Breach of this Lease entitling Lessor to the remedies provided for in this Lease
and/or by said statute.
(b) Continue the Lease and Lessee's right to possession and
recover the Rent as it becomes due, in which event Lessee may sublet or assign,
subject only to reasonable limitations. Acts of maintenance, efforts to relet,
and/or the appointment of a receiver to protect the Lessor's interests, shall
not constitute a termination of the Lessee's right to possession.
(c) Pursue any other remedy now or hereafter available under the
laws or judicial decisions of the state wherein the Premises are located. The
expiration or termination of this Lease and/or the termination of Lessee's right
to possession shall not relieve Lessee from liability
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under any indemnity provisions of this Lease as to matters occurring or accruing
during the term hereof or by reason of Lessee's occupancy of the Premises.
13.3 INDUCEMENT RECAPTURE. Any agreement for free or abated rent or
other charges, or for the giving or paying by Lessor to or for Lessee of any
cash or other bonus, inducement or consideration for Lessee's entering into this
Lease, all of which concessions are hereinafter referred to as "INDUCEMENT
PROVISIONS," shall be deemed conditioned upon Lessee's full and faithful
performance of all of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease. Upon
Breach of this Lease by Lessee, any such Inducement Provision shall
automatically be deemed deleted from this Lease and of no further force or
effect, and any rent, other charge, bonus, inducement or consideration
theretofore abated, given or paid by Lessor under such an Inducement Provision
shall be immediately due and payable by Lessee to Lessor, notwithstanding any
subsequent cure of said Breach by Lessee. The acceptance by Lessor of rent or
the cure of the Breach which initiated the operation of this paragraph shall not
be deemed a waiver by Lessor of the provisions of this paragraph unless
specifically so stated in writing by Lessor at the time of such acceptance.
13.4 LATE CHARGES. Lessee hereby acknowledges that late payment by
Lessee of Rent will cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease,
the exact amount of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Such costs
include, but are not limited to, processing and accounting charges, and
late-charges which may be imposed upon Lessor by any Lender. Accordingly, if any
Rent shall not be received by Lessor within five (5) days after such amount
shall be due, then, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, Lessee shall
pay to Lessor a one-time late charge equal to ten percent (10%) of each such
overdue amount. The parties hereby agree that such late charge represents a fair
and reasonable estimate of the costs Lessor will incur by reason of such late
payment. Acceptance of such late charge by Lessor shall in no event constitute a
waiver of Lessee's Default or Breach with respect to such overdue amount, nor
prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.
In the event that a late charge is payable hereunder, whether or not collected,
for three (3) consecutive installments of Base Rent, then notwithstanding any
provision of this Lease to the contrary, Base Rent shall, at Lessor's option,
become due and payable quarterly in advance.
13.5 INTEREST. Any monetary payment due Lessor hereunder, other than
late charges, not received by Lessor, when due as to scheduled payments (such as
Base Rent) or within thirty (30) days following the date on which it was due for
non-scheduled payment, shall bear interest from the date when due, as to
scheduled payments, or the thirty-first (31st) day after it was due as to
non-scheduled payments. The interest ("INTEREST") charged shall be equal to the
prime rate reported in the Wall Street Journal as published closest prior to the
date when due plus four percent (4%), but shall not exceed the maximum rate
allowed by law. Interest is payable in addition to the potential late charge
provided for in Paragraph 13.4.
13.6 BREACH BY LESSOR.
(a) NOTICE OF BREACH. Lessor shall not be deemed in breach of
this Lease unless Lessor fails within a reasonable time to perform an obligation
required to be performed by Lessor. For purposes of this Paragraph, a reasonable
time shall in no event be less than thirty (30) days after receipt by Lessor,
and any Lender whose name and address shall have been furnished Lessee in
writing for such purpose, of written notice specifying wherein such obligation
of Lessor has not been performed; provided, however, that if the nature of
Lessor's obligation is such that more than thirty (30) days are reasonably
required for its performance, then Lessor shall not be in breach if performance
is commenced within such thirty (30) day period and thereafter diligently
pursued to completion.
(b) PERFORMANCE BY LESSEE ON BEHALF OF LESSOR. In the event that
neither Lessor nor Lender cures said breach within thirty (30) days after
receipt of said notice, or if having commenced said cure they do not diligently
pursue it to completion, then Lessee may elect to cure said breach at Lessee's
expense and offset from Rent an amount equal to the greater of one month's Base
Rent or the Security Deposit, and to pay an excess of such expense under
protest, reserving Lessee's right to reimbursement from Lessor. Lessee shall
document the cost of said cure and supply said documentation to Lessor.
14. CONDEMNATION. If the Premises or any portion thereof are taken under the
power of eminent domain or sold under the threat of the exercise of said power
(collectively "CONDEMNATION"), this Lease shall terminate as to the part taken
as of the date the condemning authority takes title or possession, whichever
first occurs. If more than ten percent (10%) of any building portion of the
premises, or more than twentyfive percent (25%) of the land area portion of the
premises not occupied by any building, is taken by Condemnation, Lessee may, at
Lessee's option, to be exercised in writing within ten (10) days after Lessor
shall have given Lessee written notice of such taking (or in the absence of such
notice, within ten (10) days after the condemning authority shall have taken
possession) terminate this Lease as of the date the condemning authority takes
such possession. If Lessee does not terminate this Lease in accordance with the
foregoing, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect as to the portion of
the Premises remaining, except that the Base Rent shall be reduced in proportion
to the reduction in utility of the Premises caused by such Condemnation.
Condemnation awards and/or payments shall be the property of Lessor, whether
such award shall be made as compensation for diminution in value of the
leasehold, the value of the part taken, or for severance damages; provided,
however, that Lessee shall be entitled to any compensation for Lessee's
relocation expenses, loss of business goodwill and/or Trade Fixtures, without
regard to whether or not this Lease is terminated pursuant to the provisions of
this Paragraph. All Alterations and Utility Installations made to the Premises
by Lessee, for purposes of Condemnation only, shall be considered the property
of the Lessee and Lessee shall be entitled to any and all compensation which is
payable therefore. In the event that this Lease is not terminated by reason of
the Condemnation, Lessor shall repair any damage to the Premises caused by such
Condemnation.
15. BROKERS'FEE.
15.1 ADDITIONAL COMMISSION. In addition to the payments owed pursuant to
Paragraph 1.10 above, and unless Lessor and the Brokers otherwise agree in
writing, Lessor agrees that: (a) if Lessee exercises any Option, (b) if Lessee
acquires any rights to the Premises or other premises owned by Lessor and
located within the same Project, if any, within which the Premises is located,
(c) if Lessee remains in possession of the Premises, with the consent of Lessor,
after the expiration of this Lease, or (d) if Base Rent is increased, whether by
agreement or operation of an escalation clause herein, then, Lessor shall pay
Brokers a fee in accordance with the schedule of said Brokers in effect at the
time of the execution of this Lease.
15.2 ASSUMPTION OF OBLIGATIONS. Any buyer or transferee of Lessor's
interest in this Lease shall be deemed to have assumed Lessor's obligation
hereunder. Each Broker shall be a third party beneficiary of the provisions of
Paragraphs 1.10, 15, 22 and 31. If Lessor fails to pay to a Broker any amounts
due as and for commissions pertaining to this Lease when due, then such amounts
shall accrue Interest. In addition, if Lessor fails to pay any amounts to
Lessee's Broker when due, Lessee's Broker may send written notice to Lessor and
Lessee of such failure and if Lessor fails to pay such amounts within ten (10)
days after said notice, Lessee shall pay said monies to its Broker and offset
such amounts against Rent. In addition, Lessee's Broker shall be deemed to be a
third party beneficiary of any commission agreement entered into by and/or
between Lessor and Lessors Broker.
15.3 REPRESENTATIONS AND INDEMNITIES OF BROKER RELATIONSHIPS. Lessee and
Lessor each represent and warrant to the other that it has had no dealings with
any person, firm, broker or finder (other than the Brokers, if any) in
connection with this Lease, and that no one other than said named Brokers is
entitled to any commission or finder's fee in connection herewith. Lessee and
Lessor do each hereby agree to indemnify, protect, defend and hold the other
harmless from and against liability for compensation or charges which may be
claimed by any such unnamed broker, finder or other similar party by reason of
any dealings or actions of the indemnifying Party, including any costs,
expenses, attorneys' fees reasonably incurred with respect thereto.
16. ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATES.
(a) Each Party (as "RESPONDING PARTY") shall within ten (10)
days after written notice from the other Party (the "REQUESTING PARTY") execute,
acknowledge and deliver to the Requesting Party a statement in writing in form
similar to the then most current "ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE" form published by the
American Industrial Real Estate Association, plus such additional information,
confirmation and/or statements as may be reasonably be requested by the
Requesting Party.
(b) If the Responding Party shall fail to execute or deliver the
Estoppel Certificate within such ten day period, the Requesting Party may
execute an Estoppel Certificate stating that: (i) the Lease is in full force and
effect without modification except as may be represented by the Requesting
Party, (ii) there are no uncured defaults in the Requesting Party's performance,
and (iii) if Lessor is the Requesting Party, not more than one month's rent has
been paid in advance. Prospective purchasers and encumbrancers may rely upon the
Requesting Party's Estoppel Certificate, and the Responding Party shall be
estopped from denying the truth of the facts contained in said Certificate.
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(c) If Lessor desires to finance, refinance, or sell the
Premises, or any part thereof, Lessee and all Guarantors shall deliver to any
potential lender or purchaser designated by Lessor such financial statements as
may be reasonably required by such lender or purchaser, including but not
limited to Lessee's financial statements for the past three (3) years. All such
financial statements shall be received by Lessor and such lender or purchaser in
confidence and shall be used only for the purposes herein set forth.
17. DEFINITION OF LESSOR. The term "LESSOR" as used herein shall mean the owner
or owners at the time in question of the fee title to the Premises, or, if this
is a sublease, of the Lessee's interest in the prior lease. In the event of a
transfer of Lessor's title or interest in the Premises or this Lease, Lessor
shall deliver to the transferee or assignee (in cash or by credit) any unused
Security Deposit held by Lessor. Except as provided in Paragraph 15, upon such
transfer or assignment and delivery of the Security Deposit, as aforesaid, the
prior Lessor shall be relieved of all liability with respect to the obligations
and/or covenants under this Lease thereafter to be performed by the Lessor.
Subject to the foregoing, the obligations and/or covenants in this Lease to be
performed by the Lessor shall be binding only upon the Lessor as hereinabove
defined, Notwithstanding the above, and subject to the provisions of Paragraph
20 below, the original Lessor under this Lease, and all subsequent holders of
the Lessor's interest in this Lease shall remain liable and responsible with
regard to the potential duties and liabilities of Lessor pertaining to Hazardous
Substances as outlined in Paragraph 6 above.
18. SEVERABILITY. The invalidity of any provision of this Lease, as determined
by a court of competent jurisdiction, shall in no way affect the validity of any
other provision hereof.
19. DAYS. Unless otherwise specifically indicated to the contrary, the word
"days" as used in this Lease shall mean and refer to calendar days.
20. LIMITATION ON LIABILITY. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph 17 above,
the obligations of Lessor under this Lease shall not constitute personal
obligations of Lessor, the individual partners of Lessor or its or their
individual partners, directors, officers or shareholders, and Lessee shall look
to the Premises, and to no other assets of Lessor, for the satisfaction of any
liability of Lessor with respect to this Lease, and shall not seek recourse
against the individual partners of Lessor, or its or their individual partners,
directors, officers or shareholders, or any of their personal assets for such
satisfaction.
21. TIME OF ESSENCE. Time is of the essence with respect to the performance of
all obligations to be performed or observed by the Parties under this Lease.
22. NO PRIOR OR OTHER AGREEMENTS; BROKER DISCLAIMER. This Lease contains all
agreements between the Parties with respect to any matter mentioned herein, and
no other prior or contemporaneous agreement or understanding shall be effective.
Lessor and Lessee each represents and warrants to the Brokers that it has made,
and is relying solely upon, its own investigation as to the nature, quality,
character and financial responsibility of the other Party to this Lease and as
to the nature, quality and character of the Premises. Brokers have no
responsibility with respect thereto or with respect to any default or breach
hereof by either Party. The liability (including court costs and Attorneys'
fees), of any Broker with respect to negotiation, execution, delivery or
performance by either Lessor or Lessee under this Lease or any amendment or
modification hereto shall be limited to an amount up to the fee received by such
Broker pursuant to this Lease; provided, however, that the foregoing limitation
on each Broker's liability shall not be applicable to any gross negligence or
willful misconduct of such Broker.
23. NOTICES.
23.1 NOTICE REQUIREMENTS. All notices required or permitted by this
Lease shall be in writing and may be delivered in person (by hand or by courier)
or may be sent by regular, certified or registered mail or U.S. Postal Service
Express Mail, with postage prepaid, or by facsimile transmission, and shall be
deemed sufficiently given if served in a manner specified in this Paragraph 23.
The addresses noted adjacent to a Party's signature on this Lease shall be that
Party's address for delivery or mailing of notices. Either Party may by written
notice to the other specify a different address for notice, except that upon
Lessee's taking possession of the Premises, the Premises shall constitute
Lessee's address for notice. A copy of all notices to Lessor shall be
concurrently transmitted to such party or parties at such addresses as Lessor
may from time to time hereafter designate in writing.
23.2 DATE OF NOTICE. Any notice sent by registered or certified mail,
return receipt requested, shall be deemed given on the date of delivery shown on
the receipt card, or if no delivery date is shown, the postmark thereon. If sent
by regular mail the notice shall be deemed given forty-eight (48) hours after
the same is addressed as required herein and mailed with postage prepaid.
Notices delivered by United States Express Mail or overnight courier that
guarantee next day delivery shall be deemed given twenty-four (24) hours after
delivery of the same to the Postal Service or courier. Notices transmitted by
facsimile transmission or similar means shall be deemed delivered upon telephone
confirmation of receipt, provided a copy is also delivered via delivery or mail.
If notice is received on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, it shall be deemed
received on the next business day.
24. WAIVERS. No waiver by Lessor of the Default or Breach of any term, covenant
or condition hereof by Lessee, shall be deemed a waiver of any other term,
covenant or condition hereof, or of any subsequent Default or Breach by Lessee
of the same or of any other term, covenant or condition hereof. Lessors consent
to, or approval of, any act shall not be deemed to render unnecessary the
obtaining of Lessor's consent to, or approval of, any subsequent or similar act
by Lessee, or be construed as the basis of an estoppel to enforce the provision
or provisions of this Lease requiring such consent. The acceptance of Rent by
Lessor shall not be a waiver of any Default or Breach by Lessee. Any payment by
Lessee may be accepted by Lessor on account of moneys or damages due Lessor,
notwithstanding any qualifying statements or conditions made by Lessee in
connection therewith, which such statements and/or conditions shall be of no
force or effect whatsoever unless specifically agreed to in writing by Lessor at
or before the time of deposit of such payment.
25. RECORDING. Either Lessor or Lessee shall, upon request of the other,
execute, acknowledge and deliver to the other a short form memorandum of this
Lease for recording purposes. The Party requesting recordation shall be
responsible for payment of any fees applicable thereto.
26. NO RIGHT TO HOLDOVER. Lessee has no right to retain possession of the
Premises or any part thereof beyond the expiration or termination of this Lease.
In the event that Lessee holds over, then the Base Rent shall be increased to
one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the Base Rent applicable during the month
immediately preceding the expiration or termination. Nothing contained herein
shall be construed as consent by Lessor to any holding over by Lessee.
27. CUMULATIVE REMEDIES. No remedy or election hereunder shall be deemed
exclusive but shall, wherever possible, be cumulative with all other remedies at
law or in equity.
28. COVENANTS AND CONDITIONS; CONSTRUCTION OF AGREEMENT. All provisions of this
Lease to be observed or performed by Lessee are both covenants and conditions.
In construing this Lease, all headings and titles are for the convenience of the
parties only and shall not be considered a part of this Lease. Whenever required
by the context, the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. This Lease
shall not be construed as if prepared by one of the parties, but rather
according to its fair meaning as a whole, as if both parties had prepared it.
29. BINDING EFFECT; CHOICE OF LAW. This Lease shall be binding upon the parties,
their personal representatives, successors and assigns and be governed by the
laws of the State in which the Premises are located. Any litigation between the
Parties hereto concerning this Lease shall be initiated in the county in which
the Premises are located.
30. SUBORDINATION; ATTORNMENT; NON-DISTURBANCE.
30.1 SUBORDINATION. This Lease and any Option granted hereby shall be
subject and subordinate to any ground lease, mortgage, deed of trust, or other
hypothecation or security device (collectively, "SECURITY DEVICE"), now or
hereafter placed upon the Premises, to any and all advances made on the security
thereof, and to all renewals, modifications, and extensions thereof. Lessee
agrees that the holders of any such Security Devices (in this Lease together
referred to as "Lessor's Lender") shall have no liability or obligation to
perform any of the obligations of Lessor under this Lease. Any Lender may elect
to have this Lease and/or any Option granted hereby superior to the lien of its
Security Device by giving written notice thereof to Lessee, whereupon this Lease
and such Options shall be deemed prior to such Security Device, notwithstanding
the relative dates of the documentation or recordation thereof.
30.2 ATTORNMENT. Subject to the non-disturbance provisions of Paragraph
30.3, Lessee agrees to attorn to a Lender or any other party who acquires
ownership of the Premises by reason of a foreclosure of a Security Device, and
that in the event of such foreclosure, such new
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owner shall not: (i) be liable for any act or omission of any prior lessor or
with respect to events occurring prior to acquisition of ownership; (ii) be
subject to any offsets or defenses which Lessee might have against any prior
lessor, or (iii) be bound by prepayment of more than one (1) month's rent.
30.3 NON-DISTURBANCE. With respect to Security Devices entered into by
Lessor after the execution of this Lease, Lessee's subordination of this Lease
shall be subject to receiving a commercially reasonable non-disturbance
agreement (a "NON-DISTURBANCE AGREEMENT") from the Lender which Non-Disturbance
Agreement provides that Lessee's possession of the Premises, and this Lease,
including any options to extend the term hereof, will not be disturbed so long
as Lessee is not in Breach hereof and attorns to the record owner of the
Premises. Further, within sixty (60) days after the execution of this Lease,
Lessor shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a Non-Disturbance
Agreement from the holder of any pre-existing Security Device which is secured
by the Premises. In the event that Lessor is unable to provide the
Non-Disturbance Agreement within said sixty (60) days, then Lessee may, at
Lessee's option, directly contact Lessor's lender and attempt to negotiate for
the execution and delivery of a Non-Disturbance Agreement.
30.4 SELF-EXECUTING. The agreements contained in this Paragraph 30 shall
be effective without the execution of any further documents; provided, however,
that, upon written request from Lessor or a Lender in connection with a sale,
financing or refinancing of the Premises, Lessee and Lessor shall execute such
further writings as may be reasonably required to separately document any
subordination, attornment and/or Non-Disturbance Agreement provided for herein.
31. ATTORNEYS' FEES. It any Party or Broker brings an action or proceeding
involving the Premises to enforce the terms hereof or to declare rights
hereunder, the Prevailing Party (as hereafter defined) in any such proceeding,
action, or appeal thereon, shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees. Such
fees may be awarded in the same suit or recovered in a separate suit, whether or
not such action or proceeding is pursued to decision or judgment, The term,
"PREVAILING PARTY" shall include, without limitation, a Party or Broker who
substantially obtains or defeats the relief sought, as the case may be, whether
by compromise, settlement, judgment, or the abandonment by the other Party or
Broker of its claim or defense, The attorneys' fees award shall not be computed
in accordance with any court fee schedule, but shall be such as to fully
reimburse all attorneys' fees reasonably incurred. In addition, Lessor shall be
entitled to attorneys' fees, costs and expenses incurred in the preparation and
service of notices of Default and consultations in connection therewith, whether
or not a legal action is subsequently commenced in connection with such Default
or resulting Breach.
32. LESSOR'S ACCESS; SHOWING PREMISES; REPAIRS. Lessor and Lessor's agents shall
have the right to enter the Premises at any time, in the case of an emergency,
and otherwise at reasonable times for the purpose of showing the same to
prospective purchasers, lenders, or lessees, and making such alterations,
repairs, improvements or additions to the Premises as Lessor may deem necessary.
All such activities shall be without abatement of rent or liability to Lessee.
Lessor may at any time place on the Premises any ordinary "FOR SALE" signs and
Lessor may during the last six (6) months of the term hereof place on the
Premises any ordinary "FOR LEASE" signs. Lessee may at any time place on or
about the Premises any ordinary "FOR SUBLEASE" sign.
33. AUCTIONS. Lessee shall not conduct, nor permit to be conducted, any auction
upon the Premises without Lessor's prior written consent. Lessor shall not be
obligated to exercise any standard of reasonableness in determining whether to
permit an auction.
34. SIGNS. Except for ordinary "For Sublease" signs, Lessee shall not place any
sign upon the Premises without Lessor's prior written consent. All signs must
comply with all Applicable Requirements.
35. TERMINATION; MERGER. Unless specifically stated otherwise in writing by
Lessor, the voluntary or other surrender of this Lease by Lessee, the mutual
termination or cancellation hereof, or a termination hereof by Lessor for Breach
by Lessee, shall automatically terminate any sublease or lesser estate in the
Premises; provided, however, that Lessor may elect to continue any one or all
existing subtenancies. Lessor's failure within ten (10) days following any such
event to elect to the contrary by written notice to the holder of any such
lesser interest, shall constitute Lessor's election to have such event
constitute the termination of such interest.
36. CONSENTS. Except as otherwise provided herein, wherever in this Lease the
consent of a Party is required to an act by or for the other Party, such consent
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Lessor's actual reasonable costs
and expenses (including but not limited to architects', attorneys', engineers'
and other consultants' fees) incurred in the consideration of, or response to, a
request by Lessee for any Lessor consent, including but not limited to consents
to an assignment, a subletting or the presence or use of a Hazardous Substance,
shall be paid by Lessee upon receipt of an invoice and supporting documentation
therefore. Lessor's consent to any act, assignment or subletting shall not
constitute an acknowledgment that no Default or Breach by Lessee of this Lease
exists, nor shall such consent be deemed a waiver of any then existing Default
or Breach, except as may be otherwise specifically stated in writing by Lessor
at the time of such consent. The failure to specify herein any particular
condition to Lessors' consent shall not preclude the imposition by Lessor at the
time of consent of such further or other conditions as are then reasonable with
reference to the particular matter for which consent is being given. In the
event that either Party disagrees with any determination made by the other
hereunder and reasonably requests the reasons for such determination, the
determining party shall furnish its reasons in writing and in reasonable detail
within ten (10) business days following such request.
37. GUARANTOR.
37.1 EXECUTION. The Guarantors, if any, shall each execute a guaranty in
the form most recently published by the American Industrial Real Estate
Association, and each such Guarantor shall have the same obligations as Lessee
under this Lease.
37.2 DEFAULT. It shall constitute a Default of the Lessee if any
Guarantor fails or refuses, upon request to provide: (a) evidence of the
execution of the guaranty, including the authority of the party signing on
Guarantor's behalf to obligate Guarantor, and in the case of a corporate
Guarantor, a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors
authorizing the making of such guaranty, (b) current financial statements, (c) a
Tenancy Statement, or (d) written confirmation that the guaranty is still in
effect.
38. QUIET POSSESSION. Subject to payment by Lessee of the Rent and performance
of all of the covenants, conditions and provisions on Lessee's part to be
observed and performed under this Lease, Lessee shall have quiet possession and
quiet enjoyment of the Premises during the term hereof.
39. OPTIONS.
39.1 DEFINITION. "OPTION" shall mean: (a) the right to extend the term
of or renew this Lease or to extend or renew any lease that Lessee has on other
property of Lessor; (b) the right of first refusal or first offer to lease
either the Premises or other property of Lessor; (c) the right to purchase or
the right of first refusal to purchase the Premises or other property of Lessor.
39.2 OPTIONS PERSONAL TO ORIGINAL LESSEE. Each Option granted to Lessee
in this Lease is personal to the original Lessee, and cannot be assigned or
exercised by anyone other than said original Lessee and only while the original
Lessee is in full possession of the Premises and, if requested by Lessor, with
Lessee certifying that Lessee has no intention of thereafter assigning or
subletting.
39.3 MULTIPLE OPTIONS. In the event that Lessee has any multiple Options
to extend or renew this Lease, a later Option cannot be exercised unless the
prior Options have been validly exercised.
39.4 EFFECT OF DEFAULT ON OPTIONS.
(a) Lessee shall have no right to exercise an Option: (i) during
the period commencing with the giving of any notice of Default and continuing
until said Default is cured, (ii) during the period of time any Rent is unpaid
(without regard to whether notice thereof is given Lessee), (iii) during the
time Lessee is in Breach of this Lease, or (iv) in the event that Lessee has
been given three (3) or more notices of separate Default, whether or not the
Defaults are cured, during the twelve (12) month period immediately preceding
the exercise of the Option.
(b) The period of time within which an Option may be exercised
shall not be extended or enlarged by reason of Lessee's inability to exercise an
Option because of the provisions of Paragraph 39.4(a).
(c) An Option shall terminate and be of no further force or
effect, notwithstanding Lessee's due and timely exercise of the Option, if,
after such exercise and prior to the commencement of the extended term, (i)
Lessee fails to pay Rent for a period of thirty (30) days after such Rent
becomes due (without any necessity of Lessor to give notice thereof), (ii)
Lessor gives to Lessee three (3) or more notices of separate Default during any
twelve (12) month period, whether or not the Defaults are cured, or (iii) if
Lessee commits a Breach of this Lease.
40. MULTIPLE BUILDINGS. If the Premises are a part of a group of buildings
controlled by Lessor, Lessee agrees that it will observe all reasonable rules
and regulations which Lessor may make from time to time for the management,
safety, and care of said properties, including
PAGE 11
<PAGE> 12
the care and cleanliness of the grounds and including the parking, loading and
unloading of vehicles, and that Lessee will pay its fair share of common
expenses incurred in connection therewith.
41. SECURITY MEASURES. Lessee hereby acknowledges that the rental payable to
Lessor hereunder does not include the cost of guard service or other security
measures, and that Lessor shall have no obligation whatsoever to provide same.
Lessee assumes all responsibility for the protection of the Premises, Lessee,
its agents and invitees, and their property from the acts of third parties.
42. RESERVATIONS. Lessor reserves to itself the right, from time to time, to
grant, without the consent or joinder of Lessee, such easements, rights and
dedications that Lessor deems necessary, and to cause the recordation of parcel
maps and restrictions, so long as such easements, rights, dedications, maps and
restrictions do not unreasonably interfere with the use of the Premises by
Lessee. Lessee agrees to sign any documents reasonably requested by Lessor to
effectuate any such easement rights, dedication, map or restrictions.
43. PERFORMANCE UNDER PROTEST. If at any time a dispute shall arise as to any
amount or sum of money to be paid by one Party to the other under the provisions
hereof, the Party against whom the obligation to pay the money is asserted shall
have the right to make payment "Under protest" and such payment shall not be
regarded as a voluntary payment and there shall survive the right on the part of
said Party to institute suit for recovery of such sum. If it shall be adjudged
that there was no legal obligation on the part of said Party to pay such sum or
any part thereof, said Party shall be entitled to recover such sum or so much
thereof as it was not legally required to pay.
44. AUTHORITY. If either Party hereto is a corporation, trust, limited liability
company, partnership, or similar entity, each individual executing this Lease on
behalf of such entity represents and warrants that he or she is duly authorized
to execute and deliver this Lease on its behalf. Each party shall, within thirty
(30) days after request, deliver to the other party satisfactory evidence of
such authority.
45. CONFLICT. Any conflict between the printed provisions of this Lease and the
typewritten or handwritten provisions shall be controlled by the typewritten or
handwritten provisions.
46. OFFER. Preparation of this Lease by either Party or their agent and
submission of same to the other Party shall not be deemed an offer to lease to
the other Party. This Lease is not intended to be binding until executed and
delivered by all Parties hereto.
47. AMENDMENTS. This Lease may be modified only in writing, signed by the
Parties in interest at the time of the modification. As long as they do not
materially change Lessee's obligations hereunder, Lessee agrees to make such
reasonable non-monetary modifications to this Lease as may be reasonably
required by a Lender in connection with the obtaining of normal financing or
refinancing of the Premises.
48. MULTIPLE PARTIES. If more than one person or entity is named herein as
either Lessor or Lessee, such multiple Parties shall have joint and several
responsibility to comply with the terms of this Lease.
49. MEDIATION AND ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES. An Addendum requiring the Mediation
and/or the Arbitration of all disputes between the Parties and/or Brokers
arising out of this Lease [ ] is [X] is not attached to this Lease.
50. Lessor shall maintain the roof, foundation, & structural exterior load
bearing walls notwithstanding Paragraph 7.1(a).
51. OPTION: see attached
LESSOR AND LESSEE HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND REVIEWED THIS LEASE AND EACH TERM AND
PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN, AND BY THE EXECUTION OF THIS LEASE SHOW THEIR
INFORMED AND VOLUNTARY CONSENT THERETO. THE PARTIES HEREBY AGREE THAT. AT THE
TIME THIS LEASE IS EXECUTED THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE ARE COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE
AND EFFECTUATE THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF LESSOR AND LESSEE WITH RESPECT TO THE
PREMISES.
ATTENTION, NO REPRESENTATION OR RECOMMENDATION IS MADE BY THE AMERICAN
INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION OR BY ANY BROKER AS TO THE LEGAL SUFFICIENCY,
LEGAL EFFECT, OR TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE OR THE TRANSACTION TO WHICH IT
RELATES. THE PARTIES ARE URGED TO:
1. SEEK ADVICE OF COUNSEL AS TO THE LEGAL AND TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE.
2. RETAIN APPROPRIATE CONSULTANTS TO REVIEW AND INVESTIGATE THE CONDITION OF THE
PREMISES. SAID INVESTIGATION SHOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO: THE POSSIBLE
PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, THE ZONING OF THE PREMISES, THE STRUCTURAL
INTEGRITY, THE CONDITION OF THE ROOF AND OPERATING SYSTEMS, AND THE SUITABILITY
OF THE PREMISES FOR LESSEE'S INTENDED USE.
WARNING, IF THE PREMISES IS LOCATED IN A STATE OTHER THAN CALIFORNIA, CERTAIN
PROVISIONS OF THE LEASE MAY NEED TO BE REVISED TO COMPLY WITH THE LAWS OF THE
STATE IN WHICH THE PREMISES IS LOCATED.
The parties hereto have executed this Lease at the place and on the dates
specified above their respective signatures.
Executed at: Los Angeles Executed at: Los Angeles
on: December 1, 1998 on: December 1, 1998
By LESSOR: By LESSEE:
RADAR INVESTMENTS, INC. MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: By: /s/ NOAM LOTAN
----------------------------- -------------------------------
Name Printed: Chakrapani Name Printed: Noam Lotan
Title: President Title: President
By: /s/ J. WILLIAM MALONEY By:
----------------------------- --------------------------------
Name Printed: J. William Maloney Name Printed:
Title: President Title:
Address: 534 Alta Avenue Address:
Santa Monica, CA 90402 ----------------------------
Telephone (310) 395-5336 ----------------------------
Facsimile: ( ) Telephone ( )
---------------- ------------------
Federal ID No. Facsimile: ( )
------------------- -----------------
Federal ID No.
--------------------
PAGE 12
<PAGE> 13
OPTION(S) TO EXTEND
STANDARD LEASE ADDENDUM
DATED December 1, 1998
BY AND BETWEEN (LESSOR) RADAR INVESTMENTS, INC.
(LESSEE) MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
ADDRESS OF PREMISES: 8943-8947 Ful1bright Avenue, Chatsworth, Ca.
Paragraph 51
A. OPTION(S) TO EXTEND:
Lessor hereby grants to Lessee the option to extend the term of this Lease for
one additional 24 month period(s) commencing when the prior term expires upon
each and all of the following terms and conditions:
(i) In order to exercise an option to extend, Lessee must give written
notice of such election to Lessor and Lessor must receive the same at least 5
but not more than 12 months prior to the date that the option period would
commence, time being of the essence. If proper notification of the exercise of
an option is not given and/or received, such option shall automatically expire.
Options (if there are more than one) may only be exercised consecutively
(ii) The provisions of paragraph 39, including those relating to
Lessee's Default set forth in paragraph 39.4 of this Lease, are conditions of
this Option.
(iii) Except for the provisions of this Lease granting an option or
options to extend the term, all of the terms and conditions of this Lease except
where specifically modified by this option shall apply.
(iv) This Option is personal to the original Lessee, and cannot be
assigned or exercised by anyone other than said original Lessee and only while
the original Lessee is in full possession of the Premises and without the
intention of thereafter assigning or subletting.
(v) The monthly rent for each month of the option period shall be
calculated as follows, using the method(s) indicated below:
(Check Method(s) to be Used and Fill in Appropriately)
[ ] I. COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT(S) (COLA)
a. On (Fill in COLA Dates):
---------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
the Base Rent shall be adjusted by the change, if.any from the Base Month
specified below, in the Consumer Price Index of the Bureau of Labor Statistics
of the U.S. Department of Labor for (select one): [ ] CPI W (Urban Wage Earners
and Clerical Workers) or [ ] CPI U (All Urban Consumers), for (Fill in Urban
Area):
All Items (1982-1984 = 100), herein referred to as "CPI"
b. The monthly rent payable in accordance with paragraph A.I.a. of this
Addendum shall be calculated as follows: the Base Rent set forth in paragraph
1.5 of the attached Lease, shall be multiplied by a fraction the numerator of
which shall be the GPI of the calendar month two months prior to the month(s)
specified in paragraph A.I.a. above during which the adjustment is to take
effect, and the denominator of which shall be the CPI of the calendar month
which is two months prior to (select one): [ ] the first month of the term of
this Lease as set forth in paragraph 1.3 ("Base Month") or [ ] (Fill in Other
"Base Month") The sum so calculated shall constitute the new
monthly rent hereunder, but in no event, shall any such new monthly rent be less
than the rent payable for the month immediately preceding the rent adjustment.
c. In the event the compilation and/or publication of the CPI shall be
transferred to any other governmental department or bureau or agency or shall be
discontinued, then the index most nearly the same as the CPJ shall be used to
make such calculation. In the event that the Parties cannot agree on such
alternative index, then the matter shall be submitted for decision to the
American Arbitration Association in accordance with the then rules of said
Association and the decision of the arbitrators shall be binding upon the
parties, The cost of said Arbitration shall be paid equally by the Parties.
[ ] II. MARKET RENTAL VALUE ADJUSTMENT(S) (MRV)
a. On (Fill in MRV Adjustment Date(s)) March 1, 2004
b. the Base Rent shall be adjusted to the "Market Rental Value" of the
property as follows:
1) Four months prior to each Market Rental Value Adjustment Date
described above, the Parties shall attempt to agree upon what the new MRV will
be on the adjustment date. If agreement cannot be reached, within thirty days,
then:
(a) Lessor and Lessee shall immediately appoint a mutually
acceptable appraiser or broker to establish the new MRV within the next thirty
days. Any associated costs will be split equally between the Parties, or
(b) Both Lessor and Lessee shall each immediately make a
reasonable determination of the MRV and submit such determination, in writing,
to arbitration in accordance with the following provisions:
(i) Within fifteen days thereafter, Lessor and Lessee
shall each select an [ ] appraiser or [ ] broker ("CONSULTANT" -- check one) of
their choice to act as an arbitrator. The two arbitrators so appointed shall
immediately select a third mutually acceptable Consultant to act as a third
arbitrator.
PAGE 1 OF 2
<PAGE> 14
(ii) The three arbitrators shall within thirty days of the
appointment of the third arbitrator reach a decision as to what the actual MRV
for the Premises is, and whether Lessor's or Lessee's submitted MRV is the
closest thereto. The decision of a majority of the arbitrators shall be binding
on the Parties. The submitted MRV which is determined to be the closest to the
actual MRV shall thereafter be used by the Parties.
(iii) If either of the Parties fails to appoint an arbitrator
within the specified fifteen days, the arbitrator timely appointed by one of
them shall reach a decision on his or her own, and said decision shall be
binding on the Parties.
(iv) The entire cost of such arbitration shall be paid by the
party whose submitted MRV is not selected, ie. the one that is NOT the closest
to the actual MRV.
2) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the new MRV shall not be less than the
rent payable for the month immediately preceding the rent adjustment.
b. Upon the establishment of each New Market Rental Value:
1) the new MRV will become the new "Base Rent" for the purpose of
calculating any further Adjustments, and
2) the first month of each Market Rental Value term shall become
the new "Base Month" for the purpose of calculating any further
Adjustments.
[ ] III. FIXED RENTAL ADJUSTMENT(S) (FRA)
The Base Rent shall be increased to the following amounts on the dates set forth
below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
On (Fill in FRA Adjustment Date(s)): The New Base Rent shall be:
<S> <C>
$
- --------------------------------------- ---------------------------
$
- --------------------------------------- ---------------------------
$
- --------------------------------------- ---------------------------
$
- --------------------------------------- ---------------------------
</TABLE>
B. NOTICE:
Unless specified otherwise herein, notice of any rental adjustments, other
than Fixed Rental Adjustments, shall be made as specified in paragraph 23 of the
Lease.
C. BROKER'S FEE: None
The Brokers specified in paragraph 1.10 shall be paid a Brokerage Fee for
each adjustment specified above in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Lease.
OPTION(S) TO EXTEND
Page 2 of 2
<PAGE> 15
J.W M. "BILL" MALONEY
534 ALTA AVENUE
SANTA MONICA, CA 90402
(310) 395-5336
December 17, 1998
Noam Lotan
MRV Communications
Re: Paving - 8743 Fullbright
Dear Mr. Lotan:
Enclosed is a fully executed lease (signed by yourself, myself, and Mr. Ullal).
This will confirm our oral agreement that the driveways and parking area of the
building at 8743 Fullbright Avenue will be resurfaced with a petromat covered by
1 1/2 to 1 3/4" of asphalt, holes patched, and stripped for 43 parking spaces.
Work will be done by Pac VIII, Mr. Greg Olmstead, at a cost of $12,500, which
will be paid $6500 by Radar Investments and $6000 by MRV. I have requested that
Mr. Olmstead contact your assistant Sylvia to coordinate the dates for doing the
work. It is anticipated that the work will be completed in two days - on a
Friday and Saturday. No cars can be parked on the property during the days the
work is being done.
If this meets with your approval, please sign and return a copy of this letter
to me.
Very truly yours,
RADAR INVESTMENTS INC.
By: /s/ BILL MALONEY
------------------------------
AGREED: MRV COMMUNICATIONS
By: /s/ NOAM LOTAN
------------------------------
Noam Lotan
<PAGE> 16
J.W M. "BILL" MALONEY
534 ALTA AVENUE
SANTA MONICA, CA 90402
(310) 395-5336
November 30, 1998
To: Mr. Norm Lotan
MRV Communications
Re: Lease: 8943 Fullbright
RADAR and MRV
17710 sq. ft. Premises
This will confirm our recent conversation wherein it was agreed between MRV and
RADAR as follows:
(1) The current lease will end 2-28-99 (instead of 3-31-99). The monthly rent
for 1/2 of December, 1998, all of January and February, 1999 will be abated.
Lessee will during this 2 1/2 months be responsible for maintenance, R&E taxes
and insurance reimbursement. This is in consideration for MRV, as Lessee,
executing a new five year lease per paragraph 2 below.
(2) New five year lease will be signed forthwith with substantially the same
terms in the form of the old lease with:
a) Term: 5 years, starting 3-1-99 to 2-28-2004
b) Rent: $12,500 per month
c) Option to extend for two years at then current market rent
d) Security Deposit: $12,500.00
e) Landlord maintain roof, foundation and structural
exterior walls; all other maintenance and repairs by
tenant.
f) Tenant to reimburse landlord for cost of insurance, RE taxes
(or pay RE taxes direct).
I have requested that Van Nuys National Glass inspect and repair any leaks
around glass in front of building. Radar will pay for this. Enclosed are three
copies of the new 5 year lease. Please sign and return two copies to me. You
will note I have signed the lease and also provided for the president of Radar
to sign, so I need two copies back. The president of Radar is in West Los
Angeles and it will only take a few days for me to get his signature. I will
then return one fully executed copy to you.
We have not received the requested reimbursement for taxes, insurance etc.,
totaling $7,548.17. Please send it as soon as possible. My records indicate your
current security deposit is $10,000.00 so we will need an additional $2,500.0
for the new lease.
If you are in agreement with the terms of paragraph 1 of this letter, and to
make it binding, please sign a copy of this memo as indicated and return.
RADAR INVESTMENT MRV COMMUNICATIONS
Agreed: Agreed:
By: /s/ J. WILLIAM MALONEY By: /s/ NOAM LOTAN
----------------------------- --------------------------
J. William Maloney Noam Lotan
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 21
SUBSIDIARIES
The following are the Company's subsidiaries at December 31, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Jurisdiction of Organization
- ---- ----------------------------
<S> <C>
NBase Communications, Inc. Maryland
NBase Communications, Ltd Israel
NBase Europe GmbH Germany
NBase Fibronics Ltd Israel
Netsoft Solutions Ltd France
Turnkey Switzerland
Kempton Communications United Kingdom
NBase Xyplex, Inc. Delaware
Xyplex, Inc. Massachusetts
EDSLAN SRL Italy
RDS Sweeden
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 23
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the
incorporation by reference of our reports dated February 15, 1999 included in
the Form 10-K of MRV Communications, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 1998
into (i) the Registration Statement on Form S-8 of MRV Communications, Inc.
(File No. 33-96458); (ii) the Registration Statement on Form S-3 of MRV
Communications, Inc. (File No. 333-17537); and (iii) the Registration Statement
on Form S-3 of MRV Communications, Inc. (File No. 333-64017). It should be
noted that we have not audited any financial statements of the Company
subsequent to December 31, 1998 or performed any audit procedures subsequent to
the date of our report.
/s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Los Angeles, California
March 30, 1999.
- ----------------
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
COMPANY'S CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
AND CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO
SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<CURRENCY> U.S. DOLLARS
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1998
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1998
<EXCHANGE-RATE> 1.00
<CASH> 20,692
<SECURITIES> 127,201
<RECEIVABLES> 63,083
<ALLOWANCES> 8,487
<INVENTORY> 47,467
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 163,791
<PP&E> 28,558
<DEPRECIATION> 9,201
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 320,192
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 48,473
<BONDS> 90,000
0
0
<COMMON> 88
<OTHER-SE> 174,341
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 320,192
<SALES> 264,075
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 264,075
<CGS> 165,385
<TOTAL-COSTS> 118,874
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 1,345
<LOSS-PROVISION> 2,591
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 3,180
<INCOME-PRETAX> (17,190)
<INCOME-TAX> 5,707
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (22,897)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 2,791
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (20,106)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (0.76)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.76)
</TABLE>
