MULLEN AUTOMOTIVE INC
For the period ended Jun 30, 2024. Filed Aug 12, 2024.
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Jun 30, 2024 · Filed Aug 12, 2024
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Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements
NOTE** 1 –DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Description of Business
Mullen Automotive Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Mullen”, “we” or the “Company”), is a Southern California-based electric vehicle company that operates in various verticals of businesses within the automotive industry.
Mullen Automotive Inc., a California corporation (“Previous Mullen”), was originally formed on* April20,* 2010, as a developer and manufacturer of electric vehicle technology and operated as the Electric Vehicle (“EV”) division of Mullen Technologies, Inc. (“MTI”) until* November 5, 2021,at which time Previous Mullen underwent a capitalization and corporate reorganization by way of a spin-off to its shareholders, followed by a reverse merger with and into Net Element, Inc., which was accounted for as a reverse merger transaction, in which Previous Mullen was treated as the acquirer for financial accounting purposes (the “Merger”). The Company changed its name from “Net Element, Inc.” to “Mullen Automotive Inc.” and the Nasdaq ticker symbol for the Company’s common stock changed from “NETE” to “MULN” on the Nasdaq Capital Market at the opening of trading on November5,* 2021. Mullen is building and delivering the newest generation of commercial trucks through the Bollinger Motors and Electric Last Mile Solutions ("ELMS") acquisitions.
Since acquiring a controlling interest in Bollinger Motors, Inc. in* September 2022,Mullen has strategically expanded into the medium-duty truck segments (Classes4*-6) and the electric Sport Utility and Pickup Truck markets. In* October 2022,Mullen successfully completed a significant acquisition of assets from ELMS, which included a manufacturing facility in Mishawaka, Indiana, and all necessary intellectual property for the design and production of Class1* and Class3 electric vehicles. Thefirst electric vehicles, produced at our Tunica, Mississippi plant, were successfully delivered to customers in* August 2023.*
Since starting production, we have invoiced 412 vehicles, totaling $17.8 million. For thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*, we delivered 377 vehicles valued at $16.8 million. The Company willnot recognize revenue or accounts receivable until payment is received, and the return policy for the vehiclesno longer applies once the dealer sells the vehicles to the final customer.
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Mullen Investment Properties LLC, a Mississippi corporation, Ottava Automotive, Inc., a California corporation, Mullen Real Estate, LLC, a Delaware corporation, Mullen Advanced Energy Operations, LLC, a California corporation, as well as a 60%-owned (on a fully dilutive basis) subsidiary Bollinger Motors Inc., a Delaware corporation. Intercompany accounts and transactions, if any, have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interest presented in these consolidated financial statements relates to the portion of equity (net assets) in subsidiariesnot attributable, directly or indirectly, to Mullen. Net income or loss are allocated to noncontrolling interests by multiplying the relative ownership interest of the noncontrolling interest holders for the period by the net income or loss of the entity to which the noncontrolling interest relates.
These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes have been prepared on the same basis as the annual consolidated financial statements and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results of operations for the periods presented. The condensed consolidated financial statements for any interim period arenot necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year or for any other future years or interim periods. Comprehensive loss isnot separately presented as the amounts are equal to net loss for thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024and2023*. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form10-K for the year ended* September 30, 2023filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on January 16, 2024.*
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Reverse Stock Splits
During the calendar year ended* December 31, 2023,we completed3* reverse stock splits in order to regain compliance with NASDAQ Listing Rule5550(a)(2). In* May 2023,we completed a1*-for-25 reverse split of our outstanding shares of common stock. In* August 2023,we completed a1*-for-9 reverse split of our outstanding shares of common stock. In* December 2023,we completed a1*-for-100 reverse split of our outstanding shares of common stock.
On* January 24, 2024,the Company received formal notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC confirming the Company had regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule5550*(a)(2). On* March 6, 2024,the Company received formal notice from Nasdaq confirming that it had regained compliance with the annual shareholder meeting requirement set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule5620*(a).
As a result of the reverse stock splits, the number of shares of common stock that can be issued upon exercise of warrants, preferred stock, and other convertible securities, as well as any commitments to issue securities, that provide for adjustments in the event of a reverse stock split, was appropriately adjusted pursuant to their applicable terms for the reverse stock splits. If applicable, the conversion price for each outstanding share of preferred stock and the exercise price for each outstanding warrant was increased, pursuant to their terms, in inverse proportion to the split ratio such that upon conversion or exercise, the aggregate conversion price for conversion of preferred stock and the aggregate exercise price payable by the warrant holder to the Company for shares of common stock subject to such warrant will remain approximately the same as the aggregate conversion or exercise price, as applicable, prior to the reverse stock splits. The reverse stock splits didnot change the authorized number of shares or the par value of the common stock nor modified any voting rights of the common stock.
No proportionate adjustment was made to the number of shares reserved for issuance pursuant to the Company’s2022 Equity Incentive Plan (the*“2022* Plan”) pursuant to an amendment to the2022 Plan approved by stockholders in* August 2023,increasing the maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock and stock equivalents available for the grant of awards under the2022* Plan by an additional 52,000,000 shares, which amount isnot subject to any decrease or increase in the number shares of common stock resulting from a stock spilt, reverse stock split, recapitalization, combination, reclassification, the payment of a stock dividend on the common stock or any other decrease in the number of such shares of common stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company.
No fractional shares were issued in connection with the reverse stock splits. All shares of common stock that were held by a stockholder were aggregated subsequent to the reverse stock split and each fractional share resulting from such aggregation held by a stockholder was rounded up to the next whole share. As a result, an additional 321,048 shares were issued for the benefit of stockholders that would otherwise obtain fractional shares upon reverse stock split in* December 2023.*
The number and par value of Series A Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock and Series D Preferred Stock werenot affected by the reverse stock splits, but their conversion ratios have been proportionally adjusted. There wereno outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock as of the effective date of the reverse stock splits.
The Company retroactively adjusted its historical financial statements to reflect the reverse stock splits (SeeNote10** - Loss per sharefor reverse stock splits effect on loss per share). All issued and outstanding common stock and per share amounts contained in the financial statements have been adjusted to reflect the reverse stock splits for all periods presented. The common stock and additional paid-in-capital line items of the financial statements were adjusted to account for the reverse stock splits for all periods presented (with $833,431 value of common stock decreased and additional paid-in-capital increased on* September 30, 2022).*
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NOTE 2 –** LIQUIDITY, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND GOING CONCERN**
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the basis that assumes the Company will continue as a going concern which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities and commitments in the ordinary course of business.
During thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*, the COVID-19 pandemic didnot have a material impact on our operating results. The Company hasnot observed any impairments of its assets or a significant change in the fair value of its assets due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At this time, it isnot possible for the Company to predict the duration or magnitude of the adverse results of the outbreak and its effects on the Company’s business or results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.
The Company evaluated whether there are any conditions and events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern over the nexttwelve months from the date of filing this report. The Company's principal source of liquidity consists of existing cash and restricted cash of approximately $4.0 million as of* June 30, 2024*. During thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*, the Company used approximately $145.2 million of cash for operating activities. The net working capital deficit on* June 30, 2024* amounted to approximately $59.0 million, or $10.4 million after excluding derivative and warrant liabilities, Series E Preferred Stock liability, ELOC commitment fees, and liabilities to issue stock that* maybe settled by issuing common stock, rather than cash. For thenine* months ended* June 30, 2024*, the Company incurred a net loss of $327.0 million and, and as of* June 30, 2024*, our accumulated deficit was $2,143.3 million. There is substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern because the cash on hand is insufficient to meet its working capital and capital expenditure requirements for a period of at leasttwelve months from the date of the filing of this Form10-Q.
If the Company doesnot secure adequate funding to fulfill its current liabilities, it anticipates seeking bankruptcy protection in various jurisdictions within30 days of publishing these financial statements. The Company is actively pursuing additional funds. However, there isno guarantee that the Company will be able to restructure its debts and/or secure the necessary financing on favorable terms.
NOTE 3 –** SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
Significant accounting policies are defined as those that reflect significant judgments and uncertainties, and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. See our2023 Annual Report for a detailed discussion of our significant accounting policies.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the dates of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of total expenses in the reporting periods. Estimates are used for, butnot limited to, cash flow projections and discount rates for the calculation of goodwill impairment, fair value, and impairment of long-lived assets, including intangible assets, inventory reserves, accrued expenses, fair value of financial instruments, depreciable lives of property and equipment, income taxes, contingencies, valuation of preferred stock and warrants. Additionally, the rates of interest on several debt agreements have been imputed where there wasno stated interest rate within the original agreement. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for carrying values of assets and liabilities and the recording of costs and expenses that arenot readily apparent from other sources. The actual results* may*differ materially from these estimates.
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Risks and Uncertainties
We operate within an industry that is subject to rapid technological change, intense competition, and significant government regulation. It is subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including competitive, financial, developmental, operational, technological, required knowledge of industry governmental regulations, and other risks associated with an emerging business. The Company is dependent on its suppliers, including single-source suppliers. It depends on the ability of these suppliers to deliver the necessary components of our products in a timely manner at prices, quality levels, and volumes acceptable to us. Anyone or combination of these or other risks could have a substantial impact on our future operations and prospects for commercial success.
Business Combination
Business acquisitions are accounted for in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”)805 “Business Combinations”. FASB ASC805 requires the reporting entity to identify the acquirer, determine the acquisition date, recognize and measure the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity, and recognize and measure goodwill or a gain from the purchase. The acquiree’s results are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their fair values, and the excess of the purchase price over the amounts assigned is recorded as goodwill. Adjustments to fair value assessments are recorded to goodwill over the measurement period (not longer thantwelve months). The acquisition method also requires that acquisition-related transaction and post-acquisition restructuring costs be charged to expense.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity (generally, with original maturities ofthree months or less) that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates.
Restricted Cash
Cash obtained from customer deposits is held by the Company and is restricted from use to fund operations. Refundable deposits were $414.5 thousand as of* June 30, 2024*.
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses consist of various advance payments made for goods or services to be received in the future.
Inventory
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value and consist of raw materials, work in progress, and finished goods. The cost of inventories is determined using the standard cost method, which approximates actual cost on afirst-in,first-out basis. This method includes direct materials, direct labor, and a proportionate share of manufacturing overhead costs based on normal capacity. Regular reviews are performed to identify and account for variances between the standard costs and actual costs. Any variances identified are recognized in the cost of revenues during the period in which they occur.
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The Company regularly reviews its inventories for excess and obsolete items by assessing their net realizable value ("NRV"). The NRV is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This analysis considers demand forecasts, product life cycles, product development plans, and current market conditions. Allowance is recognized to reduce the carrying value of the inventories to their net realizable value. Once inventory is written down, a new, lower-cost basis is established, and the inventory isnot subsequently written up if market conditions improve. All such inventory write-downs are included as a component of the cost of revenues in the period in which the write-down occurs. Adjustments to these estimates and assumptions could impact our financial position and results of operations.
Property, Plant, and Equipment, net
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated economic useful lives of the assets. Repairs and maintenance expenditures that donot extend the useful lives of related assets are expensed as incurred.
Estimated Useful Lives
| Description | Estimated useful lives |
|---|---|
| Buildings | 20 to 30 years |
| Furniture and equipment | 3 to 7 years |
| Computer and software | 1 to 5 years |
| Machinery, shop and testing equipment | 3 to 7 years |
| Leasehold improvements | Shorter of the estimated useful life or the underlying lease term |
| Vehicles | 5 years |
| Intangibles | 5 to 10 years |
Expenditures for major improvements are capitalized, while minor replacements, maintenance, and repairs, which donot extend the asset lives, are charged to operations as incurred. Upon sale or disposition, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in operations. Company management continually monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that the carrying balances of its property, plant, and equipment* may**not* be recoverable in accordance with the provisions of ASC360, “Property, Plant, and Equipment.”* *When such events or changes in circumstances are present, we assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the total of the future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are recorded in accordance with ASC740**, "Income Taxes". The Company and its less than100% owned subsidiaries are filing separate tax returns, and we calculate the provision for income taxes by using a “separate return” method. Section174 deduction and R&D credits are calculated using consolidated tax return rules and are allocated among its members. Tax effects of significant unusual or infrequently occurring items are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate calculation and recognized in the interim period in which they occur.
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events included in the consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the consolidated financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are provided if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely thannot that some or all of the deferred tax assets willnot be realized.
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Uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return are accounted for using the “more likely thannot” threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement. These are transactions that occur during the ordinary course of business for which the ultimate tax determination* maybe uncertain. As of June 30, 2024and2023*, there wereno material uncertain tax positions.
The Company’s income tax provision consists of an estimate for U.S. federal and state income taxes based on enacted rates, as adjusted for allowable credits, deductions, uncertain tax positions, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities, and changes in the tax law. We maintain a full valuation allowance against the value of our U.S. and state net deferred tax assets because the recoverability of the tax assets doesnot meet the “more likely thannot” requirement as of* June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023*.
Intangible Assets, net
Intangible assets consist of acquired and developed intellectual property. In accordance with ASC350, “Intangibles—Goodwill and Others,”* goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives (including in-process research and development assets acquired in a business combination) arenot* subject to amortization but are tested for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.
Intangible assets with determinate lives are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount* may**not* be recoverable. Amortizable intangible assets generally are amortized on a straight-line basis over periods up to120 months. The costs to periodically renew our intangible assets are expensed as incurred.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company periodically evaluates long-lived assets (both intangible assets and property, plant, and equipment) for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a potential impairment* mayhave occurred. If such events or changes in circumstances arise, the Company compares the carrying amount of the long-lived assets to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the long-lived assets. If the estimated aggregate undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the long-lived assets, an impairment charge, calculated as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets, is recorded. The fair value of the long-lived assets is determined based on the estimated discounted cash flows expected to be generated from the long-lived asset unless another method provides a more reliable estimate. If an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of a long-lived asset is recognized as a new cost basis of the impaired asset. Impairment loss isnot* reversed even if fair value exceeds the carrying amount in subsequent periods.
Extinguishment of Liabilities
The Company derecognizes financial liabilities when the Company’s obligations are discharged, canceled, or expired.
Leases
The Company follows the provisions of ASC842, “Leases,” which requires a lessee to recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying leased asset for the lease term. We categorize leases with contractual terms longer thantwelve months as either operating or finance. Finance leases are generally those leases that allow us to substantially utilize or pay for the entire asset over its estimated life. All other leases are categorized as operating leases. Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives. Lease assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives, plus any direct costs from executing the leases or lease prepayments reclassified upon lease commencement. When we have the option to extend the lease term, terminate the lease before the contractual expiration date, or purchase the leased asset, and it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option, we consider the option in determining the classification and measurement of the lease. Our leases* may*include variable payments, which are expensed as incurred. Costs associated with operating lease assets are recognized on a straight-line basis within operating expenses over the term of the lease.
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Contingencies and Commitments
The Company follows ASC440 and ASC450 to account for contingencies and commitments. Certain conditions, as a result of past events,* mayexist as of the balance sheet date, which mayresult in a loss to the Company, but which will only be resolved whenone* or more future events occur or fail to occur. The Company assesses such contingent liabilities, and such assessment inherently involves an exercise of judgment. In assessing loss contingencies related to legal proceedings that are pending against the Company or unasserted claims that* may*result in such proceedings, the Company evaluates the perceived merits of any legal proceedings or unasserted claims as well as the perceived merits of the amount of relief sought or expected to be sought therein.
If the assessment of a contingency indicates that it is probable that a material loss has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, then the estimated liability is accrued in the Company’s financial statements. If the assessment indicates that a potential material loss contingency isnot probable but is reasonably possible or is probable but cannot be reasonably estimated, then the nature of the contingent liability and an estimate of the range of possible losses, if determinable and material, would be disclosed. Legal costs associated with such loss contingencies are expensed as incurred. Loss contingencies considered remote are generallynot disclosed unless they involve guarantees, in which case the guarantees would be disclosed.
Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses are expenses that have been incurred butnot yet billed and paid and are classified within current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Revenue Recognition
The Company’s revenue includes revenue from the sale of electric vehicles and is accounted for in accordance with ASC606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” The Company applies afive-step analysis to (i) identify the contract with a customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when, or as, the Company satisfies a performance obligation. Payments for electric vehicle sales are generally received at or shortly after delivery. Sales tax is excluded from the measurement of the transaction price. The revenue from the sale of electric vehicles is recognized when control of the vehicle is transferred to the customer. In general, the control is transferred at the point of delivery to the customer, signifying the fulfillment of our primary performance obligation under ASC606. Certain contracts with our dealers contain a return provision stating that they* mayreturn unsold vehicles after1* year. Since the Company doesnot have sufficient relevant statistics of returns yet, we defer revenue recognition until such dealer has sold the vehicles or until there is sufficient evidence to justify a reasonable estimate for consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled. For any amounts received (or receivable) for which the Company doesnot recognize revenue when it transfers products to customers, a refund liability is recognized. Relevant vehicles transferred to the dealer are presented as “Finished goods delivered to dealer for distribution” in the consolidated balance sheets at initial cost, less any expected costs to recover those products (including potential decreases in the value to the entity of returned products). At the end of each reporting period, the Company updates the measurement of these assets and refund liabilities. The Company didnot generate any significant revenue from its core business operations during thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024*.
The cost of revenues primarily includes vehicle components and parts, labor costs, and other relevant costs and expenses applicable to sales and revenues, such as provisions for estimated warranty expenses and an allowance to adjust the value of inventories to net realizable value.
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses include expensesnot related to production, such as salaries and employee benefits, professional fees, rent, repairs and maintenance, utilities and office expenses, depreciation and amortization, advertising and marketing, settlements and penalties, taxes, and licenses. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses. Trade show expenses are deferred until the occurrence of the future event in accordance with ASC720‑35, “Other Expenses –* Advertising Cost.” Advertising costs for thethree* andnine months ended* June 30, 2024* were approximately $2.6 million and $16.2 million, respectively.
Research and Development Costs
Per ASC730, "Research and Development," the Company recognizes all research and development costs in the statement of operations as they occur. These include expenses related to the design, development, testing, and improvement of our electric vehicles and corresponding technologies. Assets with alternative future uses are capitalized and depreciated over their useful lives, with the depreciation expense reported under research and development costs.
Share-Based Compensation
The share-based awards issued by the Company are accounted for in accordance with ASC Subtopic718-10, “Compensation –* Share Compensation*,” which requires fair value measurement on the grant date and recognition of compensation expense for all shares of common stock of the Company issued to employees, non-employees, and directors. Generally, the fair value of awards is estimated based on the market price of the shares of common stock of the Company the day immediately preceding the grant date. The fair value of non-marketable share-based awards (granted to employees before the Company became public) was based on an independent valuation. The Company recognizes forfeitures of awards in the periods they occur.
The overwhelming part of share-based awards to employees per employment contracts and a certain part of contracts with non-employees (consultants) are classified as equity with costs and additional paid-in capital recognized over the service period. A significant part of the Company’s share-based awards to consultants is liability-classified: mainly if the number of shares a consultant is entitled to depends on a certain monetary value fixed in the contract. An accrued part of liability, in this case, is revalued each period based on an earned portion of the grant and changes in the market price of the shares of common stock of the Company until a sufficient number of shares is issued.
The Company has also adopted incentive plans that entitle the Chief Executive Officer to share-based awards generally calculated as 1-3% of the outstanding number of shares of common stock, issuable upon achievement of specific financial and operational targets (milestones). This share-based compensation is accrued over the service term when it is probable that the milestone will be achieved. The liability to issue stock (presented within non-current liabilities if the achievement is expected later than12 months after the balance sheet date) is revalued on every balance sheet date based on the length of the service period, the current market price of the common stock and on the number of shares of common stock outstanding – until the shares have been issued, or until fulfilling the milestone requirements becomes unlikely.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
We apply fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities that are required to be recorded at fair value, Company management considers the principal or most advantageous market in which we would transact and the market-based risk measurements or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, such as risks inherent in valuation techniques, transfer restrictions and credit risk.
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Fair value is estimated by applying the hierarchy as per requirements of ASC820, “Fair value measurements”, i.e.:
| ● | Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. |
| ● | Level 2 – Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets with insufficient volume or infrequent transactions (less active markets); or model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. |
| ● | Level 3 – Unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant to the measurement of fair value of assets or liabilities. |
To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, determining fair value requires more judgment. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value* may*fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement is disclosed is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Expected credit losses
The estimation of expected credit losses that* maybe incurred as we work through the invoice collection process with our customers and other counterparties requires us to make judgments and estimates regarding the probability the amounts due to us are going to be paid. We monitor our customers' payment history and current creditworthiness to determine that collectability is reasonably assured. We also consider the overall business climate in which our customers and other counterparties operate. On June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023*,no material allowance for credit losses was needed to be recognized to cover anticipated credit losses under current conditions. However, uncertainties regarding changes in the financial condition of our counterparties, either adverse or positive, could impact the amount and timing of any additional credit losses that* may*be recognized.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
The Company maintains cash balances in several financial institutions that are insured by either the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Association up to certain federal limitations, generally*$250,000.* At times, our cash balance* mayexceed these federal limitations. However, we havenot* experienced any losses in such accounts, and management believes we arenot exposed to any significant credit risk on these accounts due to the high credit rating of relevant financial institutions. The amounts in excess of insured limits as of* June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023* are $3.0 million and $154.9 million, respectively.
Accounting Pronouncements
The Company has implemented all applicable accounting pronouncements that are in effect. The Company has recently adopted the following pronouncements:
ASU2022-04 -Supplier Finance Program (SFP). This ASU requires that a buyer in an SFP disclose qualitative and quantitative information about its program, including the nature of the SFP and key terms, outstanding amounts as of the end of the reporting period, and presentation in its financial statements. This pronouncement hasnot impacted the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
ASU2016-13 -Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (CECL). This guidance, commonly referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss (“CECL”), changes impairment recognition to a model that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. The measurement of expected credit losses under the CECL methodology is applicable to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including trade receivables. The Company evaluated and determined the amendment didnot have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
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The following are accounting pronouncements that have been issued but arenot yet effective for the Company’s consolidated financial statements:
In* August 2020,the FASB issued ASUNo.* 2020-06, Debt—Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic470-20), and Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic815-40):Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity. The amendments in ASUNo. 2020-06 simplify the complexity associated with applying GAAP for certain financial instruments with characteristics of liabilities and equity. More specifically, the amendments focus on the guidance for convertible instruments and derivative scope exceptions for contracts in an entity’s own equity. For smaller reporting companies, ASU2020-06 is effective for fiscal years beginning after* December 15, 2023,including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is examining the impact this pronouncement may*have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In* November 2023,the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update2023*-07—**Segment Reporting (Topic280*): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures.It requires all annual disclosures currently required by ASC280* to be included in interim periods. It requires disclosure of significant segment expenses regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), a description of other segment items by reportable segment, and applicable additional measures of segment profit or loss used by the CODM when allocating resources and assessing business performance. All public entities will be required to report segment information in accordance with the new guidance starting in annual periods beginning after* December 15, 2023.*The Company expects to enhance segment reporting disclosures based on new requirements.
In* December 2023,the FASB issued ASUNo.* 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures." ASUNo. 2023-09, which enhances the transparency, effectiveness, and comparability of income tax disclosures by requiring consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information related to income tax rate reconciliations and the jurisdictions in which income taxes are paid. The guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after* December 15, 2024,*with early adoption permitted. The Company expects to enhance income tax disclosures based on new requirements.
Other accounting pronouncements issued butnot yet effective arenot believed by management to be relevant or to have a material impact on the Company’s present or future consolidated financial statements.
NOTE4 – SEGMENT INFORMATION
Our CEO and Chairman of the Board, as the chief operating decision maker, makes decisions about resources to be acquired, allocated, and utilized for each operating segment. The Company is currently comprised of 2 major operating segments:
| ● | Bollinger. The Company acquired the controlling interest of Bollinger Motors Inc. (60% on a fully diluted basis) on September 7, 2022. This acquisition positions Mullen into the medium duty truck classes 4-6 EV segments. |
| ● | Mullen/ELMS. By November 30, 2022, Mullen acquired ELMS’ manufacturing plant in Mishawaka Indiana and all the intellectual property needed to engineer and build Class 1 and Class 3 electric vehicles. |
All long-lived assets of the Company are in the United States of America.
The table below represents the main financial information pertaining to the segments (there wereno material differences from the last annual report regarding segmentation or measuring segment profit or loss).
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| Bollinger | Mullen/ELMS | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2024 | $— | $65,235 | $65,235 |
| Revenue for the nine months ended June 30, 2024 | — | 98,570 | 98,570 |
| Segment's net loss before impairment and income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2024 | (10,669,490) | (80,927,863) | (91,597,353) |
| Segment's net loss before impairment and income taxes for the nine months ended June 30, 2024 | (29,877,457) | (195,505,316) | (225,382,773) |
| Segment's net loss before income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2024 | (10,669,490) | (80,957,923) | (91,627,413) |
| Segment's net loss before income taxes for the nine months ended June 30, 2024 | (118,383,314) | (212,491,026) | (330,874,340) |
| Total segment assets | 51,366,330 | 140,963,436 | 192,329,766 |
| Bollinger | Mullen/ELMS | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2023 | $— | $308,000 | $308,000 |
| Segment's net loss before income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2023 | (3,581,662) | (307,388,507) | (310,970,169) |
| Segment's net loss before income taxes for the nine months ended June 30, 2023 | (17,390,822) | (789,925,204) | (807,316,026) |
| Total segment assets | 246,933,087 | 313,042,431 | 559,975,518 |
NOTE 5 –** INVENTORY**
The Company's inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value and consist of the following:
| June 30, 2024 | September 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory | ||
| Raw materials | $21,134,725 | $13,733,385 |
| Work in process | 6,737,094 | 3,136,590 |
| Finished goods | 300,665 | — |
| Finished goods delivered to dealer for distribution | 9,662,400 | 937,322 |
| Less: inventory write down to net realizable value | — | (1,000,284) |
| Total Inventory | $37,834,884 | $16,807,013 |
During thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*, approximately $1.0 million of the Company's inventories was consumed for R&D activities, which was recognized as part of research and development expense in the consolidated statement of operations.
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NOTE 6 –** GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS**
Goodwill
The goodwill net carrying amounts of $0 and $28,846,832 as of* June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023,respectively, pertain to the Bollinger Motors Inc. acquisition on September 7, 2022.Goodwill isnot* amortized and is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment. Upon the quantitative goodwill impairment test, an impairment* mayarise because the carrying amount of a reporting unit that includes goodwill (i.e., Bollinger production unit, seeNote4 – Segment information*) exceeds its fair value. Management performed an impairment test on* March 31, 2024,and recognized impairment in the amount of $28,846,832 in the financial statements, mainly due to the uncertainty of future funding required to support Bollinger Motors' business operations and the decrease in the Company's market capitalization. As of June 30, 2024*, the goodwill has been fully impaired.
Other intangible assets
Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives arenot amortized but instead tested for impairment. Due to unfavorable market conditions and the decline of market prices of the Company’s common stock, we have tested indefinite-lived in-process research and development assets acquired in* September 2022as part of the Bollinger segment (seeNote4 - Segment information*) for recoverability on* March 31, 2024and recognized impairment loss in amount of $58,304,612, mainly due to the uncertainty of future fundings required to support the business and decrease of Company's market capitalization. No additional impairment has been recognized based on tests performed as of June 30, 2024*.
Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over the period of estimated benefit using the straight-line method. The weighted average useful life of intangible assets is 8.1 years. The straight-line method of amortization represents management’s best estimate of the distribution of the economic value of the intangible assets. An impairment loss in the amount of $15,142,455 was recognized in respect of the intangible assets of the ELMS/Legacy Mullen segment (engineering designs) on* March 31, 2024 -mainly due to performance misses compared to the previous budgets. Their accumulated amortization in the amount of $1,057,877 was derecognized in correspondence with the initial cost to present the new cost basis of these assets in accordance with ASC350*-30. No additional impairment has been recognized based on tests performed as of* June 30, 2024*.
| June 30, 2024 · September 30, 2023 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net | Net | |||||
| Cost | Accumulated | Carrying | Cost | Accumulated | Carrying | |
| Basis | Amortization | Amount | Basis | Amortization | Amount | |
| Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | ||||||
| Patents | $32,447,460 | $(5,881,476) | 26,565,984 | $31,708,460 | $(3,445,694) | $28,262,766 |
| Engineering designs | — | — | — | 16,200,332 | (184,274) | 16,016,058 |
| Other | 745,947 | (270,584) | 475,363 | 745,947 | (158,590) | 587,357 |
| Trademarks | 1,095,693 | (197,934) | 897,759 | 1,180,138 | (115,682) | 1,064,456 |
| Total finite-lived intangible assets | 34,289,100 | (6,349,994) | 27,939,106 | 49,834,877 | (3,904,240) | 45,930,637 |
| Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets | ||||||
| In-process research and development assets | $— | $— | $— | $58,304,612 | $— | $58,304,612 |
| Total indefinite-lived intangible assets | — | — | — | 58,304,612 | — | 58,304,612 |
| Total Intangible Assets | $34,289,100 | $(6,349,994) | $27,939,106 | $108,139,489 | $(3,904,240) | $104,235,249 |
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Total future amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets is as follows:
| Years Ended September 30, | Future Amortization |
|---|---|
| 2024 (3 months) | $868,642 |
| 2025 | 3,484,113 |
| 2026 | 3,484,113 |
| 2027 | 3,493,695 |
| 2028 | 3,363,505 |
| Thereafter | 13,245,038 |
| Total Future Amortization | $27,939,106 |
For thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024*, amortization of the intangible assets was $873,476 and $3,503,631, and it was $913,061 and $4,433,035 for thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2023*, respectively.
NOTE 7 –** DEBT**
Short and Long-Term Debt
Short-term debt is defined as debt with principal maturities ofone year or less from the balance sheet date; long-term debt has maturities greater thanone year, in addition to loans that have matured and remain unpaid.
The following is a summary of our indebtedness as of* June 30, 2024*:
| Net Carrying Value | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unpaid Principal · Contractual · Contractual | ||||||
| Type of Debt · Balance · Current · Long-Term · Interest Rate · Maturity | ||||||
| Matured notes | $2,385,004 | $2,385,004 | $— | 0.00 - 10.00% | 2019 - 2021 | |
| Matured loan advances | 332,800 | 332,800 | — | 0.00 - 10.00% | 2016 - 2018 | |
| Convertible notes | 5,021,891 | 5,021,891 | — | 15% | September, 2024 | |
| Less: debt discount to convertible notes | (5,007,305) | (5,007,305) | — | September, 2024 | ||
| Total Debt | $2,732,390 | $2,732,390 | $— | |||
The following is a summary of our indebtedness as of* September 30, 2023*:
| Net Carrying Value | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unpaid Principal · Contractual · Contractual | |||||
| Type of Debt | Balance | Current | Long-Term | Interest Rate | Maturity |
| Matured notes | $2,398,881 | $2,398,881 | $— | 0.00 - 10.00% | 2019 - 2021 |
| Real estate note | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | — | 8.99% | 2024 |
| Matured loan advances | 332,800 | 332,800 | — | 0.00 - 10.00% | 2016 – 2018 |
| Less: debt discount | (270,189) | (270,189) | — | ||
| Total Debt | $7,461,492 | $7,461,492 | $— | ||
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Scheduled Debt Maturities
The following are scheduled debt maturities as of* June 30, 2024*:
| Year Ended September 30, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (3 months) | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | Total | |
| Total Debt due (excluding debt discount) | $7,739,695 | $— | $— | $— | $— | $7,739,695 |
Accrued interest
As of* June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023*, accrued interest on outstanding notes payable was $1,751,479 and $1,548,723, respectively.
Non-convertible promissory note (terminated)
On* December 18, 2023,Mullen entered into a Debt Agreement to issue a non-convertible secured promissory note (the “Note”) with a principal amount of $50 million, purchased for $32 million, reflecting an $18 million original issue discount. The issuance of this non-convertible Note was expected on thefirst* trading day when all closing conditions are met. The Note contemplated 10% annual interest, escalating to 18% post-Event of Default. It would maturethree months post-issuance. The Note's terms allowed for accelerated repayment upon default, requiring the Company to pay the principal, accrued interest, and other due amounts. The Note was supposed to be secured by the Company’s assets and impose restrictions on the Company, limiting additional debt, asset liens, stock repurchases, outstanding debt repayment, and affiliate transactions, except for specified exceptions. It mandated prepayment of the principal from net proceeds of any subsequent financing. The funds contemplated by the Debt Agreement havenot been received, and on* May 7, 2024,*the Debt Agreement was terminated.
The $18 million original issue discount was considered a settlement cost related to a dispute over financings that occurred during the fiscal year ending* September 30, 2023.The costs have been accrued as of September 30, 2023.Since the loss isno* longer probable, the accrual was credited to "Settlements and penalties" of the operating expenses (seeNote16—Operating Expenses) in the quarter ending June 30, 2024.
Series D Convertible Notes
On* November 14, 2022,the Company entered into AmendmentNo.* 3 (“AmendmentNo. 3”) to the* June 7, 2022,*Securities Purchase Agreement (as amended, the “Series D SPA”). The investors paid $150 million. Instead of receiving shares of Series D Preferred Stock and warrants, they received notes convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock (“Notes”) and warrants.
AmendmentNo. 3 further provided that the remaining $90 million of the commitment amount will be paid in thefirst half of2023 intwo tranches. The purchase price per share of Series D Preferred Stock would be the lower of (i) $1.27 ($28,575 after reverse stock splits, seeNote1* - Description of Business and Basis of Presentation*), the closing price of the Company’s stock on the date the Securities Purchase Agreement was executed, or (ii) the closing price of the common stock on the trading day immediately preceding the respective purchase date, subject to a floor price of $0.10 per share. Forno additional consideration, for every share of Series D Preferred Stock purchased, investors received warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 185% of the number of shares of Series D Preferred Stock purchased by the investors at an exercise price equal to the purchase price for shares of Series D Preferred Stock (the warrants also permit cashless exercise). The Company exercised its right and received these investments in* Apriland June 2023,seeNote8 - Warrants and Other Derivative Liabilities and Fair Value Measurements.*
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On* November 15, 2022,the Company issued the unsecured convertible Notes aggregating $150,000,000 in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock. The Notes bore interest at 15% and were convertible into shares of common stock either: (A) at the option of the noteholder at the lower of (i) $0.303 (to be adjusted to stock splits); or (ii) the closing price of our common stock on January 3, 2023;or (B) mandatorily on November 21, 2022,at the lower of (i) $0.303 ($6,818 after reverse stock splits, seeNote1 – Description of Business and Basis of Presentation); or (ii) the closing price of our common stock on November 18, 2022,provided adequate unissued authorized shares were available. For each share issued upon conversion, the holders were entitled to 1.85 times as manyfive*-year warrants with an exercise price equal to the conversion price for the Notes.
As a result, and since the Company had an insufficient number of authorized shares available to settle potential future warrant exercises, the Company recognized a derivative liability of $244,510,164 for the warrants with a corresponding increase in debt discount of $150,000,000 and interest expense of $94,510,164 (presented combined in the Statement of Operations as "Other financing costs - initial recognition of derivative liabilities"). The debt discount was amortized over the term of the Note through the date the convertible notes were mandatorily convertible. Accordingly, the entire amount was expensed in thefirst quarter of the year ended* September 30, 2023.On November 21, 2022,*the principal of $59,402,877 was mandatorily converted into 9,815 shares of common stock.
On* December 23, 2022,the Company defaulted on the Notes bynot* having sufficient authorized shares to allow for both the Notes to be fully converted and the warrants to be exercised. On* January 13, 2023,the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release in which investors waived the default prior to February 1, 2023.In exchange, the Company granted the investors the right to purchase additional shares of Series D Preferred Stock and warrants in an amount equal to such investor’s pro rata portion of $10 million. This right expired on June 30, 2023.*
In* February 2023,the holders converted the remaining balance of the Notes (with the principal of $90,362,418) and accrued interest (in the amount of $3,456,941) into 13,762 shares of common stock. SeeNote*8**—Warrants and Other Derivative Liabilities and Fair Value Measurements regarding warrants issued upon conversion of these Notes.
$50 Million Senior Secured Convertible Notes and Warrants
On* May 14, 2024,the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Securities Purchase Agreement”) with certain accredited investors for the sale of Senior Secured Convertible Notes ("Convertible Notes") andfive-year warrants exercisable for shares of common stock (the “Warrants”). Upon execution of the Securities Purchase Agreement, investors purchased an initial aggregate principal amount of $13.2 million, or $12.5 million, including the 5% original issue discount, of Convertible Notes (the “Initial Notes”), and also received Warrants exercisable for an aggregate of 4,793,402 shares of common stock (the “Initial Warrants”). Investors were also obligated to purchase an additional principal amount of $39.5 million, or$37.5* million including the 5% original issue discount, of Convertible Notes and related Warrants if (i) the Company has sufficient authorized shares of common stock available to cover250% of the shares of common stock underlying the conversion of the Convertible Notes and exercise of the Warrants, (ii) the common stock has an average daily trading volume of*$3* million in the previousten (10) trading days, (iii) a registration statement covering the shares of common stock underlying the conversion of the Convertible Notes and exercise of the Warrants has been declared effective, (iv) the Company has obtained stockholder approval of the issuance of the Convertible Notes and Warrants in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule5635(d), and (v) the Company is in compliance with the continued listing standards of the Nasdaq Capital Market. Such additional Convertible Notes and Warrants were issued in* July 2024.*
The Convertible Notes accrue interest at 15%, including a 5% Original Issue Discount, and mature infour months from the date of issuance. Upon any event of default, the interest rate automatically increases to 20% per annum. The outstanding principal and accrued but unpaid interest on the Convertible Notes* maybe converted by the holder into shares of common stock at the lower of (i) $5.49, (ii)95% of the closing sale price of the common stock on the date that the Company’s registration statement on Form S-1 is declared effective (i.e. $3.61), or (iii)95% of the lowest daily volume weighted average price in thefive* (5) trading days prior to such conversion date, provided that the conversion price willnot be less than $1.16 per share.
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As security for payment of the amounts due and payable under the Convertible Notes, the Company collaterally assigned and granted to the holders a continuing security interest in all of the Company’s right, title, and interest in, to, and under the property of the Company, whether then or hereafter owned, existing, acquired or arising and wherever then or hereafter located (subject to certain exceptions). The Convertible Notes are senior in right of payment to all other current and future notes to which the Company is a party. The Convertible Notes also impose restrictions on the Company, limiting additional debt, asset liens, stock repurchases, outstanding debt repayment, dividends distribution, and affiliate transactions, except for specified exceptions.
In connection with the issuance of the Convertible Notes, the holders also received5-year warrants exercisable for 200% of the shares of common stock underlying such Convertible Notes at an exercise price equal to 105% of the closing sale price of the common stock on the execution date (i.e.,$6.07), subject to further adjustment. The Warrants also provide for cashless exercise pursuant to which the holder will receive upon exercise a “net number” of shares of common stock determined according to the following formula:
Net Number = (Ax B) / C
For purposes of the foregoing formula:
A= The total number of shares with respect to which the Warrant is then being exercised.
B= The Black Scholes Value (as described below).
C= The lower of thetwo Closing Bid Prices of the common stock in thetwo days prior the time of such exercise (as such Closing Bid Price is defined therein), but in any eventnot less than*$0.10.*
For purposes of the cashless exercise, “Black Scholes Value” means the Black Scholes value of an option forone share of common stock at the date of the applicable cashless exercise. As such, the Black Scholes value is determined and calculated using the Black Scholes Option Pricing Model obtained from the “OV” function on Bloomberg utilizing (i) an underlying price per share equal to the Exercise Price, as adjusted (i.e., $6.07), (ii) a risk-free interest rate corresponding to the U.S. Treasury rate, (iii) a strike price equal to the Exercise Price in effect at the time of the applicable Cashless Exercise (i.e., $6.07), (iv) expected volatility equal to 135%, and (v) a deemed remaining term of the Warrant offive years (regardless of the actual remaining term of the Warrant).
The Company will have the option to require the holders to exercise the Warrants for cash if, at any time, the following conditions are met: (i) the registration statement covering the securities has been declared effective is effective and available for the resale of the securities andno stop-order has been issued nor has the SEC suspended or withdrawn the effectiveness of the registration statement; (ii) the Company isnot in violation of any of the rules, regulations or requirements of, and hasno knowledge of any facts or circumstances that could reasonably lead to suspension in the foreseeable future on, the principal market; and (iii) the VWAP for each trading day during the10 trading day period immediately preceding the date on which the Company elects to exercise this option is250% above the exercise price.
The Convertible Notes and Warrants arenot convertible by a holder to the extent that the holder or any of its affiliates would beneficially own in excess of 9.9% of the common stock.
The Company and the investors also executed a registration rights agreement, pursuant to which the Company agreed to file a registration statement withinfive days following the closing of the Securities Purchase Agreement. Such registration statement registered for resale by the selling stockholders listed therein, up to 20,000,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the Initial Notes and the Initial Warrants, and was declared effective on* May**29,* 2024. In the event that (i) sales cannot be made pursuant to the registration statement or the prospectus contained therein isnot properly available for any reason for more thanfive consecutive calendar days or more than an aggregate of10 calendar days during any12-month period or (ii) a registration statement isnot effective for any reason, or the prospectus contained therein isnot properly available for use for any reason, and the Company fails to file with the SEC any required reports under the Exchange Act, then the Company has agreed (unless the Registrable Securities are freely tradable pursuant to Rule144) to make payments to each investor as liquidated damages in an amount equal to 1.5% of such investor’s total committed purchase price for the registrable securities affected by such failure and an additional 1.5% on every30 day anniversary, with a maximum of12 payments (except with respect to clause (ii). Such payments will bear interest at the rate of 10% per month (prorated for partial months) until paid in full and* may*be paid in shares of common stock at the option of the Company.
23
For a period beginning on* May**14,* 2024, and ending on theone-year anniversary from the later of (i) the date registration statements registering the shares issuable upon conversion of all of the Convertible Notes and exercise of all the Warrants is declared effective or (ii) the date the Company has obtained stockholder approval for the transaction, the investors have the right, butnot the obligation, to purchase an additional $52.6 million of 5% Original Issue Discount Senior Secured Convertible Notes and related Warrants on the same terms and conditions as provided in the Securities Purchase Agreement.
The exercise price and number of shares issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Notes or exercise of the Warrants, as applicable, will further be adjusted upon the occurrence of certain events, and holders will be allowed to participate in certain issuances and distributions (subject to certain limitations and restrictions), including certain stock dividends and splits, dilutive issuances of additional common stock, and dilutive issuances of, or changes in option price or rate of conversion of, options or convertible securities, as well as the issuance of purchase rights or distributions of assets during restricted period. “Restricted period” means the period commencing on the purchase date and ending on the earlier of (i) the date immediately following the90th day after a registration statement registering for the securities has been declared effective by the SEC and (ii) the90th day after the securities purchased are saleable under Rule144 without the requirement for current public information and without volume or manner of sale limitations.
The Convertible Notes and Warrants also provide for certain purchase rights whereby if the Company grants, issues, or sells any options, convertible securities, or rights to purchase stock, warrants, securities, or other property pro rata to the record holders of any class of common stock, then the holder will be entitled to acquire such purchase rights which the holder could have acquired if the holder had held the number of shares of common stock acquirable upon complete exercise of the Warrant.
On* May 14, 2024,*upon execution of the Securities Purchase Agreement, the investors purchased an initial aggregate principal amount of $13.2 million, or $12.5 million, including the 5% original issue discount, of Notes and also received 4,793,402 Warrants.
These warrant liabilities were recognized as liabilities due to requirements of ASC480 as the variable number of shares to be issued upon cashless exercise (deemed the predominant exercise option) was based predominantly on a fixed monetary value. At each warrant exercise date and each accounting period end, the warrant liability for the remaining unexercised warrants is carried forward subsequently at fair value and the gain or loss from revaluation is recorded within the line item "Gain/(loss) on other warrants revaluation". The fair value of the warrants is based on the fair value of the shares they are exercisable into. Upon initial recognition, the warrant liability fair value was $25.9 million. Additionally, we recognized derivative liabilities for $0.5 upon execution of the contract (the company's obligations upon an event of defaultnot connected clearly and closely with general debt obligations). The resulting discount to the carrying amount of the Convertible Notes ($13.2 million) will be amortized over the life of the note and recognized as interest expense under the effective interest method during the4 months ending* September 30, 2024.*Excess of initial fair value of warrants over the amount of cash proceeds for $13.7 million is presented in the consolidated statement of operations as "Other financing costs - initial recognition of warrants".
In* May 2024,*$8.1 million of notes and accumulated interest were converted to 2,281,377 shares of the Company's common stock.
As of* June 30, 2024,the outstanding convertible notes amounted to $5.0 million (with a debt discount to convertible notes of $5.0 million) and were potentially convertible into 2,182,734 shares of common stock. Conversion of the notes depends on the lowest daily volume weighted average price of the Company's common stock ("VWAP"). If the lowest daily VWAP in thefive* trading days prior to* June 30, 2024was $0.1 less, the Company, upon full conversion of outstanding notes, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 97,600 shares more. If the lowest daily VWAP in thefive* trading days prior to* June 30, 2024was$0.1* higher, the Company, upon full conversion of outstanding notes, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 81,500 shares less. The maximum number of shares that could theoretically be issued upon conversion of these notes was 4.6 million (if shareholders’ approval was obtained and the lowest daily VWAP in thefive trading days before such conversion date decreased to or below $1.16).
Outstanding warrants in the amount of 4,793,402 with a carrying value of $25.8 million as of* June 30, 2024,were potentially exercisable into 10,741,234 shares of common stock. Exercise of the warrants depends on closing bid price in the last2* days. If the lowest closing bid price in the last2 days prior to* June 30, 2024was $0.1 less, the Company, upon full exercise of outstanding warrants, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 469,000 shares more. If the lowest closing bid price in the last2* days prior to* June 30, 2024was$0.1* higher, the Company, upon full exercise of outstanding warrants, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 431,400 shares less. The maximum number of shares that could theoretically be issued upon exercise of these warrants was 256.7 million (if shareholder approval was obtained and if the lowest closing bid price in the last2 days before such date decreased to or below $0.1).
Only 17.8 million shares remained registered under S-1 as of* June 30, 2024,*and the Company has reached the limit of issuance of shares without appropriate approval from shareholders (20% limit established by NASDAQ).
The Convertible Notes were in technical default on the balance sheet date because the Company failed to obtain shareholders’ approval by* June 28, 2024,as was required by the contract. This gave investors the right to demand immediate repayment of the outstanding notes.None of the investors utilized this right to accelerate payment. An increased interest rate of20%* was applied until the Company obtained shareholders' approval for this transaction after the balance sheet date on* July 9, 2024.*
The Company also signed a commitment letter agreement with an investor for a total investment of $100 million through the issuance of Senior Secured Convertible Notes and Warrants. The Convertible Notes will accrue interest at 15%, include a 5% Original Issue Discount, and have a maturity offour months. They* maybe issued ineight* tranches of $12.5 million over 13 months. The investor* may*receive a $4 million non-refundable commitment fee, payable in registered common stock. Other conditions are similar to those described above for the $50 million Financing Arrangement. The completion of this transaction remains contingent upon mutual consent and the execution of final documentation by both parties.
NOTE 8 –** WARRANTS AND OTHER DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS**
ASC825-10 defines fair value as the price received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
Financial Instruments at Carrying Value That Approximated Fair Value
Certain financial instrumentsnot carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets are carried at amounts that approximate fair value due to their short-term nature and credit risk. These instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable, and debt. Accounts payable are short-term and generally due upon receipt or within30 to90 days.
Non-Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis
Non-financial assets must be measured at fair value when acquired as part of a business combination or when an impairment loss is recognized. SeeNote 14—Property, Plant, and Equipment andNote6* –Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets for further information. All these valuations are based on Level3—Unobservable* inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant to the measurement of the fair value of these assets or liabilities.
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Financial Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Duringnine months ended* June 30, 2024and2023*, the Company had the following financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
Preferred C Warrants
The warrants, which were exercisable for common stock, were issued in connection with the sale of Series C Preferred Stock (the “Preferred C Warrants”) in accordance with the* November 2021*Merger Agreement and further amendments. They had an exercise price per share of $8.834 (after the reverse stock splits—$198,765) and a cashless exercise option based on a formula established by relevant contracts.
These warrant liabilities were recognized as liabilities due to requirements of ASC480 because the variable number of shares to be issued upon cashless exercise (which was deemed to be the predominant exercise option) was based predominantly on a fixed monetary value. These warrant liabilities were also classified as derivates in accordance with ASC815. At each warrant exercise date and each accounting period end, the warrant liability for the remaining unexercised warrants was carried forward subsequently at fair value.
During the quarter that ended* December 31, 2022,the remaining 132 Preferred C Warrants that were outstanding as of September 30, 2022,*were fully exercised on a cashless basis.
Preferred D Warrants
In accordance with Series D SPA (seeNote7* - Debt*), for every share of Series D Preferred Stock purchased, the investors received 185% (for the final $100 million voluntary investment right expiring* June 30, 2023 -*110%) warrants (the “Preferred D Warrants”) exercisable for shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to the lower of (i) $1.27 (after the reverse stock splits - $28,575) or (ii) the market price of common stock on the trading day immediately preceding the purchase notice date. The Preferred D Warrants are exercisable during afive-year period commencing upon issuance. The contracts for the Preferred D Warrants contain cashless exercise provisions similar to the Preferred C Warrants described above. Therefore, management applied similar accounting treatment to the recognition, measurement, and presentation of the warrant liabilities.
In* September 2022,the Company received an initial investment amount of $35 million (exercise price was $0.4379, or $9,853 after reverse stock splits) and issued to investors 79,926,925 shares of Series D Preferred Stock and 263 Preferred D Warrants (hereinafter warrants and shares of common stock are presented giving effect to the reverse stock splits, seeNote1 – Description of Business and Basis of Presentation). By September 30, 2022,no Preferred D Warrants were exercised, and all Preferred D Warrants remained outstanding, with a fair value of $55,398,551 on September 30, 2022.During the quarter ended December 31, 2022,*all initial Preferred D Warrants were exercised cashless for 10,182 shares of common stock.
In* November 2022,the Company received $150,000,000 and issued notes convertible into shares of common stock and Preferred D Warrants in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock. As a result of the conversion of the convertible debt into shares of common stock in November 2022and February 2023,43,616 Preferred D Warrants were issued. By June 30, 2023,*all these Preferred D Warrants were exercised on a cashless basis for 93,664 shares of common stock.
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During* April 2023,we exercised our investment rights under the Series D SPA and requested an additional $45 million (exercise price was $0.1 or $2,250 after reverse stock splits), issuing to investors:273,363,635 Series D Preferred Stock,7,851 shares of common stock (in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock), and 37,000 Preferred D Warrants (post reverse stock split). The warrant liability recognized initially amounted to $73,260,454. By June 30, 2023,*all these Preferred D Warrants were exercised on a cashless basis for 147,672 shares of common stock (post reverse stock split).
In* June 2023,we exercised thesecond* half of our investment right for $45 million (exercise price was $0.432 or $388.8 after reverse stock splits) and, in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock, investors received:60,778 shares of common stock and 54,962 prefunded warrants exercisable forone share of common stock each, as well as 214,120 Preferred D Warrants.
In* June 2023,*one of the investors exercised their investment rights and invested $7 million (the exercise price was $0.52 or $468 after reverse stock splits). The Company issued, in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock,14,957 shares of common stock and 27,671 Preferred D Warrants.
The pool of investors exercised final voluntary investment rights under the Series D SPA in* June 2023.The Company received $100 million (exercise price was $0.1601, or $144.09 after reverse stock splits, for majority of investors, and $0.1696, or $152.64 after reverse stock splits, forone* investor), issuing to investors, in lieu of Series D Preferred Stock:183,731 shares of common stock and 508,159 prefunded warrants exercisable forone share of common stock each, as well as 761,079 Preferred D Warrants.
Upon initial accounting of these investments, the warrant liability recognized in* June 2023amounted to $254,962,776. By September 30, 2023,*some of these prefunded warrants and Preferred D Warrants were exercised on a cashless basis for 2,194,413 shares of common stock (post reverse stock splits).
As of* September 30, 2023*, none of the prefunded warrants and 382,436 Preferred D Warrants (recognized as liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets) exercisable into 1,438,009 shares of common stock with fair value of $64,739,175 remained outstanding.
During thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*, all remaining Preferred D Warrants were exercised on a cashless basis for 5,552,919 shares of common stock (post reverse stock splits), and there areno more Preferred D Warrants outstanding.
The fair value of warrant obligations was calculated based on the number and market value of shares that can be issued upon the exercise of the warrants. The number of shares to be issued in accordance with relevant agreements is variable. It depends on (i) the lowest closing market price of shares for2 days before the exercise and (ii) the multiplicator calculated based on Black Scholes formula where all elements, except for risk-free rate, are fixed on the investment date. Accordingly, the fair value of warrants on the recognition date and on subsequent dates was estimated as a maximum of (i) Black Scholes value for cash exercise of relevant warrants and (ii) current market value of the number of shares the Company would be required to issue upon cashless warrant exercise on a relevant date in accordance with warrant contract requirements. The latter valuation, based on observable inputs (level2), has been higher and reflects the pattern of the warrants exercise since the inception of the Series D SPA.
At each warrant exercise date and each accounting period end, the warrant liability for the remaining unexercised warrants is restated to current fair value, and the gain or loss from revaluation is recorded in the consolidated statement of operations as a “Gain / (loss) on derivative liability revaluation.”
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All the warrants mentioned in this section provide that if the Company issues or sells, enters into a definitive, binding agreement according to which the Company is required to issue or sell or is deemed, pursuant to the provisions of the warrants, to have issued or sold, any shares of common stock for a price per share lower than the exercise price then in effect, subject to certain limited exceptions. The exercise price of the warrants shall be reduced to such lower price per share. In addition, the exercise price and the number of shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants are subject to adjustment in connection with stock splits, dividends, distributions, or other similar transactions.
Other derivative liabilities
Other derivative liabilities recognized and remeasured subsequently at fair value include embedded derivatives issued with convertible notes (primarily, automatic increase in interest rate upon an event of default and optional conversion features that werenot clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of a debt host), and preferred stock that failed equity presentation when the Company had an insufficient number of authorized shares available to settle all potential future conversion transactions. They were carried at fair value and have been reclassified to equity respectively upon conversion of the notes, and authorization of increase of common stock available for issuance by stockholders of the Company during thethree months ending* March 2023.*
Warrants issued with$50* Million Senior Secured Convertible Notes*
On* May 14, 2024,upon execution of the Securities Purchase Agreement, the investors purchased an initial aggregate principal amount of $13.2 million, or $12.5 million, including the 5% original issue discount, of Notes and also received 4,793,402 warrants. These warrants are recognized and subsequently carried at fair value. More information is presented in theNote7 - Debt,$50 Million Senior Secured Convertible Notes and Warrants.The table below classifies these liabilities as having significant other observable inputs (level2*).
Qiantu Warrants
On* March14,* 2023, the Company entered into an Intellectual Property and Distribution Agreement (the “IP Agreement”) with Qiantu Motor (Suzhou) Ltd. andtwo of Qiantu Suzhou’s affiliates (herein “Qiantu”). Pursuant to the IP Agreement, Qiantu granted the Company the exclusive license to use certain of Qiantu’s trademarks and the exclusive right to assemble, manufacture, and sell the homologated vehicles based on the Qiantu K-50 model throughout North America and South America for a period offive years. As a part of consideration for the Company’s entry into the IP Agreement, the Company issued to Qiantu USA warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Qiantu Warrants”). The Qiantu warrants, per contract, are exercisable at Qiantu USA’s discretion at any time from* September30,* 2023, up to and including* September30,* 2024. The Qiantu Warrants have anti-dilution provisions similar to those described above, but they provide for an exemption for Series D Preferred Stock transaction rights and obligations that existed when the Qiantu Warrants were issued. As it was expected that the Company* maynot* have a sufficient number of authorized shares of common stock available for issuance during the term of the contract (up to* September 2024),and the shares to be issued upon possible exercise of warrants havenot* been registered, the Qiantu Warrants were recognized at fair value on inception ($6,814,000) and on each subsequent period end. Due to the decline in the market price of shares, the fair value of Qiantu Warrants as of* June 30, 2024,decreased to $471,947. The difference was recognized within gains (losses) on derivative liabilities revaluation in the consolidated statements of operations. Upon issuance and revaluation of the instruments, the Company estimated the fair value of these derivatives using the Black-Scholes Pricing Model and binomial option valuation techniques based on the following assumptions: (1) dividend yield of 0%, (2) expected annualized volatility of 198-222%, and (3) risk-free interest rate of 4.3% to 4.7%. The table below classifies these liabilities as having significant unobservable inputs (level3*).
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Liabilities settlement agreement (SCC)
On* May13,* 2024, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement and Stipulation (the “SAS”) with Silverback Capital Corporation (“SCC”), pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue common stock to SCC in exchange for the settlement of an aggregate of $4.6 million (the “Settlement Amount”) to resolve outstanding overdue liabilities with different vendors. On* May29,* 2024, the Circuit Court of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit in and for Manatee County, Florida, entered an order approving, among other things, the fairness of the terms and conditions of an exchange pursuant to Section3(a)(10) of the Securities Act in accordance with a stipulation of settlement, pursuant to the SAS between the Company and SCC. Pursuant to the terms of the SAS approved by the order, the Company agreed to issue to SCC shares (the “Settlement Shares”) of common stock. The price of the Settlement Shares is calculated as75% of the average of the3 lowest prices traded during the valuation period. The Settlement Agreement provides that the Settlement Shares will be issued inone or more tranches, as necessary, sufficient to satisfy the Settlement Amount through the issuance of securities issued pursuant to Section3(a)(10) of the Securities Act.
Upon initial recognition of the transaction, the Company derecognized the liability to vendors in the amount of $4.6 million and recognized derivative liabilities to SCC in the amount of $7.0 million, calculated based on the fair value of the shares of common stock that can be issued to SCC to satisfy the claims. The financial result in the amount of $2.3 million was recognized as "Other financing costs—initial recognition of derivative liabilities" in the consolidated statement of operations.
In connection with the SAS, the Company issued 1,022,500 shares of common stock to settle a part of the liability up to* June 30, 2024.*
As of* June 30, 2024,derivative liabilities to SCC in the amount of $3.1 million remain outstanding, calculated as a fair value of 1,307,172 shares of common stock that could be required to settle an obligation on that date. The table below classifies these liabilities as having significant other observable inputs (level2*). If the average of the3 lowest prices traded during the valuation period were $0.1 less on* June 30, 2024,the Company, upon a request from SCC, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 57,800 shares more. If the average of the3* lowest prices traded during the valuation period were $0.1 higher on* June 30, 2024,the Company, upon a request from SCC, would potentially be liable to issue approximately 53,100 shares more. The maximum number of shares that could theoretically be issued under this contract isnot* explicitly limited. However, SCC* may,*at its discretion, rescind the contract (and the Company will remain liable to vendors for remaining obligations) under certain conditions, including if the market price of the shares drops to or below $2.50.
29
Breakdown of items recorded at fair value on a recurring basis in consolidated balance sheets by levels of observable and unobservable inputs as of* June 30, 2024* and on* September 30, 2023* is presented below:
| Quoted Prices · Significant | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| in Active · Other · Significant | ||||
| Markets for · Observable · Unobservable | ||||
| June 30, | Identical Assets | Inputs | Inputs | |
| 2024 | (Level 1) | (Level 2) | (Level 3) | |
| Liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis | $29,530,178 | $— | $29,058,231 | $471,947 |
| Quoted Prices · Significant | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| in Active · Other · Significant | ||||
| Markets for · Observable · Unobservable | ||||
| September 30, | Identical Assets | Inputs | Inputs | |
| 2023 | (Level 1 ) | (Level 2) | (Level 3) | |
| Liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis | $64,863,309 | $— | $64,739,175 | $124,134 |
A summary of all changes in liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis is presented below:
| Balance, September 30, 2023 | $64,863,309 |
|---|---|
| Derivative liabilities recognized upon issuance of convertible instruments | 2,140,496 |
| Other warrants recognized upon issuance of convertible instruments | 25,861,899 |
| Loss / (gain) on revaluation | 805,135 |
| Conversions of derivatives into common shares | (71,126,401) |
| Derivatives issued upon extinguishment of accounts payable | 6,985,740 |
| Balance, June 30, 2024 | $29,530,178 |
| Balance, September 30, 2022 | $84,799,179 |
| Derivative liabilities recognized upon issuance of convertible instruments | 499,737,254 |
| Derivative liability recognized upon authorized shares shortfall | 11,978,166 |
| Loss / (gain) on derivative liability revaluation | 89,462,559 |
| Reclassification of derivative liabilities to equity upon authorization of sufficient common shares | (47,818,882) |
| Financing loss upon over-issuance of shares from warrants | 8,934,892 |
| Receivables upon over-issuance of shares from warrants | 17,721,868 |
| Reclassification to liability to issue shares upon unfinished warrant exercise on period end | (5,378,806) |
| Conversions of warrants into common shares | (509,117,758) |
| Balance, June 30, 2023 | $150,318,472 |
NOTE 9 –** STOCKHOLDERS**’** EQUITY**
Common Stock
At a special meeting on* January 25, 2023,stockholders approved the proposal to increase the Company’s authorized common stock capital from 1.75 billion to 5 billion shares. At June 30, 2024*, the Company had 5 billion shares of common stock authorized with $0.001 par value per share.
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As described in detail inNote1* - Description of Business and Basis of Presentationabove, by December 31, 2023,the Company has effectuated a series of reverse stock splits. All stock splits resulted in the reduction of shares of common stock issued and outstanding and didnot* affect authorized common stock or preferred stock. The Company had 16,058,994 and 2,871,707 shares of common stock (post reverse stock splits) issued and outstanding on* June 30, 2024* and* September 30, 2023*, respectively.
The holders of common stock are entitled toone vote for each share of common stock held at all meetings of stockholders. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary, the common stockholders are entitled to receive the remaining assets following the distribution of liquidation preferences, if any, to the holders of our preferred stock. The holders of common stock arenot entitled to receive dividends unless declared by our Board. To date,no dividends have been declared or paid to the holders of common stock.
When the Company receives a warrant exercise notice or preferred stock conversion notice close to the balance sheet date and issues a relevant order to a transfer agent, which is effectively exercised only after the balance sheet date, relevant shares of common stock are presented in the balance sheet as common stock owed butnot issued.
Change in Control Agreements
On* August 11, 2023,*the Board of Directors approved, and the Company entered, Change in Control Agreements with each non-employee director and Chief Executive Officer. Pursuant to the Change in Control Agreements with each non-employee director, upon a change in control of the Company, any unvested equity compensation will immediately vest in full and such non-employee director will receive $5 million. Pursuant to the Agreement with CEO, upon a change in control of the Company, any unvested equity compensation will immediately vest in full and CEO will receive an aggregate percentage of the transaction proceeds as follows:10% of the transaction proceeds that are up to and including $1 billion; plus, an additional 5% of transaction proceeds that are more than $1 billion and up to $1.5 billion; and an additional 5% of transaction proceeds that are more than $1.5 billion. A change in control, as defined in the agreements occurs upon (i) any person becoming the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the total voting power of the Company’s then outstanding voting securities, (ii) a change in the composition of the Board, as a result of which fewer than a majority of the directors are Incumbent Directors (as defined in the Change in Control Agreements), or (iii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company (except when the total voting power of the Company continues to represent at least 50% of the surviving entity), any liquidation, or the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of its assets.
Stockholder Rights Agreement
On* May 1, 2024,the Company entered into a Rights Agreement with Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company as the rights agent. The Board of Directors declared a dividend ofone preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each share of common stock and each outstanding share of Preferred Stock Company payable to holders of record as of the close of business on May 13, 2024.Each Right entitles the registered holder to purchaseone ten-thousandth of a share of Series A-1 Junior Participating Preferred Stock (“A-1 Preferred Stock”) of the Company at a price of $30.00 perone ten*-thousandth of a share of A-1 Preferred Stock, subject to adjustment (the “Exercise Price”). The Rights arenot exercisable until the Distribution Date (as defined below). The description and terms of the Rights are set forth in the Rights Agreement.
The Rights willnot be exercisable until the earlier often days after a public announcement by us that a person or group has acquired10% or more of the shares of common stock (an "Acquiring Person") andten business days (or a later date determined by our board of directors) after a person or group begins a tender or an exchange offer that, if completed, would result in that person or group becoming an Acquiring Person (the earlier of such dates being herein referred to as the “Distribution Date”). At any time after a person becomes an Acquiring Person, the Board of Directors* may,at its option, exchange all or any part of the then outstanding and exercisable Rights for shares of common stock at an exchange ratio ofone* share of common stock for each Right, subject to adjustment as specified in the Rights Agreement. Notwithstanding the preceding, the Board of Directors generally willnot be empowered to effect such exchange at any time after any person becomes the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the common stock of the Company. The Rights will expire on* May 1, 2025,unless previously redeemed or exchanged by the Company. The Rights Agreement is designed to enable all Company stockholders to realize the long-term value of their investment and is intended to protect Mullen and its stockholders from efforts by a single stockholder or group to obtain control of the Company without paying a control premium, see below for further details. The Rights have certain anti-takeover effects, including potentially discouraging a takeover that stockholders mayconsider favorable. Certain exemptions mayapply to an Acquiring person. The Rights will cause substantial dilution to a person or group that attempts to acquire us on termsnot* approved by the Board of Directors.
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Preferred Stock
Under the terms of our Certificate of Incorporation, the Board* maydetermine the rights, preferences, and terms of our authorized but unissued shares of Preferred Stock. Pursuant to the terms of its Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock, such shares so converted are cancelled andnot* issuable. As of* July 26, 2022,as a result of an amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation increasing its authorized Preferred Stock, the Company had 500,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock authorized with $0.001 par value per share, and as of June 30, 2024*, pursuant to its terms of Preferred Stock conversion, the Company had remaining 126,263,156 shares of Preferred Stock authorized. The reverse stock splits (seeNote1** -Description of Business and Basis of Presentation above) didnot affect the number of shares of Preferred Stock authorized and outstanding, but the conversion ratios were proportionately adjusted to decrease the number of shares of common stock to be issued as a result.
The Company has designated Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, Series C Preferred Stock, and Series D Preferred Stock (see description below), Series E Preferred Stock (seeNote18—Series* E Preferred Stock*), Series AA Preferred Stock (cancelled), and Series A-1 Junior Participating Preferred Stock (seeStockholder Rights Agreementabove).
Transactions with Preferred Stock during thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024* and during thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2023* are presented in the table below. For more information on extinguishment of Series C Preferred Stock and issuance of Series E Preferred Stock, please seeNote18* – Series E Preferred Stock*.
| Preferred Stock · Preferred Stock · Preferred Stock · Preferred Stock · Preferred Stock | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total | Series A | Series C | Series D | Series AA | ||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |
| Balance, October 1, 2023 | 1,575,502 | $1,576 | 648 | $1 | 1,211,757 | $1,212 | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
| Extinguishment of Series C P/S by issuance of Series E P/S | (1,211,299) | (1,212) | — | — | (1,211,299) | (1,212) | — | — | — | — |
| Balance, June 30, 2024 | 364,203 | $364 | 648 | $1 | 458 | $— | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
| Balance, April 1, 2024 | 1,575,502 | $1,576 | 648 | $1 | 1,211,757 | $1,212 | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
| Extinguishment of Series C P/S by issuance of Series E P/S | (1,211,299) | (1,212) | — | — | (1,211,299) | (1,212) | — | — | — | — |
| Balance, June 30, 2024 | 364,203 | $364 | 648 | $1 | 458 | $— | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
| Balance, October 1, 2022 | 5,721,897 | $5,721 | 1,924 | $2 | 1,360,321 | $1,360 | 4,359,652 | $4,360 | — | $— |
| Issuance of preferred stock, common stock and prefunded warrants in lieu of preferred stock | 273,363,635 | 273,364 | — | — | — | — | 273,363,635 | 273,364 | — | — |
| Issuance of common stock for conversion of preferred stock and dividends | (277,511,343) | (277,510) | (888) | (1) | (150,265) | (149) | (277,360,190) | (277,360) | — | — |
| Preferred shares series AA issued to officers | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | — |
| Preferred shares series AA refund | (1) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | (1) | — |
| Balance, June 30, 2023 | 1,574,189 | $1,574 | 1,036 | $1 | 1,210,056 | $1,210 | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
| Balance, April 1, 2023 | 1,574,580 | $1,575 | 1,426 | $2 | 1,210,056 | $1,210 | 363,098 | $363 | — | $— |
| Issuance of preferred stock, common stock and prefunded warrants in lieu of preferred stock | 273,363,635 | 273,364 | — | — | — | — | 273,363,635 | 273,364 | — | — |
| Issuance of common stock for conversion of preferred stock and dividends | (273,364,026) | (273,365) | (390) | (1) | — | — | (273,363,636) | (273,364) | — | — |
| Balance, June 30, 2023 | 1,574,189 | $1,574 | 1,036 | $1 | 1,210,056 | $1,210 | 363,097 | $363 | — | $— |
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Redemption Rights
The shares of Preferred Stock arenot subject to mandatory redemption.
The Series C Preferred Stock and Series D Preferred Stock are voluntarily redeemable by the Company in accordance with the following schedule, provided that the issuance of shares of common stock issuable upon conversion has been registered and the registration statement remains effective:
Year1: No Redemption
Year2: Redemption at 120% of the Redemption Price
Year3: Redemption at 115% of the Redemption Price
Year4: Redemption at 110% of the Redemption Price
Year5: Redemption at 105% of the Redemption Price
Year6 and thereafter: Redemption at 100% of the Redemption Price
The Series C Preferred Stock and Series D Preferred Stock are redeemable by the Company for a Redemption price per share equal to the Issue Price ( $8.84 for Series C Preferred Stock and $0.4379 for remaining Series D Preferred Stock), plus all unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends on such share (whether ornot declared), provided: (A) the Preferred Stock has been issued and outstanding for a period of at leastone year, (B) the issuance of the shares of common stock underlying the Preferred Stock has been registered pursuant to the Securities Act and such registration remains effective, and (C) the trading price for the common stock is less than the Conversion Price for20 trading days in any period of30 consecutive trading days on the Nasdaq Capital Market.
Dividends
The holders of Series A and Series B Preferred Stock are entitled to non-cumulative dividends if declared by the Board of Directors. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock participate on a pro rata basis (on an “as converted” basis to common stock) in any cash dividend paid on common stock. No dividends have been declared or paid duringthree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024* and2023.
The Series C Preferred Stock originally provided for a cumulative 15.0% per annum fixed dividend on the Series C Original Issue Price plus unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends. On* January 13, 2023,*the Company and most holders of Series C Preferred Stock entered into a waiver agreement pursuant to which such holders irrevocably waived their right to receive any and all cumulative 15.0% per annum fixed dividends on such Preferred Stock, including all unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends.
The Series D Preferred Stock bears a 15.0% per annum fixed dividend accumulated and compounded monthly, payableno later than the5th day after the end of each month on the Series D Original Issue Price plus unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends. Dividends on the Series D Preferred Stock are payable prior to any dividends on any other series of Preferred Stock or the common stock. The amount of Series D Preferred Stock dividends accumulated as of* June 30, 2024* was approximately $0.5 million.
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The Company* mayelect to pay dividends for any month with a payment-in-kind (“PIK”) election if (i) the shares issuable further to the PIK are subject to an effective registration statement, (ii) the Company is then in compliance with all listing requirements of NASDAQ and (iii) the average daily trading dollar volume of the Company’s common stock for10* trading days in any period of20 consecutive trading days on the NASDAQ is equal to or greater than $27.5 million.
Liquidation, Dissolution, and Winding Up
In the event of any Liquidation Event, the holders of the Series D Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of the proceeds to the holders of the other series of Preferred Stock or the common stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the Series D Original Issue Price ($0.4379 per share in respect of the outstanding Series D Preferred Stock) plus declared but unpaid dividends (none declared but unpaid dividends on* June 30, 2024* and2023).
In the event of any Liquidation Event, the holders of the Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive, after full execution of rights of the Series D Preferred Stockholders, and prior and in preference to any distribution of the proceeds to the holders of the other series of Preferred Stock or the common stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the Series B Original Issue Price plus declared but unpaid dividends (none declared but unpaid dividends on* June 30, 2024* and2023).
Upon the completion of a distribution pursuant to a Liquidation Event to the Series D Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock, the holders of the Series C Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of the proceeds to the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock or the common stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the Series C Original Issue Price ($8.84 per share) plus declared but unpaid dividends (none declared but unpaid dividends on* June 30, 2024* and2023).
Upon the completion of a distribution pursuant to a Liquidation Event to the Series D Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, and Series C Preferred Stock, the holders of Series A Preferred Stock are entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of any proceeds to the holders of the common stock, by reason of their ownership thereof, $1.29 per share of each share of the Series A Preferred Stock, plus declared but unpaid dividends on such share (none declared but unpaid dividends on* June 30, 2024* and2023). “Liquidation Event” is as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation and, subject to certain exceptions, includes a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets, certain mergers, consolidations, and transfers of securities, and any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company.
Conversion
Each share of Series A Preferred Stock is convertible at any time at the option of the holder into 0.0046 (giving effect to the reverse stock splits – seeNote1* – *Description of Business and Basis of Presentation) shares of fully paid and non-assessable shares of common stock (rounding up to the nearest share).
Each share of Series B Preferred Stock and each share of Series C Preferred Stock are convertible at the option of the holder at any time into such number of shares of common stock as is determined by dividing the Issue Price by the relevant Conversion Price (in each case, subject to adjustment). As of* June 30, 2024*, there wereno shares of Series B Preferred Stock issued and outstanding. As of* June 30, 2024*, each share of Series C Preferred Stock is convertible into 0.002183 (giving effect to the reverse stock split – seeNote1* – *Description of Business and Basis of Presentation) shares of fully paid and nonassessable shares of common stock (rounding up to the nearest share).
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Each share of Series C Preferred Stock will automatically be converted into shares of common stock at the applicable conversion rate at the time in effect immediately upon (A) the issuance of shares of common stock underlying the Series C Preferred Stock being registered pursuant to the Securities Act of1933 and such registration remaining effective, (B) the trading price for the Company’s common stock being more thantwo times the Series C Conversion Price for20 trading days in any period of30 consecutive trading days on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and (C) the average daily trading dollar volume of the Company’s common stock during such20 trading days is equal to or greater than $4.0 million.
The Series D Preferred Stock is convertible at the option of each holder at any time into the number of shares of common stock determined by dividing the Series D Original Issue Price (plus all unpaid accrued and accumulated dividends thereon, as applicable, whether ornot declared), by the Series D Conversion Price, subject to adjustment as set in the Certificate of Designation. As of* June 30, 2024*, each share of Series D is convertible into 0.000047 (giving effect to the reverse stock split – seeNote1* – *Description of Business and Basis of Presentation) shares of fully paid and nonassessable shares of common stock (rounding up to the nearest share).
Each share of Series D Preferred Stock will automatically be converted into shares of common stock at the applicable Conversion Rate at the time in effect immediately upon (A) the issuance of shares of common stock underlying the Series D Preferred Stock being registered pursuant to the Securities Act and such registration remaining effective, (B) the trading price for the Company’s common stock being more thantwo times the Series D Conversion Price for20 trading days in any period of30 consecutive trading days on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and (C) the average daily trading dollar volume of the Company’s common stock during such20 trading days is equal to or greater than $27.5 million.
Voting Rights
The holders of shares of common stock and Series A, Series B, and Series C Preferred Stock at all times vote together as a single class on all matters (including the election of directors) submitted to a vote of the stockholders; provided, however, that, any proposal which adversely affects the rights, preferences and privileges of the Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock, or Series C Preferred Stock, as applicable, must be approved by a majority in interest of the affected series of Preferred Stock, as the case* may*be.
Each holder of common stock, Series B Preferred Stock, and Series C Preferred Stock has the right toone vote for each share of common stock into which such Series B Preferred Stock and/or Series C Preferred Stock, as applicable, could be converted. Each holder of Series A Preferred has the right to 1,000 votes per share held of record by such holder (this right will terminate on* November 5, 2024).*
The holders of Series D Preferred Stock haveno voting rights except for protective voting rights (one vote for each share) in cases such as approval of a liquidation event, authorization of the issue of securities having a preference over or parity with the Series D Preferred Stock with respect to dividends, liquidation, redemption or voting, entering a merger or consolidation, etc.
NOTE 10 –** LOSS PER SHARE**
Earnings per common share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income allocated to common stockholders by the weighted average shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing income allocated to common stockholders plus dividends on dilutive convertible preferred stock by the weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding plus amounts representing the dilutive effect of outstanding warrants and the dilution resulting from converting convertible preferred stock, if applicable. For thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024and2023*, outstanding warrants, convertible debt, and shares of Preferred Stock were excluded from the diluted share count because the result would have been antidilutive under the “if-converted method.”
The following table presents the reconciliation of net loss attributable to common stockholders to net loss used in computing basic and diluted net income per share of common stock (giving effect to the reverse stock splits – seeNote 1 - Description of Business and Basis of Presentation):
| Three months ended June 30, | Nine months ended June 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |
| Net loss attributable to common stockholders | $(87,360,817) | $(308,858,234) | $(281,187,675) | $(800,047,339) |
| Less: preferred stock dividends waived/(accrued) | (23,066) | (13,125) | (66,412) | 7,387,811 |
| Less: financial result from exchange of Series C P/S for Series E P/S (see Note 18 - Series E Preferred Stock) | (8,604,029) | — | (8,604,029) | — |
| Net loss used in computing basic net loss per share of common stock | $(95,987,912) | $(308,871,359) | $(289,858,116) | $(792,659,528) |
| Net loss per share | $(7.91) | $(1,114.23) | $(37.92) | $(5,544.35) |
| Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted | 12,134,899 | 277,205 | 7,644,049 | 142,967 |
NOTE 11 –** SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION**
The Company has incentive plans that are part of its annual discretionary share-based compensation program. The plans include consultants, employees, directors, and officers. The Company has been issuing new shares of common stock under the share-based compensation programs, and cash hasnot been used to settle equity instruments granted under share-based payment arrangements.
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| For the three months ended June 30, | For the nine months ended June 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composition of Share-Based Compensation Expense | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| CEO share based performance award liability revaluation | $1,415,059 | $2,256,603 | $(4,650,599) | $47,226,436 |
| Share-based compensation to employees and directors | 4,868,990 | 1,421,675 | 10,342,631 | 4,102,578 |
| Share-based compensation to consultants (equity-classified) | 1,681,508 | 903,264 | 2,954,081 | 7,367,107 |
| Share-based compensation to consultants (liability-classified) | 5,599,205 | 6,130,462 | 20,527,925 | 12,319,250 |
| Total share-based compensation expense | $13,564,762 | $10,712,004 | $29,174,038 | $71,015,371 |
Employees of the Company
Employees of the Company, including officers, are entitled to a number of shares of common stock specified in relevant offer letters and employment contracts and subject to the approval of our Board of Directors Compensation Committee. The total expense of share awards to employees represents the grant date fair value of the relevant number of shares to be issued. It is recognized, in correspondence with additional paid-in capital, over the service period. The majority of awards to employees are equity-classified. The liability related to liability classified stock-based compensation contracts with employees amounts to $75,000 on* June 30, 2024*. The Company has also accrued a liability (presented within "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" in the consolidated balance sheets) in an amount of $0.2 million (or 88,290 shares of common stock at market price on* June 30, 2024*) to compensate employees for delay with the issuance of common stock per relevant offer letters and employment contracts.
Consultants
From time to time, the Company also issues share-based compensation to external consultants providing consulting, marketing, R&D, legal, and other services. The number of shares specified within individual agreements, or the monetary value of those shares, if applicable, is negotiated by our Chief Executive Officer and approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. These costs are generally presented as professional fees within general and administrative, and certain qualifying costs* maybe presented as part of research and development expenses ($0.4 million over thenine* months ended* June 30, 2024*).
A part of these share-based awards is classified as equity and accounted for, similar to stock-based compensation to employees. Another part of the Company’s share-based awards to consultants is classified as liabilities, mainly if the number of shares a consultant is entitled to is predominantly based on monetary value fixed in the contract. An accrued part of liability, in this case, is revalued each period based on the part of the services performed and the market price of the shares of common stock of the Company until a sufficient number of shares is issued. The liability to consultants as of* June 30, 2024* amounted to $0.1 million. The Company generally practices prepayment for future services of the consultants by unrestricted shares of common stock. In this case, a prepaid asset is recognized on the balance sheet and is amortized over the period the consultant is delivering their services to the Company. These prepaid costs amounted to $4.3 million as of* June 30, 2024*.
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CEO Award Incentive Plans
The Company entered into a CEO Performance Stock Award Agreement, approved by the Board and by stockholders in2022 (“2022 PSA Agreement”) and a CEO Performance Stock Award Agreement, approved by the Board and by stockholders in2023 (“2023 PSA Agreement”). Under these plans, the Chief Executive Officer is entitled to share-based awards generally calculated as 1-3% of the outstanding number of shares of common stock, issuable upon achievement of specific financial and operational targets (milestones).
The costs (income) recognized within the line item "CEO share based performance award liability revaluation" in the table above represent both actual issuances of common stock under PSA Agreements and revaluation of these provisions for future probable awards. This share-based compensation is accrued over the service term when it is probable that the milestone will be achieved. The liability to issue stock (presented within non-current liabilities if the achievement is expected later than12 months after the balance sheet date) is revalued on every balance sheet date based on the length of the service period, the current market price of the common stock, and on the number of shares of common stock outstanding - until the shares have been issued or until the fulfillment of the milestone requirements isno longer probable.
As of* June 30, 2024*, the accrual for future awards under2023 PSA Agreement amounted to approximately $4.5 million. A part of this provision in the amount of $0.4 million has been recognized within non-current liabilities as the achievement and issuance of shares are expected more than12 months after the balance sheet date.No remaining2022 PSA Agreement awards are considered probable. Out of all remaining2023 PSA Agreement awards, all awards are considered probable by the Company, except for Vehicle Completion Milestones and Accelerated Development Milestone, which has been achieved (Mullen has acquired a facility with existing equipment that allows the Company to expedite scaling of battery pack production in the USA).
NOTE 12 –** ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES**
| June 30, 2024 | September 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Provision for settlement expenses and legal fees | $32,781,788 | $29,763,627 |
| Tax payables | 5,542,156 | 2,849,346 |
| Accrued payroll | 1,852,669 | 2,406,650 |
| Accrued interest | 1,751,479 | 1,548,724 |
| Refund liability | 652,200 | 652,200 |
| Dividend payable | 468,272 | 401,859 |
| Accrued expense - other | 330,100 | 3,988,382 |
| Total | $43,378,664 | $41,610,788 |
NOTE 13 - LIABILITY TO ISSUE STOCK AND ELOC COMMITMENT FEE
Liability to issue stock
The liability to issue stock on* June 30, 2024* (current liability in the amount of $4.4 million and non-current liability in the amount of $0.4 million) represents mainly CEO incentive award provision to be settled in shares of common stock upon the achievement of specific targets (current liability in the amount of $4.1 million and non-current liability in the amount of $0.4 million), as well as certain liability-classified contracts with consultants (current liability in the amount of $0.1 million) and other parties (current liability in amount of $0.2 million). The liability on* September 30, 2023* mainly related to CEO incentive award provision, seeNote 11 - Share Based Compensation for more details.
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ELOC commitment fees
On* May21,* 2024, the Company entered into the Equity Line of Credit (“ELOC”) Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Esousa LLC (the “Investor"), pursuant to which the Investor agreed to purchase from the Company, at the Company’s direction from time to time, in its sole discretion, from and after* July5,* 2024, and until the earlier of (i) the36-month anniversary of the Commencement Date of* July**16,* 2024, or (ii) the termination of the ELOC Purchase Agreement in accordance with the terms thereof, shares of common stock, having a total maximum aggregate purchase price of $150,000,000, upon the terms and subject to the conditions and limitations set forth below. In connection with the ELOC Purchase Agreement, the Company also entered into a registration rights agreement, pursuant to which the Company agreed to file a registration statement and any additional registration statements, with the SEC covering the resale of the shares of the Company’s common stock issued to Investor pursuant to the ELOC Purchase Agreement.
After the Commencement Date (as defined above), on any business day selected by the Company, the Company* may,from time to time and at its sole discretion, direct the Investor to purchase a number of shares of common stock that doesnot* exceed 20% of the trading volume on the Nasdaq Stock Market on the applicable purchase date at a purchase price per share equal to94% of the lower of (i) the lowest daily VWAP of any trading day during the15 trading days before, and including, the purchase date; and (ii) the closing price of the common stock on the applicable purchase date. The Company will control the timing and amount of any sales of its common stock to the Investor, and the Investor hasno right to require the Company to sell any shares to it under the Purchase Agreement. Actual sales of shares of common stock to the Investor under the Purchase Agreement will depend on a variety of factors to be determined by the Company from time to time, including (among others) market conditions, the trading price of its common stock, and determinations by the Company as to available and appropriate sources of funding for the Company and its operations. The Investor* may**not* assign or transfer its rights and obligations under the Purchase Agreement. The Company's right to direct the Investor to purchase shares is subject to certain conditions precedent, including continued listing on Nasdaq or another major stock exchange.
The Purchase Agreement prohibits the Company from directing the Investor to purchase any shares of common stock if those shares, when aggregated with all other shares of common stock, then beneficially owned by the Investor and its affiliates, would result in the Investor and its affiliates beneficially owning more than 9.99% of the then total outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock.
The Purchase Agreement* maybe terminated by the Company at any time, at its sole discretion, without any cost or penalty. From and after the date of the Purchase Agreement until its termination, the Company agreednot* to effect or enter into an agreement to effect any issuance by the Company or any of its subsidiaries of common stock or common stock equivalents (or a combination of units thereof), involving a Variable Rate Transaction (as defined in the Purchase Agreement), other than in connection with an exempt issuance as described in the Purchase Agreement. The Investor has agreednot to cause or engage in any manner whatsoever any direct or indirect short selling or hedging of the Company’s common stock.
As consideration for its commitment to purchase the Company’s common stock under the Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to issue shares of common stock equal to*$6.0* million divided by the lower of (i) the VWAP on the effective date of the Initial Registration Statement and (ii) the closing price of the common stock on the effective date of the Initial Registration Statement (the “Commitment Shares”) to the Investor. Half of the Commitment Shares will be issued upon the effective date of the Initial Registration Statement, and the remaining amount will be delivered upon stockholder approval of the issuance of shares in excess of the Exchange Cap (as defined above); provided that all Commitment Shares will be issued by the date that is6 months from the date of the Purchase Agreement. The commitment fee of $6.0 million as of* June 30, 2024,*per the Purchase Agreement, could theoretically be settled with 2,500,000 shares of common stock.
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NOTE 14 –** PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT, NET**
Property, plant, and equipment consist of the following:
| June 30, | September 30, | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Buildings | $49,979,359 | $48,081,466 |
| Machinery and equipment | 36,795,981 | 27,861,452 |
| Construction-in-progress | 7,860,376 | 5,180,642 |
| Land | 3,065,757 | 3,040,303 |
| Other fixed assets | 4,744,527 | 2,824,165 |
| Total cost of assets excluding accumulated impairment | 102,446,000 | 86,988,028 |
| Less: accumulated depreciation | (19,191,336) | (4,955,243) |
| Property, Plant, and Equipment, net | $83,254,664 | $82,032,785 |
During the year ended* September 30, 2023,due to unfavorable market conditions, a decline of the market prices of the Company’s common stock, and budgeted performance misses compared to the budgets prepared previously, we have tested long-lived assets for recoverability. The test was performed on September 1, 2023,by management with the assistance of independentthird*-party valuation professionals, using both the discounted cash flow method and the guideline public company method. The fair value of the property, plant, and equipment of the ELMS/Legacy Mullen segment (classified in Level3 of the fair value hierarchy) was determined on a standalone basis utilizing the cost and market approaches to value. The assets of Bollinger's segment (seeNote4* - Segment information*) werenot impaired, except for goodwill impairment (seeNote6* - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets*). An impairment loss in the amount of $13,519,492 has been recognized with respect to the property, plant, and equipment of the ELMS/Legacy Mullen segment, primarily construction-in-progress and machinery and equipment.
No additional impairment has been recognized in respect of property, plant, and equipment during thenine months ended* June 30, 2024*. Depreciation expense related to property, plant, and equipment for thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024* was $2,584,157 and $14,264,452, respectively ($1,680,595 and $7,050,864 for thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2023*, respectively).
NOTE 15 –** PREPAID EXPENSES AND PREPAID INVENTORY**
| June 30, 2024 | September 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Prepaid expenses and prepaid inventory | ||
| Prepaid expense | $3,333,391 | $8,850,311 |
| Prepaid services | 5,539,504 | 6,284,441 |
| Prepaid inventory | 12,424,986 | 5,063,965 |
| Customs surety bond paid | 2,600,000 | - |
| Prepaid trade shows | 139,937 | 2,731,352 |
| Other prepayments | 1,721,936 | 2,025,154 |
| Total prepaid expenses and prepaid inventory | $25,759,754 | $24,955,223 |
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NOTE 16 –** OPERATING EXPENSES**
General and administrative expenses consist of the following:
| Three months ended June 30, | Nine months ended June 30, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |
| Professional fees | $14,874,793 | $5,250,063 | $45,558,985 | $51,884,123 |
| Advertising and promotions | 2,552,524 | 985,763 | 16,188,946 | 4,746,032 |
| Settlements and penalties | 6,116,450 | 2,327,286 | 14,777,522 | 8,592,635 |
| Depreciation | 2,235,199 | 1,680,595 | 13,318,147 | 7,050,864 |
| Amortization | 873,476 | 913,061 | 3,503,631 | 4,433,035 |
| Compensation to employees | 5,242,229 | 15,133,141 | 14,462,043 | 52,147,116 |
| Utilities and office expense | 1,076,999 | 996,997 | 4,139,924 | 2,064,100 |
| Employee benefits | 10,331,649 | 1,140,917 | 12,713,521 | 2,759,607 |
| Listing and regulatory fees | 1,047,596 | 1,415,003 | 3,175,362 | 4,150,348 |
| Repairs and maintenance | 405,975 | 302,623 | 1,774,935 | 684,920 |
| Lease | 382,290 | 273,234 | 1,354,916 | 1,948,288 |
| Executive expenses and directors' fees | 281,984 | 73,759 | 893,895 | 363,825 |
| Other | 2,056,213 | 1,285,370 | 6,753,294 | 3,361,268 |
| Total | $47,477,377 | $31,777,812 | $138,615,121 | $144,186,161 |
The main portion of the Professional fees relate to stock-based compensation, seeNote 11 - Share Based Compensation for additional information.
Research and Development
Research and development expenses for thenine months ended* June 30, 2024and2023* were $54,486,237 and $51,188,991, respectively. Research and development expenses for thethree months ended* June 30, 2024and June 30, 2023* were $14,292,744 and $22,088,011, respectively. Costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development expenses are primarily comprised of external fees and internal costs for engineering, homologation, prototyping, and other expenses related to preparation for the production of electric vehicles such as Mullen Five EV, Mullen One EV cargo van, etc.
NOTE 17 –** LEASES**
We have entered into various operating lease agreements for certain offices, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, and land. Operating leases led to recognition of right-of-use assets, and current and noncurrent portion of lease liabilities. These right-of-use assets also include any lease payments made and initial direct costs incurred at lease commencement and exclude lease incentives. The lease terms* may*include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We have lease agreements that require payments for both lease and non-lease components and have elected to account for these as a single lease component. Certain leases provide for annual increases to lease payments based on an index or rate.
On* November 1, 2023,the Company entered a 5-year lease agreement for premises of approximately 122,000 sq. ft. in Fullerton, California, designated for light manufacturing and distribution of electric vehicle batteries. Base rent is $2.992 million for thefirst* year (and increases approximately 4% yearly), and additional operating expenses are approximately $715 thousand in thefirst year with subsequent annual recalculation. Security deposit paid to the landlord is approximately $1 million.
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The table below presents information regarding our lease assets and liabilities.
| June 30, 2024 | September 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Assets: | ||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | $11,787,983 | $5,249,417 |
| Liabilities: | ||
| Operating lease liabilities, current | (2,226,906) | (2,134,494) |
| Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent | (12,338,011) | (3,566,922) |
| Total lease liabilities | $(14,564,917) | $(5,701,416) |
| Weighted average remaining lease terms: | ||
| Operating leases (in years) | 5.23 | 3.98 |
| Weighted average discount rate: | ||
| Operating leases | 28% | 28% |
For thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024*, we recognized impairment of right-of-use assets in the amount of $30 thousand and $3.2 million, respectively (none during thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2023*).
| Operating lease costs: | For the three months ended June 30, | For the nine months ended June 30, | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |
| Fixed lease cost | $1,355,952 | $330,175 | $4,292,916 | $887,294 |
| Variable and short-term lease cost | 100,210 | 85,298 | 350,533 | 147,120 |
| Sublease income | (150,413) | (108,127) | (462,363) | (201,875) |
| Total operating lease costs | $1,305,749 | $307,346 | $4,181,086 | $832,539 |
The following table reflects the maturities of operating lease liabilities on* June 30, 2024*:
| Years ending September 30, | |
|---|---|
| 2024 (3 months) | $945,167 |
| 2025 | 6,500,102 |
| 2026 | 5,077,875 |
| 2027 | 5,029,859 |
| 2028 | 4,830,545 |
| Thereafter | 7,352,924 |
| Total lease payments | $29,736,472 |
| Less: imputed interest | (15,171,555) |
| Carrying amount of lease liabilities | $14,564,917 |
NOTE 18 –** SERIES E PREFERRED STOCK**
On* May**31,* 2024, the Company entered into the Settlement Agreement and Release with Ault Lending, LLC, under which the Company issued $3.0 million of, or 76,923, shares of the Company’s Series E Preferred Stock in exchange for the cancellation of 1,211,299 shares of the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock held by Ault Lending. Under the terms of the Company’s Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, such shares of Series C Preferred Stock, including undeclared dividends, had a redemption value of approximately $14.9 million.
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The Company has designated 76,950 shares of Series E Preferred Stock, generally with the following terms.
Conversion and Exchange. The Series E Preferred Stock is convertible at the option of each holder at any time into the number of shares of common stock, determined by dividing the Series E Original Issue Price by the Series E Conversion Price in effect on the date of conversion. “Series E Original Issue Price” means $39.00 per share for each share of the Series E Preferred Stock (as adjusted for any stock splits, stock dividends, combinations, recapitalization, or the like for the Series E Preferred Stock). The initial “Series E Conversion Price” means $3.90 per share, subject to adjustment. Based on this formula, each share of Series E Preferred Stock is currently convertible into 10 shares of common stock. If any shares of Series E Preferred Stock are converted, redeemed, or reacquired by the Company, such shares* may**not* be reissued and will automatically be retired and canceled and resume the status of authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock. The Series E Preferred Stock willnot be convertible by a holder to the extent that such holder or any of its affiliates would beneficially own more than 9.99% of the common stock.
Voting Rights. Holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to vote on an as-converted-to-Common-Stock basis, have full voting rights and powers equal to the voting rights and powers of the holders of the common stock, and are entitled to vote together with the common stock for any question upon which holders of common stock have the right to vote. In addition, approval of holders of a majority of the shares of Series E Preferred Stock, voting as a separate class, is required to (i) alter or change the powers, preferences, or rights of the Series E Preferred Stock to affect them adversely, (ii) amend the Certificate of Incorporation or other charter documents in a manner adverse to the holders of Series E Preferred Stock, (iii) increase the number of authorized shares of Series E Preferred Stock, or (iv) enter into any agreement for any of the foregoing.
Dividends. Holders of the Series E Preferred Stock are entitled to receive dividends on shares of Series E Preferred Stock equal (on an as-if-converted-to-Common-Stock basis, disregarding for such purpose any conversion limitations hereunder) to and in the same form as dividends paid on shares of the common stock when, as and if such dividends are paid on shares of the common stock.No other dividends will be paid on shares of Series E Preferred Stock.
Liquidation, Dissolution, and Winding Up. In the event of any Liquidation Event (as defined in the Certificate of Designation), the holders of the Series E Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive, prior and in preference to any distribution of the proceeds to the holders of the common stock, but subject to and after the distribution of proceeds to the Series A preferred stock, Series C preferred stock and Series D preferred stock, because of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the Series E Original Price (as described above), plus declared but unpaid dividends on such share.
Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, Series E holders, at their discretion, were also permitted to exchange, under Section3(a)(9) of the Securities Act, or any other applicable securities exemption, some or all of the shares of Series E Preferred Stock for an equal dollar amount of Notes (maturing in4 months) and Warrants (exercisable within5 years) under additional investment rights of the Securities Purchase Agreement. For more information on these Notes and Warrants, seeNote7* - Debt,$50 Million Convertible Notes and Warrants*.
The Series E Preferred Stock has been recognized at fair value of $8.6 million. As the Notes and Warrants conversion (exchange) option fair value significantly exceeded the fair value of the conventional conversion option, and the value of other rights available to Series E Preferred Stockholders wasnot likely to exceed this difference, the fair value of Series E Preferred Stock on initial recognition was determined based on fair value of the Notes and Warrants conversion (exchange) option, similar to calculating fair value of warrants issued under the Securities Purchase Agreement (seeNote7* - Debt,$50 Million Convertible Notes and Warrants*).
The difference of $8.6 million between the carrying amount of extinguished Series C Preferred Stock and the fair value of issued Series E Preferred Stock was recognized in additional paid-in capital and decreased losses per share (seeNote10**—Loss per share).
After the balance sheet date, on* July 8, 2024,all 76,923 shares of Series E Preferred Stock were exchanged for Senior Secured Convertible Notes with an initial aggregate principal amount of $3.2 million, or $3.0 million including the 5% original issue discount, and 1,150,416 Warrants (seeNote7 - Debt,$50 Million Convertible Notes and Warrants*).
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NOTE 19 –** CONTINGENCIES AND CLAIMS**
ASC450.20 governs the disclosure and recognition of loss contingencies, including potential losses from litigation, regulation, tax, and other matters. The accounting standard defines a “loss contingency” as “an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss to an entity that will ultimately be resolved whenone or more future events occur or fail to occur.” ASC450 requires accrual for a loss contingency when it is probable thatone or more future events will occur, confirming the fact of loss and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Under this standard, an event is probable when it is likely to occur.
Occasionally, we are subject to asserted and actual claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Company management reviews any such legal proceedings and claims on an ongoing basis and follows appropriate accounting guidance when making accrual and disclosure decisions. We recognize accruals for those contingencies where the incurrence of a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated, and disclose the amount accrued and the amount of a reasonably possible loss over the amount accrued if such disclosure is necessary for our consolidated financial statements. As required by ASC450, we donot record liabilities when the likelihood isnot probable or when the likelihood is probable but the amount cannot be reasonably estimated. To estimate whether a loss contingency should be accrued, management evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the loss.
The outcomes of our legal proceedings and other contingencies are inherently unpredictable, subject to significant uncertainties. They could be material to our operating results and cash flows for a particular period. At least quarterly, we evaluate developments in our legal proceedings and other contingencies that could affect the amount of liability, including amounts over any previous accruals and reasonably possible losses disclosed, and make adjustments and changes to our accruals and disclosures as appropriate. For the matters we disclose that donot include an estimate of the amount of loss or range of losses, such an estimate isnot possible or is immaterial, and we* maybe unable to estimate the possible loss or range of losses that could potentially result from the application of non-monetary remedies. Until the final resolution of such matters, if any of our estimates and assumptions change or prove to have been incorrect, we may*experience losses over the amounts recorded, which could have a material effect on our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Information regarding our legal proceedings is contained inNote19**—Contingencies and Claims of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of our Annual Report on Form10-K for the year ended* September 30, 2023.Other than as set forth herein, there areno* additional updates to the legal proceedings involving the Company and/or its subsidiaries.
TOA Trading LLC Litigation
On* April 8, 2022,*TOA Trading LLC and Munshibari LLC (“Plaintiffs”) filed a complaint against the Company and Mullen Technologies, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Plaintiffs bring claims for breach of contract, or unjust enrichment, related to an unpaid alleged finder’s fee in connection with a merger, and seek damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, as well as an award of reasonable fees and expenses.
During* Mayand June 2024,*the Company fully settled the matter for a cash payment of $537,500 and stock-based payments valued at $537,500.
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The GEM Group
On* September 21, 2021,the GEM Group filed an arbitration demand and statement of claim with the American Arbitration Association against Mullen, seeking declaratory relief and damages. On August 3, 2023,the arbitrator ordered Mullen to deposit $7,000,000 into an interest-bearing escrow account with a commercial bank or brokerage firm. That amount was released to the GEM Group in May 2024.*
On* November 17, 2023,the arbitrator issued the Partial Final Award on Liability, finding that Mullen and Mullen Technologies, Inc. (“MTI”) had repudiated and breached the securities purchase agreement and a related agreement (the “GEM Agreements”). On December 28, 2023,*Mullen and MTI filed a complaint against the GEM Group and Christopher F. Brown in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleging, among other things, that the GEM Group and Mr. Brown engaged in an unlawful securities transaction under the federal securities laws by entering into the GEM Agreements while the GEM Group was operating as an unregistered dealer. The complaint seeks an order declaring, among other things, that the GEM Agreements are void ab initio.
On* January 24, 2024,the arbitrator ordered Mullen to deposit an additional $24,114,921 into escrow on or before March 9, 2024.The GEM Group moved to the United States District Court to confirm thatsecond* interim order. On* January 29, 2024,the parties completed the briefing on the issues of damages and allocation. On April 8, 2024,*the District Court stayed the action filed by Mullen and MTI against the GEM Group and Christopher F. Brown.
On* May 10, 2024,the arbitrator issued his final award, awarding the GEM Group $26,752,627 in damages for breach of the relevant agreements and $3,830,943.26 in attorney fees and certain administrative costs. On June 11, 2024,the United States District Court confirmed thesecond* interim order. On* July 10, 2024,*Mullen moved into the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for an order vacating the arbitration awards and denying GEM’s anticipated motion to confirm those awards.
The Company has paid $7 million and accrued additional expected settlement expenses as of* June 30, 2024.*
Mullen Stockholder Litigation
In re Mullen Automotive, Inc. Securities Litigation
On* May 5, 2022,Plaintiff Margaret Schaub, a purported stockholder, filed a putative class action complaint in the United States District Court Central District of California against the Company, as well as its Chief Executive Officer, David Michery, and the Chief Executive Officer of a predecessor entity, Oleg Firer (the “Schaub Lawsuit”). This lawsuit was brought by Schaub both individually and on behalf of a putative class of the Company’s shareholders, claiming false or misleading statements regarding the Company’s business partnerships, technology, and manufacturing capabilities and alleging violations of Sections10*(b) and20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of1934 (“Exchange Act”) and Rule10b-5 promulgated thereunder. An amended complaint was filed on* September 23, 2022,*asserting claims against the Company, Mullen Technologies, Inc., and Mr. Michery. The Schaub Lawsuit seeks to certify a putative class of shareholders, seeks monetary damages, and an award of reasonable fees and expenses.
As of* June 30, 2024,*the Company has created a provision for losses expected to arise from this litigation.
David Gru v. Mullen Automotive Inc.
On* May 12, 2022,David Gru, a purported stockholder, filed a putative class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Central District of California against the Company, Mr. Michery, and Mr. Firer (the “Gru Lawsuit”). This lawsuit was brought by Gru both individually and on behalf of a putative class of Mullen’s shareholders, claiming false or misleading statements regarding Mullen’s business partnerships, technology, and manufacturing capabilities and alleging violations of Sections10*(b) and20(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule10b-5. The Gru Lawsuit sought to declare the action to be a class action and sought monetary damages, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, and an award of reasonable fees and expenses. On* August 4, 2022,*the Court consolidated this action into the Schaub Lawsuit and ordered this action administratively closed.
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In re Mullen Automotive, Inc. Derivative Litigation
On* August 1, 2022,Jeff Witt and Joseph Birbigalia, purported stockholders, filed a shareholder derivative action in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, purportedly in the right and for the benefit of the Company as a nominal defendant, against Mr. Michery, Mr. Firer, and current or former Company directors Ignacio Novoa, Mary Winter, Kent Puckett, Mark Betor, William Miltner and Jonathan New (the “Witt Lawsuit”). The Witt lawsuit asserts claims for breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, abuse of control, waste of corporate assets, and violation of Section14* of the Exchange Act primarily concerning the issues and claims asserted in the Schaub Lawsuit. The Witt Lawsuit seeks monetary damages and an award of reasonable fees and expenses.
The Company has accrued expected settlement expenses as of* June 30, 2024.*
Hany Morsy v. David Michery et al.
On* September 30, 2022,Hany Morsy, a purported stockholder, filed a shareholder derivative action in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, purportedly in the right and for the benefit of the Company as a nominal defendant, against Mr. Michery, Mr. Firer, former Company officer and director, Jerry Alban, and Company directors Mr. Novoa, Ms. Winter, Mr. Puckett, Mr. Betor, Mr. Miltner, and Mr. New (the “Morsy Lawsuit”). This lawsuit asserts claims for breach of fiduciary duty, abuse of control, gross mismanagement, waste of corporate assets, and violation of Section14* of the Exchange Act primarily concerning the issues and claims asserted in the Schaub Lawsuit. The Morsy Lawsuit seeks to direct the Company to improve its corporate governance and internal procedures. Also, it seeks monetary damages, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, restitution, and an award of reasonable fees and expenses. On* November 8, 2022,*the Court consolidated this matter and the Witt Lawsuit (see above).
Chosten Caris v. David Michery
On* April 27, 2023,Chosten Caris, a purported stockholder, filed a complaint against Mr. Michery in the Eighth Judicial Circuit In and For Alachua County, Florida (the “Caris Lawsuit”). This lawsuit purports to seek damages for claims arising under Section10*(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule10b-5 promulgated thereunder. The Caris Lawsuit also seeks punitive damages. On* May 17, 2023,*Mr. Michery removed the Caris Lawsuit to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida.
No loss provision has been accrued regarding this matter as of* June 30, 2024,*as the Company can reasonably estimate neither the probability of the loss nor its magnitude (if any) based on all information presently available to management.
Trinon Coleman v. David Michery et al.
On* December 8, 2023,*Trinon Coleman, a purported stockholder, filed a shareholder derivative action in the Court of Chancery for the State of Delaware, purportedly in the right and for the benefit of the Company as a nominal defendant, against Mr. Michery, and Company directors Mr. Puckett, Ms. Winter, Mr. Betor, Mr. Miltner, and Mr. New (the “Coleman Lawsuit”). This lawsuit asserts claims for breach of fiduciary duty, insider trading, and unjust enrichment primarily in connection with the issues and claims asserted in the Schaub Lawsuit. The Coleman Lawsuit seeks to direct the Company to improve its corporate governance and internal procedures, and also seeks monetary damages and an award of reasonable fees and expenses.
No loss provision has been accrued regarding this matter as of* June 30, 2024,*as the Company can reasonably estimate neither the probability of the loss nor its magnitude (if any) based on all information presently available to management.
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Other contingencies
Accrued debt settlement
As discussed in theNote7* - Debt, section "Non-convertible promissory note (terminated)", on December 18, 2023,Mullen entered into a Debt Agreement to issue a non-convertible secured promissory note with a principal amount of $50 million, purchased for $32 million, reflecting an $18 million original issue discount. The funds contemplated by the Debt Agreement havenot* been received and, on* May 7, 2024,the Debt Agreement has been terminated. The $18 million original issue discount was considered a settlement cost related to a dispute. The costs have been accrued as of September 30, 2023*, and, since the loss isno longer probable, the accrual was released to decrease "Settlements and penalties" of the operating expenses (seeNote16* - Operating Expenses*) during thethree months ending* June 30, 2024*.
NOTE 20 –** RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS**
Related Party Receivable
Prior to its spinoff as a separate entity and the closing of the Merger on* November 5, 2021,the Company operated as a division of MTI, an entity in which the Company’s CEO had a controlling financial interest and in which he was CEO and Chairman. After the spinoff transaction and Merger on November 5, 2021,the Company processed and disbursed payroll and related compensation benefits for11* employees who provided services only to MTI and rent costs for facilities utilized by MTI pursuant to a Transition Services Agreement (“TSA”). The terms of the TSA required MTI to repay monthly the amounts advanced by the Company, with penalties calculated at the lower of theprime rate plus 1% or the maximum rate under applicable law charged on the unpaid amounts. The terms of the TSA didnot provide for any other payment processing service fee from MTI to the Company except the interest fee on overdue advance balances.
On* March 31, 2023,the Company converted approximately $1.4 million of these advances to MTI to a note receivable from MTI. The note bore interest at 10% per year and would mature on March 31, 2025,with a default rate of 15% per annum. By the end of the2023* fiscal year, the note principal had been increased by an additional $0.4 million. The Company incurred approximately $2.5 million and $2.1 million of disbursements on behalf of MTI and charged penalties and interest in amounts of approximately $238 thousand and $179 thousand by* December 31, 2023,and September 30, 2023,respectively. Remaining advances, notes, and interest receivable as of September 30, 2023* were presented within non-current assets of the consolidated balance sheets.
On* January 16, 2024,*the Company terminated the Transition Services Agreement between the Company and Mullen Technologies, Inc., and received a cash payment in full settlement of all outstanding amounts (including outstanding notes receivable, advances, and related interest and penalties) of approximately $2.7 million.
Director Provided Services
For thethree months ended* June 30, 2024*, our non-employee directors earned compensation for service on our Board of Directors and associated committees for*$106* thousand in cash and*$176* thousand in shares of common stock (for thenine months ended* June 30, 2024* - $331 thousand in cash and $563 thousand in shares of common stock).
In addition, the following non-employee directors were engaged in certain other consulting contracts with the Company:
William Miltner
William Miltner is a litigation attorney who provides legal services to the Company. Mr. Miltner is also an elected Director of the Company. For thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024*, Mr. Miltner, for services rendered, was entitled to $249 thousand and $955 thousand, respectively. Mr. Miltner has been providing legal services to us since2020.
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Mary Winter
Mary Winter, Corporate Secretary and Director, is compensated for Corporate Secretary responsibilities at $5 thousand per month. For thethree andnine months ended* June 30, 2024*, Ms. Winter is entitled to $15 thousand and*$45* thousand in consulting fees, respectively.
NOTE 21 –** SUBSEQUENT EVENTS**
Company management has evaluated subsequent events through* August 12, 2024*, when these financial statements were available to be issued. Except as discussed below, management has determined thatno subsequent events required recognition, adjustment to, or disclosure in the financial statements.
Additional investments after the balance sheet date
Pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement ($50 million convertible notes and warrants contract described inNote7—Debt* *above), the following transactions took place after the balance sheet date:
| ● | On July 8, 2024, as part of the additional investment right, an investor exchanged 76,923 shares of Series E Preferred Stock for an initial aggregate principal amount of $3.2 million, or $3.0 million including the 5% original issue discount, of Convertible Notes and 1,150,416 Warrants. |
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| ● | On July 9, 2024, the Company held a special meeting of stockholders. For purposes of complying with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d), shareholders approved issuance of shares of common stock (i) pursuant to senior secured convertible notes and related warrants, and any future adjustments of the conversion price of the notes and exercise price of the warrants, purchased pursuant to a Securities Purchase Agreement dated May 14, 2024, in excess of the 19.99% share cap, and (ii) pursuant to the ELOC Purchase Agreement in excess of the 19.99% share cap contained therein. |
| ● | On July 9, 2024, as part of the obligated purchases, investors purchased an additional initial aggregate principal amount of $10.5 million, or $10.0 million including the 5% original issue discount, of Convertible Notes and also received 3,834,726 Warrants. |
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| ● | On July 15, 2024, as remaining part of the obligated purchases, investors purchased an additional initial aggregate principal amount of $29.0 million, or $27.5 million including the 5% original issue discount, of Convertible Notes and also received 10,545,490 Warrants. |
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In total, after the balance sheet date, investors purchased an additional aggregate principal amount of $39.5 million, or $37.5 million including the 5% original issue discount, of Senior Secured Convertible Notes (due in4 months after execution date) and Warrants (exercisable within5 years).
Stock issuances after the balance sheet date and exercise of remaining warrants
After the balance sheet date and by* August 9, 2024*, the Company issued 24,082,192 shares of common stock, mainly upon the exercise of warrants and conversion of notes described in the section entitled*"$50* million convertible notes and warrants" ofNote7* - Debt*above, and in accordance with the contracts with consultants.
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Additional investments in Bollinger
On* July 26, 2024,Mullen Automotive Inc. entered into a Common Stock Purchase Agreement, by and among the Company and Bollinger Motors, Inc., a Company subsidiary, to acquire up to 467,869 newly issued shares of common stock of Bollinger Motors, representing approximately 33.37% of then outstanding equity ownership of Bollinger Motors on a fully-diluted basis (after giving effect to the conversion or exercise of any outstanding debt and equity securities or equivalents), for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $36.1 million in cash. This transaction mayincrease Mullen's part of the equity ownership interests on a fully diluted basis from60.0%* to72.2%.
At closing, $2.6 million of the purchase price was paid to Bollinger Motors and 33,048 shares were issued by Bollinger Motors to the Company. The remaining investment is subject to a financing condition that permits the Company to decide whether to allocate proceeds raised from various sources to complete any such installment payment. Through the date of this report, an additional $3.8 million of the purchase price was paid to Bollinger Motors for 49,119 shares.
Separately, for a period ofeighteen months following* July 26, 2024,the Company shall have the right to acquire up to 439,347 additional newly issued shares of Bollinger Motors at the same price per share of $77.16. Also, during thethirty-six* month period following* July 26, 2024,the Company shall have the right to purchase up to 100% of the total number of shares of Bollinger’s common stock subject to any Committed Third Party Financing at a purchase price that is75%* of the purchase price offered in such Committed Third Party Financing and otherwise on the same terms and conditions provided for in the Committed Third Party Financing. A “Committed Third Party Financing” means receipt by Bollinger Motors from athird party of an arm’s-length bona fide offer that isnot subject to any contingencies and for which suchthird party has fully and irrevocably committed, in the opinion of the Bollinger Motors’ Board, to purchase the common stock, equivalents or other securities of Bollinger Motors.
Asset Purchase Agreement with Mullen Technologies, Inc.
On* July 18, 2024,the Company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with Mullen Technologies, Inc. (“MTI”), pursuant to which the Company assumed a lease for premises located in Oceanside, California and all equipment and inventory in the premises, as well as staffing and other infrastructure for vehicle sales and repairs for consideration of$1.4 million. The Company’s CEO has a controlling financial interest and is Chairman of MTI, andone* of the Company's directors is CFO of MTI.
The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.