Lightwave Logic Inc

At December 31, 2023, we had $31.4 million in cash and cash equivalents. For the purposes of this Item 7A. we consider all highly liquid instruments with maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. The fair value of all of our cash equivalents is determined based on "Level 1” inputs, which are based upon quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are active. We do not use any market risk sensitive instruments to hedge any risks, and we hold no market risk sensitive instruments for trading or speculative purposes. We place our cash investments in instruments that meet credit quality standards. At December 31, 2022, we had deposits with a financial institution that exceeded the Federal Depository Insurance coverage.

Market Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates. Our primary exposure to market risk is interest rate sensitivity, which is affected by changes in the general level of U.S. interest rates. If a 10% change in interest rates had occurred on December 31, 2023, this change would not have had a material effect on the fair value of our investment portfolio as of that date.

Due to the short holding period of our investments and the nature of our investments, we have concluded that we do not have a material financial market risk exposure.